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What Is Reflexology?

Reflexology - how a reflexologist learns the map

Reflexology is a form of acupressure for the feet, hands and ears. Nerve endings are stimulated according to mapped out locations or ‘reflexes’, which relate to all the organs and systems within the human body.

People experience many benefits from reflexology including relief from painful symptoms, detox benefits, clearing of some long term health issues and a very powerful relaxation response.

Why Should I Have A Reflexology Session?

You can receive a reflexology session purely for relaxation and restorative purposes, or to assist with symptom relief if you have particular health issues that you are currently addressing.

For example, a session can be tailored so that specific reflex points are addressed relating to the organs and systems of the body, so if a person is experiencing back issues, more focus can be placed on working the spinal, neck and shoulder reflexes in order to assist with relaxation of the muscles in that area.

Can I Give Myself A Reflexology Session?

Yes, reflexology can also be self-applied.

For example, I started using reflexology when I found myself in situation with terrible toothache, unable to see a dentist over a weekend, and I discovered that working specific reflexology points on my hands and toes relieved the pain until I could get to the dentist for treatment. Invaluable to know!

Reflexology And Relaxation (R&R!)

A session by a qualified reflexologist is a powerful tool for relaxation and healing.

I have experienced other types of bodywork, but for me, reflexology is the most relaxing and yet energizing treatment that I have experienced…in other words, it feels really, really good!

Reflexology As A Personal Energy Practice?

Reflexology is also a vibrational treatment…meaning that it assists in the flow of ‘chi’ or body energy throughout the body, often helping to release stuck energy or encourage freer flow of energy.

The main focus of a reflexology session is to assist the client towards ‘homeostasis’ or healthy balance.

The art of the practitioner comes into play here, in setting up a relaxing environment, using appropriate equipment such as a comfortable massage table or zero-gravity chair (I use the chair), adding relaxing massage-type movements to accompany the flow of work on the reflexology points, and complimenting the reflexology session with use of appropriate high grade therapeutic oils.

IMHO, please note, a reflexology session and a foot massage are two very different things, both useful and wonderful, but both with different outcomes in mind.

Reflexology, An Art And A Science

Having your feet cradled, wrapped and oils applied is very relaxing during a reflexology session!

Setting the intention for a reflexology session is the part I consider to be an art.

Creating a relationship with a client, working with their body energy through the feet in order to bring about the healthy balance that is appropriate for them at this time, allowing them to relax and forget their troubles in an atmosphere of trust are all valuable – yet intangible benefits.

Learning and knowing the correct amount of pressure to apply to points for each client in each area is also part of the art, and one of the greatest gifts an experienced reflexologist can give to their clientele. Leaving the client with an extended sense of well-being and a sense of ‘walking on air’ are two of the other benefits of reflexology, which may not be apparent to a person until they experience a reflexology session.

As for the science of reflexology treatments, we are beginning to learn that reflexology provides scientifically measurable benefits for clients, from the simple provision of a strong relaxation response to encourage a heart healthy state, through to symptom relief before and after surgery, a reduction in the requirement of pain-reducing drugs and a clearing of toxins and excess lymph from the feet and hands. Plus, did I mention that reflexology feels really, really good? )

Book a reflexology session using the New World Energetics approach with Sarah Lawrence Hinson