What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is the holistic understanding, study and practice of treating points and areas in the feet and hands that relate to corresponding parts of the body. Using precise pressure techniques to a system of zones in the feet (effectively nerve endings), a reflexologist may improve circulation, induce relaxation and enable homeostasis (balance) in the body. This encourages the person’s own healing systems to be activated to maintain well-being.
Is Reflexology suitable for all ages?
Reflexology is a totally natural non-invasive therapy and is suitable for all ages. It may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. Having completed a course of reflexology treatment, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments in order to maintain health and well-being.
Why Reflexology?
Stress has been shown to be very harmful to our health, therefore it is important that the body’s functions return to a state of balance following a stressful event. In modern times an increasing number of people are availing of this safe and natural therapy as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonising the body. There are many factors in life, such as illness, stress, injury, that can create a state of imbalance, a state of disease – but the body has a natural ability to heal itself.
Reflexology aids and complements, but never replaces, standard medical care.
In the field of Oncology an increasing number of consultants are recognising the benefits of using Reflexology alongside Cancer treatment. It is also, now accepted as standard practice in many Maternity units.
What are the Benefits of Reflexology?
- Promotes deep relaxation
- Pain reduction
- Improves blood circulation
- Improves energy levels
- Adjunct to mental health care (depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Eases side effects of Cancer treatment.
- Improves sleep patterns
- Eases digestive problems
- Rejuvenation of tired feet
How long does a treatment take?
A reflexology treatment usually takes between 50 minutes and an hour. The first visit may take an extra 10 to 15 minutes as the reflexology practitioner will conduct a full consultation. This will take into consideration your past and present health and lifestyle. The consultation enables the treatment to be tailored to your specific needs.
In some instances, it may be necessary to gain your doctors permission before treatment can commence.
All of this will be discussed on a confidential basis with your practitioner.
The Reflexology Treatment
As it is the feet which are treated you simply remove your shoes and socks. You will be invited to sit or lie on a comfortable treatment couch. An adaptable chair is available for those with mobility issues.
The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply precise pressure techniques to the feet treating specific points which correspond to all organs and systems of the body.
Following treatment, any significant findings will be discussed with you. As the effects of reflexology are cumulative, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments.
How will I feel after a Reflexology treatment?
Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation, sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is part of the healing process.
This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows how your body is responding to treatment.
In order to gain maximum benefit from your reflexology treatment try to rest and take things easy as this helps boost the body’s natural healing abilities. Increasing the amount of water that you drink following the treatment can help flush the toxins out of your system thereby aiding the detoxifying process.
Health Insurance Refund
This Reflexologist is a member of the National Register of Reflexologists Ireland. Membership guarantees accreditation by the major private health insurance companies, VHI Healthcare, Irish Life Health and Laya Healthcare. This means that clients who have a policy with any of these Health Insurers, may be eligible for a refund for some of their Reflexology costs, depending on their level of cover - this applies only to clients from the Republic of Ireland. When paying ask for a receipt for your Health Insurance Company.
