Reflexology is a wonderful complementary health therapy that promotes deep relaxation and improves physical and emotional wellbeing; reducing stress in people’s lives can be key to optimising good health and building resilience. If you have never tried reflexology, could now be the time?
However reflexology is viewed, there can be no doubt that what it does provide is a period for relaxation where the client has one to one attention and supportive touch in a caring environment.
What does it involve?
Reflexology is a touch therapy, which feels fantastic. It is based on maps that show different points and areas, known as reflexes, located on the feet, lower leg, hands, face, or ears that correspond with areas of the body, and reflexologists work on these reflexes. You can have a look at our reflexology maps at https://www.aor.org.uk/about-us/what-is-reflexology/
What are the benefits of reflexology, and what conditions can it help and alleviate?
Reflexologists are there to support you and promote your wellbeing. Reflexology acknowledges that every person is unique, and so it is not possible to know in advance how you will react to a treatment. However, people usually feel very relaxed, may sleep better and notice a feeling of improved mood and general wellbeing. You may find that other things improve too, but this happens on a very individual basis.
The only way to know if reflexology will help you is to try it!
We do not, however, diagnose, prescribe, or claim to cure. It can be safely used alongside standard healthcare to promote better health for their clients.
What happens at a reflexology session?
Reflexology is a very easy treatment to receive; at most you will be asked to remove your shoes and socks.
It is a very individualised treatment tailored specifically to you, so you will be asked a little bit about your medical history and lifestyle. Rest assured, all information will be kept confidential.
The therapist will then use their thumbs, fingers or knuckles to apply pressure to the reflexes on the feet and sometimes the lower leg, hands, ears or face, depending on the type of reflexology chosen. Some areas may feel tender when pressed, but this will pass. The general experience is relaxing.
The therapist will talk to you afterwards about what they felt, which may lead them to recommend further treatments to aid wellbeing.
How many sessions does the average person need?
This will depend on the reason for reflexology. Often, having 4-6 treatments can be beneficial, but you can chat with a therapist about what is suitable for you. They can be more specific for your needs. However, many people choose to have a monthly reflexology treatment to maintain wellbeing.
How do people find a practitioner?
There is a wide range of reflexology qualifications, so we recommend you look for a member of the Association of Reflexologists. Our reflexologists are highly qualified, fully insured, and bound by the Association of Reflexologists’ Code of Practice and Ethics.
In a nutshell, you are in safe hands with our members.
You can search for local reflexologists at https://www.aor.org.uk/custom/far-search/. If you are interested in reflexology, our members will be happy to talk with you, so give them a call.
What is planned for World Reflexology Week?
23rd-29th September 2024
World Reflexology Week is an annual event that occurs during the last full week of September to promote reflexology and raise public awareness worldwide.
This is a perfect time to try reflexology with taster treatments and events happening all around the world – to look for events near you, visit - https://www.aor.org.uk/home/world-reflexology-week/Where
Where to find more information about reflexology
If you would like to know more about reflexology, our website has a vast range of resources, including an interactive foot and hand map, videos and much more - have a look today at www.aor.org.uk/
Why not give reflexology a try – and see how it works for you.
