What is Reflexology? The ancient art of Reflexology has been around for thousands of years, its first pictorial evidence was found in the tomb of Ankhmahor at Saggara,  Egypt, dated around 2330 B.C. (see above) In 1913 an E.N.T. surgeon, Dr. William Fitzgerald introduced Reflexology into the west. He noticed that by applying pressure to a specific area of the body, he was able to anaesthetise a specific organ in the corresponding zone. For instance by applying pressure to the thumb or big toe, we are able to see that it helps to alleviate problems in the head area. In the 1930’s Eunice Ingham further developed foot reflexology by mapping out ten vertical zones on the feet (five on each foot from heel to toe) these helped to place all of the bodies major organs into the corresponding area so that the therapist could more easily identify areas of imbalance. How can reflexology help you? Everyone has the ability to self-heal, which is a natural function each living thing has. Sometimes we develop blockages or areas of stubborn energy that simply need ‘unblocking’ or need encouragement to clear. During a reflexology treatment, the client often relaxes allowing energy pathways to clear by manipulation of the reflex points in the feet. Depending on the length of the complaint, depends on how quickly energy is released, sometimes it may take many sessions to finally unravel the complicated knots we knit for ourselves. Do not expect your body to reach homeostasis (state of equilibrium) in just one session, though sometimes it does happen!

<bgsound src="media/01_Track_1.wma" loop="infinite">

Who can benefit from reflexology? Everyone! apart from those who are contra-indicated to treatment. For safety reasons, we do not practice on people who are in their first tri-mester of pregnancy, as sometimes if the client is prone to miscarriage or if the foetus is unstable encouraging the body to return to its ‘normal state’ can also speed up natural miscarriage.  People who suffer from deep vein thrombosis will not be treated, as reflexology encourages blood back to the heart, and may dislodge a thrombus causing heart attack.  Epilepsy as fits may be bought on by the treatment. Terminal illness may be helped as reflexology encourages the client to relax.  Following a course of sessions for specific illness, it is advised to follow up with treatments once every 4-6 weeks to maintain the bodies state of homeostasis, thus avoiding future imbalance.

What happens during a treatment? After an initial medical history check, the practitioner will begin treatment on the feet (please note for disabled clients who cannot lay on the couch, or have contraindications on their feet, this treatment can be performed on their hands. Clients who do not have these ailments are encouraged to have foot reflexology though, as hand reflexology may not have quite the same relaxation benefits as dozing on the couch!). The client can either lay down or sit on the couch during a treatment, whilst the practitioner manipulates each inch of the entire foot routinely to encourage healing. Small crystals (uric acid build up) are sometimes discovered in areas of the feet where there is imbalance in the corresponding organ/area. These are worked out by gentle manipulation.

After treatment Following treatment clients usually feel relaxed and sometimes quite tired they are encouraged to rest or sleep if this happens in order for the body to re-balance, as the client is usually undergoing a healing transition. Occasionally the client may experience what is known as the ‘healing crisis’, this is a transitory period of feeling nauseous, tearful or lethargic, sometimes they may experience diahorrea or headaches. Clients should be aware that this is not a common response, though the body must shed its toxins before healing can take place. In our experience, we have often found that the clients who usually experience  ailments such as headaches during illness or periods of feeling unwell are the same ones likely to suffer from the same healing response. However, some clients have gone home after treatment and cleaned their house, done all the laundry and the gardening!

N.B. (Post 24 Hours) All clients are strongly advised to drink plenty of water following treatment to encourage the healing process and to eradicate toxins. Eat light uncomplicated fresh meals and avoid toxins where possible such as alcohol, coffee, black tea and chocolate in order to get the most from your treatment.

Summer May-28-2011

Namaste! Summer is now with us after a rather cool and prolonged spring! Summer is the time of year for the Pitta dosha which is the elements of fire and a little water. On humid days we may find this dosha on the increase and therefore must be aware of the alarm bells ringing. As fire is responsible for transformation it is particularly associated with all of our major organs that transform. These include the heart and the digestive fire. Pitta increases at the hottest part of the day, so 1 p.m. is not a good time to have a heated discussion as tempers may rise! Remember to drink eight glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration, as this may result in kidney stones which are rather painful and unpleasant.  Foods to favour during this time are all the cooling foods so coconut is a good choice as well as fresh lime juice. All other citrus fruits are heating and therefore a glass of fruit juice is not a favourable choice if you are complaining of insect bites or heat rash / sunburn, this will just irritate them even further. Take time to relax to avoid high blood pressure and try burning either flower oils such as rose or lavender or my personal favourite sandalwood which has an extremely cooling effect on the mind and body. High pitta symptoms may include irritable skin, indigestion, high blood pressure, anger and profuse sweating. If these should occur, take my advice and cool down in the shade, a cool shower may also be welcomed. Pranayama is a breathing exercise which is also useful for balance and cooling. Generally all of my treatments are suitable for this time of year to help you relax, reiki is especially calming or a soothing massage using calming and cooling oils is also well received. Enjoy your summer, and feel free to contact me for any advice! Scott x

Read more...