Getting the most from your reflexology treatment
Your reflexology session is completely tailored to you. No formulaic treatment or set routines. So how can you get the most out of your visit? Prior to your first appointment you will have already completed and submitted your consultation form online. Before your actual hands-on reflexology begins, Jan will have a short chat with you covering the information you supplied on your form. This is also your opportunity to discuss your aims and goals that you would like to gain from your treatment. Following your consultation and initial reflexology session, Jan will build your personal, holistic treatment plan for your following visits.
In order to gain the most benefit from each of your sessions, the brief opening chat is your chance to discuss any changes you wish to be considered. This may include a new health concern or life-pressure which may mean a refocus to your existing reflexology plan. Of course, any information you give is completely confidential and securely stored.
A Reflexologist is a holistic practitioner, meaning they aim to treat the whole person, not just focusing on specific conditions. This is the reason you are asked to complete a medical history and lifestyle questionnaire prior to your first session; and why ongoing communication is so important.
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Will it hurt?The pressure is firm in most cases but it shouldn’t hurt. You may also feel discomfort on reflexes that are out of balance or congested. We will work together to ensure that the pressure is both comfortable and effective for you.
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I’m ticklish. Will I be able to have reflexology?Yes. Reflexology involves a degree of pressure and most clients are able to accept this without problems. If, however, your feet are still too sensitive we can continue with another method such as hand reflexology.
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Is reflexology the same as a foot massage?No. Reflexology uses precise techniques and protocols to stimulate reflexes which correspond to the organs and systems of the body. It is a complementary therapy that can be used alongside standard healthcare to promote natural healing, relaxation and restore balance to the whole body.
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What should I wear?Please wear loose, comfortable clothing so that you can gain maximum relaxation. It is helpful if you are able to roll up trousers to the knee.
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What information will I need to give?In order to gain the most from your reflexology treatment, you will be required to give basic information about your medical history and lifestyle. In some instances, reflexology may not be appropriate for you so this is an important part of the consultation process. You can be confident that this information is kept strictly confidential in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Please see the Privacy Notice in Policies for further guidance on what happens to your information.
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How will reflexology make me feel?Reflexology helps the body to restore its balance naturally. Usually, after a treatment your stress level may be reduced and you might feel calmer and more relaxed. Following a few sessions you may notice yourself sleeping better and find your mood and sense of well-being improving. You may also find that other aspects improve too; however, this happens on an individual basis as each person can react differently.
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Will there be any side effects from reflexology?Reflexology is a holistic therapy aiming to bring balance to the body on all levels. The body’s own natural healing process may cause some mild, temporary symptoms. This is a healing response that occurs as the body eliminates harmful toxins. Some effects that you may experience include light-headedness, tiredness, increased mucus, increased urination, and heightened emotions. It is important to mention that the majority of clients do not experience any adverse effects from their reflexology.
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Can I have reflexology if I’m pregnant?Yes; you can have reflexology providing your general health is good, as there are some contraindicated health issues where reflexology is inappropriate. Many mums-to-be find it very calming and relaxing. It can offer many benefits such as reducing anxiety and improving sleep as well as offering time and space where you can focus purely on yourself and your growing baby. Sessions may commence from the second trimester onwards. If you have any concerns, please contact your GP or Midwife for advice before booking your appointment.
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Can reflexology encourage labour in an overdue pregnancy?Reflexology can allow the body to relax sufficiently and stimulate hormones to encourage the natural processes of labour to occur. This will only happen if the body is ready to deliver the baby. It helps both mum and baby to be in the best place for optimum, natural effect. Reflexology does not 'induce' labour as this is a term which requires medical intervention.
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Can reflexology be used to diagnose what is wrong with me?No. Reflexology is a complementary therapy which aims to encourage healing and reduce stress. It is used to maintain good health and well-being. Reflexology does not aim to replace conventional medicine. Please consult your GP if you are concerned about your health.
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How may reflexology sessions will I need?It will depend on your current health and well-being issues and potential results you require from the treatment. It is unrealistic to expect problems that may have developed over some time, to have significantly improved after one or two sessions. The speed of response also varies between individuals. For optimum benefit it is recommend to have 4 to 6 weekly sessions initially. This may then be reduced to fortnightly, and ultimately, monthly sessions to maintain good health and well-being. Of course, reflexology may also be used as an occasional treat if you just want some 'time out' to de-stress and relax. Include it as part of your self-care plan or purchase a session as a gift for someone special.
Reflexology Techniques
Foot Reflexology
Standard reflexology practice, stimulating reflexes on the foot to connect with organs and systems to maintain homeostasis in the body.
Hand Reflexology
As effective as working on the feet. It can be used if there is a foot injury or deformity. I will often use hand reflexology as part of a synergistic treatment, for workshops and to give clients ‘homework’.
Reflexology Lymph Drainage
RLD is an award winning reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet. The aim is to cause an effect on the lymphatic system in the body. It is a unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay.
Reflexology for Mental Health
The physical, mental and emotional benefits of reflexology make it particularly helpful for mental health related issues. Chi/energy balancing techniques, based upon Traditional Chinese Medicine, provide extra support either as a stand-alone treatment or used alongside standard reflexology.
Auricular Reflexology
Auricular (ear) reflexology can be used for most disorders and is particularly effective for pain relief and joint stiffness. Medicinal ear seeds (from the vaccaria plant) are used to reinforce a treatment between sessions and to provide a self-help option.
Fertility and Maternity Care
Reflexology techniques for balancing the endocrine and reproductive systems. It provides support for couples experiencing fertility problems and pre and postnatal care.
Limbic Reflexology
Limbic reflexology focuses on emotional responses and our response to the experience of pain. A specialist technique working reflex areas on the feet corresponding to the structures of the brain, largely responsible for filtering and responding to information from our external, and internal world.
Reflexology for Palliative Care
Reflexology can help with both the emotional and physical consequences of dealing with life-threatening illness. It can help to improve well-being, relieve anxiety and can often reduce side-effects of some medical treatments.
Reflexology for Menopause
Every woman and her menopause is unique. Symptoms may be mild or severely impact quality of life. Reflexology aims to support women in menopause, offering deep relaxation allowing the body to heal and repair, bringing relief from symptoms.
Reflexology to Aid Better Sleep
Insomnia affects 1 in 3 people in the UK. Too little sleep can be detrimental to cognitive function, cardiac health and mental health. Reflexology improves sleep by promoting relaxation, re-balancing sleep hormones and calming the nervous system.
N.E.P.I.P.
(Neuro-Endo-Psycho-Immuno-Pody)
Our bodies and minds are inextricably linked. NEPIP focuses on the nervous, endocrine, immune and limbic systems of the body and how the psychology of the mind adversely affects health and resistance to disease.
Meridian Reflexology
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), meridians are perceived to be a network of pathways conveying energy and blood (life force) around the body. Acupoints along the meridians are used in reflexology. The results of a treatment can be enhanced by incorporating meridian channels.
Prices
The perfect gift of health and wellness for someone special. Click here for more details.
Private health plans
CNHC (Complementary & Natural Health Care Council) registration and full membership of the Association of Reflexologists is recognised for reimbursement with a number of private health cash plan providers. Clients who are members of the relevant plans may be able to claim for the full or partial cost of reflexology treatments. Please check with your policy provider.
How to pay
Payment is taken at the end of each session.
Methods of payment accepted - cash, card and bank transfer.