PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION

Reflexology by Tanya Spencer

• What is Reflexology?
• Origins of Reflexology
• How Does Reflexology Work?
• Beneficial Effects of Reflexology
• Treatments
• Responses

What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a holistic therapy that incorporates a specific pressure technique, which is applied to either the feet or hands.

Origins of Reflexology
Reflexology has been used by many different cultures. In China a form of pressure therapy was used as far back as 5000BC. Records in India, date back over 3000 years. The Ancient Egyptians, Native Americans, Japanese and Europeans all had their own forms of Reflexology.

How Does Reflexology Work?
Reflexology recognises the 'Energy Channels' or 'Meridians' that run through the body and is based on the theory that the stucture and organs of the body are mapped out in miniature on the feet, represented by reflex points. By observing and working on these reflex points, the reflexologist can initiate a balanced flow of energy along the channels, to facilitate the clearing of any blockages in the corresponding body areas.

Beneficial Effects of Reflexology
This natural drug free therapy balances the body's circulatory, endocrine, digestive, excretory and immune systems. It encourages the elimination of toxins, releases endorphins (the body's natural painkillers), reduces stress and revitalises energy. Reflexology can be useful in the treatement of various conditions such as migraine, sinusitis, asthma, eczema, insomnia, muscular tenstion, sciatica, IBS and PMT. This amazing observational therapy is surprisingly accurate and is a relaxing way to stimulate the body's own natural healing ability.

Treatments
Reflexology is bast experienced as a course of six to eght treatments. A case history will be taken during the first visit, looking at your medical history and lifestyle details e.g. diet, exercise and stress levels. This is for a treatment plan which will updated on each visit. It may be helpful to confer with your GP, particularly when dealing with the long-term effects of physical or emotional stress. Advice will be given if required for self help treatments.

Responses
Responses to treatments are varied, most sense a feeling of well-geing and relaxation, some experience a cleansing and detoxifying process known as a 'healing crisis', A person may experience: cold or 'flu like symptoms, increased urination or bowel movements, feel tearful or lethargic. This is a transitory part of the healing process. It is important to relay this vital information to the therapist, as it is all part of the treatment. After treatments, the client is advised to drink plenty of water, eat lightly and get plenty of rest.

Tanya Spencer practices Reflexology and Reiki at the Haelan Clinic..

For Clinic times, contact details and information about the Haelan Clinic practitioners see The Practitioners page .

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