What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a natural complementary therapy that involves the application of pressure to specific points or 'reflexes' on the feet or hands which correspond to parts and organs of the body.

Brief history of reflexology
Reflexology has its origins in ancient Egypt, as evidenced by a wall painting in the tomb of Ankhamhor at Saqqara. The birth of modern reflexology came with Dr William Fitzgerald in America who discovered 'Zone Therapy', which stated that parts of the body found in a certain zone are linked with one another via energy flow. The therapy was later developed by Eunice Ingham, who created the first 'map' of the body on the feet. Reflexology was brought to the UK in the 1960s by Doreen Bayly and it is practised worldwide in many different forms.

How can reflexology help you?
Reflexology helps the body to heal itself by inducing relaxation, improving circulation and nerve supply and by reducing stress and anxiety.

Whilst reflexologists do not claim to cure, reflexology has been shown to be effective for treating the following: (I personally have experience treating the following....)

• Musculo-skeletal pain, such as back pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Problems conceiving
• Arthritis
• Sleep disorders
• Sports injuries
• Hormonal imbalances
• Digestive disorders, including constipation and IBS
• Asthma and sinus problems
• High blood pressure
• Menstrual irregularities
• Stress related conditions.

Reflexology can also help reduce symptoms of conditions such as Fibromyalgia, ME/CFS and multiple sclerosis etc. It can also relieve side effects of cancer treatments (chemotherapy and radiotherapy), such as pain, constipation and sickness, and can help reduce tension and improve energy levels. See the Cancerbackup website for more information.

Who can receive a treatment?
Reflexology can be given to anyone at any age, including babies, children (with appropriate supervision) and the elderly.

What happens during a treatment?
On your first visit I will take a brief medical history, ask about your lifestyle, diet and your reasons for seeking a reflexologist. This allows me to adapt the treatment to your needs. I will also examine your feet, looking for any marks, hard skin etc. as these can reveal details about your current state of health.

The hands-on part of the treatment lasts for about 1 hour.

The number of sessions you require will depend on any current conditions and how long you have had them. You may also desire a regular treatment to help maintain your general health and well-being.

After a treatment
A session will either energise you or make you feel relaxed or sleepy, depending on the pressure and speed used during the treatment. Following a treatment it is important to rest and drink water to help aid the elimination of toxins, a process started by the treatment. I will also give you some appropriate aftercare advice. including useful websites, and key reflexes for you to work on your own hands between treatments.