Reflexology

Modern reflexology is based on an ancient form of therapy. There is evidence of some form of foot and hand therapy being practised in China as long ago as 2330 B.C. and at the same time in Egypt, as depicted in the tomb of Ankmahor. The North American tribes of Indians are known to have practised a form of foot therapy for hundreds of years. There is some confusion about the true origin of this powerful therapy, sufficient to say that it has stood the test of time and has helped thousands of people to better health. The dictionary definition of a “Reflex” is “an involuntary or instinctive movement in response to a stimulus” or in the sense of reflection or mirror image. The reflexes on our feet hands and face act as mirror images of the body. 

If you have any sort of ache, pain, illness (emotionally or physically) etc this can mean that there is a blocked energy pathways in the body. By stimulating reflex points and zones on the foot, as well as the face, reflexology aims to push out that blockage improving wellbeing.  Even if you have no ailments or complaints, you will still benefit from reflexology as it works the body as a whole and will help to boost all the bodily systems both on an emotional and physical level. 

There are a few contraindications:

• Deep vein thrombosis or any form of blood clot
• Severe cellulitis is contraindicated for foot reflexology
• Contagious disease or infection (including active cold sores for facial reflexology)
• For facial reflexology, a client who has had Botox or facial fillers will need to wait at least a month before treatment. A client who has had facial surgery will need to wait at least 3 months. You'll need to leave up to 3 weeks after dental work
• Imminent medical procedures or tests (depending on the type of test being carried out)
• Pregnancy: although many reflexologists treat throughout pregnancy, and it is considered safe to do so if there are no complications, I prefer to wait until 36 weeks before carrying out a treatment. This will also require consent from a medical practitioner.
• Clients under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Washing your feet before the session is appreciated but don’t worry if you have been out and about on them as a warm hot mitt compress will freshen them up. Avoid alcohol and cigarettes, hydrate don’t and abstain having a heavy meal before treatment. 

If make up is worn for a facial a cleanse is part of the treatment to remove daily pollutions. 

Pretty much suited to everyone and can be adapted to your needs. 

We are unable to treat under 18 due to insurance. 

At your first appointment a full consultation will be completed before carrying out the treatment, allocated time will be given not to impact treatment time. 

Pressure point fingertip massage is applied to the whole area. 

It’s a simple non-invasive technique. The treatment should be relaxing, not uncomfortable, although the client may feel momentary tenderness or sensitivity on a specific point of the feet, which is an indication to the reflexologist that the point is ‘out of balance’ and needs a little extra attention to release the imbalance. Reflexology aims to produce a state of deep relaxation, helping to release tension, improve sleep, and increase your overall sense of well-being.

Although the treatment is firm but gentle, it shouldn't feel ticklish.

Between 45 to 50 minutes with a little reflection time. 

Facial reflexology is 60 to 90 minutes depending on if a facial mask id being used. 

After a reflexology treatment, clients should feel relaxed, sleep well, and have an improved sense of well-being. Occasionally people can experience a ‘healing reaction’ as the body responds to the treatment; this can include tiredness, a headache, disrupted sleep patterns or going to the toilet more often as well as flatulence. It is also possible that some symptoms like feeling emotional may get slightly worse for a short while, but all these normal reactions should pass in 24-48 hours and are seen as part of the healing process. 

Face - known to promote heathier skin, headache relief, clear sinuses, reduce muscle tension, increase circulation and hydration, improving skin and muscle tone leaving skin tightened toned and feeling plumped.   

Feet - known to promote deeper sleep, improved digestion, increased cell function. Breakdown of congestion, improved mobility as well as flexibility.  

Reflexology may leave you feeling thoroughly relaxed and invigorated with a sense of calmness and increased sense of wellbeing, to maximise and prolong the effects it's recommended to have light meals avoiding anything spicy as well as fatty foods not to put strain on the digestive system and that you drink plenty of water, avoid stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol, and try to rest after a treatment to help your body flush out waste products and get the best from the treatment. 

Most people feel that a course of 6-8 treatments weekly is beneficial, particularly if you have a specific reason for seeking treatment, however, everyone is different, advise about what you hope to achieve can be discussed so the benefits of the treatment work towards what suits you best. After the initial course, regular monthly sessions help to maintain well-being. 

A course of 12 sessions is recommended, perhaps twice to three times a week for the most optimal results. You will though see the difference in just one session if you’re not ready to commit to a long-term program. 

The award-winning Natural Spa Factory Bath 

https://www.naturalspafactory.com/pages/about-us 

No, reflexology is not a medical treatment and does not claim to diagnose or cure. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeing your doctor or taking prescribed medication or medical advice.