To celebrate World Reflexology week this September, 24th to 30th, I’m offering some fantastic taster sessions – 20 minutes for £12. If you’re not convinced, let’s take a look at exactly what reflexology is
What is reflexology?
If you’ve never tried it, you might be forgiven for thinking reflexology is just a foot massage. It’s actually a system of therapy based on Chinese principle that believes that different areas of the soles of your feet correspond to other parts of your body. By applying pressure to these areas, it’s possible to relieve tension or remove blockages in the corresponding muscles and organs.
The treatment can be extended to similar pressure points on your hands, so if you’re a bit ticklish or prefer that your feet stay safely tucked in your socks, then hand reflexology is a great option.
Why try reflexology?
Have you ever heard of the winter blues?
Most of us experience low moods at times, but if you feel persistently low then you might be suffering from stress, anxiety or depression. At this time of year especially, there is an increase in those experiencing SAD, or seasonal affective disorder.
Our emotions don’t just affect our mood – there is a physiological response in the body. Stress causes our blood pressure to increase and releases a number of hormones including cortisol, too much of which can suppress the immune system, decrease your libido, cause acne and so on. And as your body feels worse, your mood decreases further.
During a reflexology treatment, massage and gentle pressure is applied that improves circulation, helping to remove the build up of toxins and excess hormones from the body. The increased flow of blood to the organs helps them to work more effectively, while the massage will also release tension in the muscles and help you to feel relaxed. Finally there will be a release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormone.
And it’s not just stress relief
Reflexology can be used to treat more than just stress. Here’s other ways it can help you:
– Relieve tension or anxiety
– Relief from back pain, migraines or other aches and pains
– Reducing the side-effects from medications
– Improving circulation
– Helping with sleeping issues or disorders
– Reducing the symptoms of PMS or menopause
– Poor digestion or IBS
– Reducing the pressure on legs and feet during pregnancy
What happens during a treatment?
Your therapist will ask you some general questions about your overall health and any medications you might be on. You’ll lie back on a comfy couch, fully clothed, while the therapist applies a gentle pressure and massage technique to the soles of your foot, or your hands. Treatments can last between 20 and 40 minutes.
If you’ve not tried reflexology before, sign up for a taster session now or introduce a friend and if they book in for a 20 minute Taster Session for £12, you’ll receive 10% off your next treatment.