All About Reflexology

There is enough evidence to suggest that Reflexology was an ancient therapy used by most of the ancient cultures, including Egypt, China, Russia and Japan.  No one really knows how old reflexology is, although there is substantial evidence to suggest that it may have been used as far back as 5,000 years.

The professional practice of reflexology has been recognised by China, Denmark, Japan, and the United Kingdom and integrated into the mainstream provision of their health care.  China, has accepted reflexology as a means of preventing and curing diseases and preserving health.  More than three hundred, research studies have shown that chronic conditions seem to respond especially well to reflexology.

Reflexology, as we have it today, was discovered about one hundred years ago by American medical practitioners

Painful, congested, sluggish or overactive states within the body can be balanced and normalised. Thousands of documented case studies from around the world have demonstrated the benefits for;

• MS
• PMT
• Migraine
• Sinus
• IBS
• Colic
• Menopause
• Constipation
• Back/Neck/Shoulder Pain
• Sciatica
• Asthma
• Brain Attack (Stroke)
• Menstrual Irregularities
• Infertility

Stress – have you got your stress score?

Please do ask about any other conditions as studies around the world are “active” to find benefits to most conditions.

Prior to a reflexology treatment, it is important to understand how reflexology works and what you can expect from a treatment. If this is your first “ever” reflexology treatment you probably have many questions.

A reflexology treatment lasts about 50 minutes, longer depending on the age and health of the client, or if you are receiving your first treatment. 

At the first treatment the practitioner will give a brief explanation of reflexology and answer any questions or concerns that the client may have. 

A confidential medical and lifestyle history is taken to help assess the client from a holistic point of view.

You will be required to remove your footwear, only.

The practitioner will gently relax your feet and proceed with your treatment while you relax in a reclining chair.

The exact number of treatments depends upon several factors including the condition being addressed and the healing response of the client. A minimum of 3-4 treatments are recommended, however chronic conditions may require further treatments.

Reflexology can be very beneficial if you are pregnant.  On a physical level, any aches and pains can be greatly relieved, as can conditions such as heartburn and nausea, and on a deeper level, reflexology will help you, and of course the baby, to feel nurtured and supported.  In fact regular treatments during pregnancy can improve the quality of both the pregnancy and the birth.  The reflexologist will give gentle stimulation of certain points and particularly take great care around the reproductive areas.

Children find reflexology a great benefit, with very quick results.  They are often more immediately responsive to treatments, as children are more open to the healing process, this is because they are less rigid in their ideas and ways.
Young babies’ feet are gently stroked as this will probably be all that is needed, as babies’ feet are sensitive.  Treatments for children and babies will be shorter, partly because it takes less time to cover the reflexes of small feet, and partly because most children will find an hour too long to stay still! 

Reflexology for Athletes
Presented by Julian Wait
Port Adelaide Magpies League Player 2006

Reflexology combined with sports Massage has been written about since the 1980's

Reflexology can be useful in many situations, not just for painful feet. 
There are painful conditions, which can not be treated with local massage.
For example; pains in the neck and lower back.  (Pelvis/Groin injuries)
Treating such areas via reflexes in the feet is safe and can often give considerable relief.
Diarrhoea and constipation caused by stress in competing sports people may respond well to reflexology.

An athlete aims to prevent injury, condition muscle, and enhance performance.

Most common injuries in football are;

• Hamstrings
• Muscle strain
• Muscle tightness
• Muscle soreness
• Knee
• Shoulder
• Back
• Ankle
• Groin

 

I would encourage all professional reflexologists to consider working with athletes

Regards, Julian Wait

Hand and Foot reflexology are highly recommended as a self-help treatment owing to it's excellent therapeutic value and convenience. Refelxology, is taught on a one to one basis or in a group environment.

You will have a profound healing tool you can draw on for the rest of your life.

Contact Patricia Now.