Reflexology is a complementary therapy which aims to help relax body and mind, and improve well-being. Reflexologists use specific reflexology and massage techniques, applying pressure to reflex points on the feet or hands. Although reflexology has its origins in Ancient Egypt, China and India, modern reflexology is based on the Zone Therapy principle whereby zones and reflex points on the feet and hands correspond to all body systems. Consequently, the hands and feet can be likened to ‘maps’ of the body which can be used to provide a holistic treatment approach - working foot or hand reflex points has a corresponding effect on the entire body.
As the IIR (International Institute of Reflexology) states, ‘reflexology is a safe, effective way to better health.’
All types of stress, whether from work, our home lives, physical, psychological or social stresses, to name but a few, may result in our bodies staying in a heightened ‘stress alert’ response for prolonged periods of time. This can leave us feeling exhausted as well as impacting negatively on our well-being. By deeply relaxing the body, reflexology aims to bring the body in to a more relaxed and restorative state.
Reflexology is popular with people of all ages and needs. A full health consultation is taken before treatment to ensure the needs and well- being of every client is catered for, within a tailor- made treatment for the individual client. In general, after a treatment, you may feel deeply relaxed, have better sleep, improved mood and enhanced well-being. Other health benefits will be on an individual basis as reflexology is a holistic treatment, but may include relief from stress, anxiety and tension.
Research projects into reflexology and its benefits are taking place continuously to enable us to assess claims of reflexology effectiveness.
Two of the reflexologists at Revitalize, Paula and Rhoda have taken further professional development in very specific types of reflexology, including: