This week NEVE Wellness co-founder Laura gives us a fascinating insight into reflexology and how it can benefit our health & wellbeing.
Laura is a Level 5 qualified Reflexologist and offers a variety of Reflexology treatment at the NEVE Wellness Treatment Rooms.
What is reflexology?
Reflexology is a non invasive complementary therapy that involves the gentle and flowing stimulation of reflex points on the feet. It works to the principle that the body's systems and organs are reflected across the feet and that stimulating these reflexes will help to restore balance & allow the body to work at its optimum. Amazingly, the feet contain hundreds of thousands of nerve endings so comprehending that stimulating these has an impact elsewhere in the body isn’t all that hard to believe.
Is reflexology a new treatment?
Absolutely not, the concept of Reflexology has been around for thousands of years and evidence of its practice has been found as far back as ancient China and Egypt. The foot maps that we use today were adapted in the 1930’s by Eunice Ingham (thanks our Eunice!) . It's an ancient practice which is valued in many different cultures and is growing in popularity. We even now see the medical profession starting to recognise it more and more for its benefits in supporting people with long term and chronic conditions.
Why would someone go to see a reflexologist?
Reflexology can help with anything from supporting hormone balance, sleep disturbances, migraines, blood pressure issues, pain management or stress relief, just to mention a few. On a personal note, I first sought out the help of a reflexologist when I was experiencing menstrual cycle irregularities and struggling to conceive. I found that after 6 weeks of treatments, my cycle was more regular than it had been for years and I was able to relax more and generally deal with day to day stressors much better. I now go around every 4 weeks for maintenance treatments.
Would I still go and see a reflexology if I didn’t have specific health concerns?
Absolutely, just like you might still go for a massage if you didn’t have any muscle concerns. It’s great for relaxation and can still be beneficial. All that aside, it’s a beautiful treatment and I generally hear comments like, “wow that was an amazing experience” or “I’ve never felt so calm & relaxed”.
Does reflexology hurt?
No, although it works to a similar premise to acupuncture where you may feel some discomfort or gentle aching you’re very unlikely feel any discomfort with reflexology, the worst you may experience is feel some sensitivity in places. Sensitivity is is likely an indication of a slight imbalance so its good to let your therapist know if this occurs. The pressure is adjustable and is still effective no matter how gentle or firm so its best to work together to find the most enjoyable pressure for you.
Will I notice any changes after reflexology?
In the 24 hours after your treatment, it's common to feel tired or need to use the toilet more frequently. Some people occasionally feel emotional or teary. Ideally though you’ll just feel super relaxed and walk out the room feeling light as air.
Will you make other recommendations to me based on what you find from the treatment?
Yes, as part of your treatment plan we’ll work together to consider other aftercare that you might benefit from. It might be that you would benefit from other treatments or seeing another professional, we have group of trusted professionals we work with who we can sign post you to.
How can reflexology help with skin health?
More often than not, our skin's health or condition is a symptom of something else going on in the body. For example, poor circulation can make your skin lacklustre and dull, hormonal imbalances and stress can cause breakouts, poor lymphatic drainage can causes puffiness and stagnation, while acne and inflammation come hand in hand.
Reflexology is great at supporting your body with these concerns. A holistic approach, consisting of a good natural skincare routine, reflexology, healthy diet and hydration could be approach that works wonders for your skin.
Is it still effective if I have a one off treatment?
For sure! The power of rest & deep relaxation is very much underestimated and is something a lot of us don’t prioritise these days. When we’re rushing around, feeling stressed or overworked then the parasympathetic nervous system isn’t allowed to do its thing effectively and the body isn’t operating efficiently. In simple terms, your heart rate slows down, breathing is normalised, blood pressure lowers & digestion becomes more effective. All of these are basic bodily functions that are vital for good health and wellbeing. A single reflexology treatment should allow you at a minimum to relax enough to allow these things to take place.
What can I expect from the initial treatment?
You’ll be offered something to drink and we’ll start with a sit down discussion about your overall wellbeing & lifestyle and the things that are a priority for you. If you’ve never had reflexology, I’ll explain what you can expect the treatment to feel like and what the experience may be like for you. You’ll be asked to remove only your shoes and socks then you can get comfy on the treatment bed and relax with a warm snuggly blanket, the sounds of relaxing music, and the beautiful scents of our Neve Wellness products.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for my treatment?
Think about what your main priority is for your treatment & arrive wearing comfy clothes that can easily be pulled up over your shin.
I’m unsure if reflexology will be the right treatment for me – can you advise me further?
Yes, I’m always happy to help and would love to have a chat with you before you make the commitment. The best way to do that is to book a discovery call at a time that works for you.
Laura offers a variety of reflexology treatments and you can find out more about each one here. If you aren't local to our Treatment Room in Bedlington, Northumberland, you can find out more about Reflexology, and find a therapist near you at the Association of Reflexologist website.
