What to expect from a reflexology treatment

A reflexology treatment begins with a short consultation to determine the best course of action for the session.

Although a basic treatment is approximately one hour in length, sessions can vary depending on the services requested and specific conditions. Reflexologists will verbalize the nature of the treatment being offered providing clients with an understanding of the benefit of their reflexology treatment. Afterward, people feel relaxed, calm and even sleepy. Typical detox symptoms might be experienced as the body
rids itself of toxins and activates its natural healing powers.

If it is the client’s first reflexology treatment, a discussion of the client’s general health and medical history is important, as is the client’s health and wellness goals. Also, a brief description of what will transpire during the session is offered, as it conveys compassion on the part of the reflexologist and inspires confidence in their clients. If you have never experienced reflexology before, we will soon put you at your ease and will give you the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have. It is best to wear loose comfortable clothing so that you feel relaxed.

The treatment will begin with some gentle relaxation techniques followed by applying pressure to each of the reflex points. You may wish to close your eyes and relax or you might prefer to chat during your session, this is entirely up to you.

Your reflexologist will work its fingers and thumbs across the reflex points on your feet. During the course of a full treatment he may revisit certain areas of the feet and hands repeatedly to help balance particular reflexes. After your treatment, you will be advised to drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body.

It is generally recommended that you have regular reflexology treatments for optimal health maintenance but the frequency is determined by the client’s needs or overall wellness objective.
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Foot reflexology

Foot reflexology is by far the most popular form of reflexology practiced around the world. It is based on the principle that there are reflex points on the feet that correspond to every organ, gland and part of the body. For example, the toes represent the head and the ball of the foot represents the chest and lung region.

The treatment will then begin with some general relaxation techniques, followed by a precise thumb and finger walking technique aimed at applying pressure to every reflex area of the foot. A reflexologist will always work both feet as part of a full treatment. The left foot represents the left side of the body and the right foot represents the right side of the body.

Reflexology is not ticklish as a firm pressure is used. If a particular part of the body is out of balance, the corresponding reflex may feel tender or sore during the treatment. Generally people describe any areas of tenderness as a ‘sweet pain’ which is both bearable and beneficial.

A Réflexe Santé therapeutic full foot reflexology treatment will generally last up to 60 minutes.

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Acupressure

Acupressure massage techniques and styles use the acupressure trigger points. They vary in using different rhythms and pressures for stimulating the acupressure points and it can be quite vigorous, with deep pressure applied to each point for 7 to 9 seconds. Acupressure points have a high conductivity at the surface of the skin, and thus are also very effective. Meridian massage therapy improves flow and balance where the blockages are and effectively release tension, numbness, or pain.

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Hand reflexology

Hand Reflexology is equally as effective as foot reflexology however not as well known.

There are reflex points on the hands that correspond to every organ, gland and part of the body and by using the unique thumb and finger techniques on these reflexes, the body responds by relaxing, rebalancing and improving blood circulation.

 

The hands are not as sensitive as the feet and the reflex points are much deeper, however a hand reflexology treatment can be extremely beneficial.

Hand reflexology can be used at the start or end of a traditional foot reflexology treatment, or as a stand-alone treatment in its own right. It is particularly useful to use when a foot is injured or where a client is unable to elevate their leg.

It may also be used for self-help and is often demonstrated by the practitioner to enable the client to use reflexology techniques in-between appointments.

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Reflexology and acupressure

In recent years, reflexology practitioners have begun to incorporate the acupressure techniques into their work. Although reflexology is based on the theory of “reflex zones” instead of “energy pathways”, both treatments are based on the principle that working on specific points can bring about an increased therapeutic effect in other parts of the body.

 

Combining acupressure and reflexology techniques work in synergy to bring the body into balance and harmony. This enables the reflexologist to create a treatment tailored to individual needs and more effective than a singular therapy.

Reflexology and meridian therapy work synergistically to bring the body into balance

**While reflexologists do not claim to cure or diagnose disease, reflexology can be effective in relieving the symptoms of many disorders, and can complement your regimen of conventional medicine.