Reflexology
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a way of gently accessing the whole body, via reflexes mapped on the feet, hands, and face. As a Gentle Touch Reflexologist I apply light pressure and movements to these reflexes to both assess and then to bring back into balance, encouraging self-healing for the whole body and whole person. It’s super relaxing too, many people feel they go into that lovely state half way between awake and sleep, this is deep relaxation and the state very conducive to healing.
Where did reflexology originate?
Ancient civilizations have had forms of reflexology for thousands of years; more recently and in the West reflexology has become more refined, and requiring a lighter more comfortable pressure and is a wonderfully enjoyable as well as effective treatment. My Reflexology training was with Sue Ricks, founder of Gentle Touch (TM) Reflexology which provides a subtle, lighter yet powerful, touch.
How does reflexology work?
The reflexes allow access to the energetics of every organ and structure of the body.
Attention to specific reflexes reflexology encourages the body, mind, and emotions to heal.
A small amount of oil is used for foot Reflexology, and occasionally for the hands. The facial reflexology is oil-free and product-free.
Foot and facial reflexology work nicely together and, of course, your face is treated first and / or my hands are washed thoroughly if I work on your feet and then your face.
Reflexology doesn’t claim to medically diagnose, prescribe, or cure. In bringing deep relaxation the para-sympathetic nervous system is enabled to stimulate self-healing.
I always treat you, the person, rather than a diagnosis or set of symptoms and I’m guided by your own account of them so treatments are be tailored to your own healing needs.
However, to give you an idea of conditions I treat, here are some examples
- Stress, anxious feelings, tension
- PMS, peri / menopause
- Digestive distress
- Tiredness and Fatigue
- Migraine and headaches
Facial Reflexology
The face directly reflects our wellbeing for all to see; when we are ‘under the weather’ we may have a pallid, even sagging complexion, have dark circles under the eyes, and a creased brow for example.
Face Reflexology, The Dien Chan Zone method uses layers of charts – a multi-reflexology network - detailing every organ and structure of the body on the face. I work with these to map out a specific set of points and areas based on your wellbeing goals, during a very relaxing treatment over the face and scalp.
I will sometimes combine this with foot or hand reflex points.
Afterwards I will explain how you can continue to work on these points yourself, if you wish, between appointments to maintain and boost your return to healthy, happy, wellbeing.
About Dien Chan Facial Reflexology
The Dien Chan method was originally developed in Vietnam by Professor Bui Quoc Chau. As an acupuncturist he originally used needles but worked to find less aggressive or invasive ways to carry out the treatment.
Later he worked with Patryck Aguilar-Cassarà and Dien Chan Zone Facial Reflexology was evolved to bring it to the Western world.
Dien Chan facial reflexology is an oil-free treatment which means it’s easier to continue with your day straight after a treatment.
Aromatherapy for the Feet and Legs
Aromatherapy and gentle massage techniques can be especially useful for
- relaxation
- stress
- anxiety
- mild depression
- insomnia
- headaches
- digestive complaints
- balancing hormones
- boosting the immune system
- anti-inflammatory action which may help joint and muscle pain
- Water-retention
- well-being for the whole body-mind and emotions
- when you need some me-time and a mini-retreat
The big advantage of these treatments is that you stay dressed to enjoy the advantages of aromatherapy. You can enjoy wonderful aromas, while benefitting from the therapeutic effects of Aromatherapy and light massage.
Aromatherapy for Feet & Lower Legs
Massage techniques are used on feet, ankles and lower legs using a blend of oils mixed specifically for you. The treatment will gently stimulate blood flow, relax muscles and relieve tension to promote a sense of well-being.
We can use aromatherapy blends if you suffer with headache, digestive discomfort, insomnia, fatigue, for example; and local conditions like swollen feet, puffy ankles, arthritis, dry skin, or aching legs.
Aromatherapy for hands & forearms
Add a reflexology or mini massage treatment for hands and forearms if you wish.
Aromatherapy and Gentle Touch TM Reflexology
Gentle Reflexology combined with holistically blended essential oils gently and deeply relaxes the body, eases stress and restores balance; suitable for almost any condition.
Quality Oils
The Essential oils I use are organic, wild crafted or ethically harvested, and the base oils are all organic. I believe this is important as it’s kinder for environment (no pollution of the air or groundwater) and, as we absorb the oils into the skin and body, much safer for us.
Cheryl & Reflexology
I qualified in Gentle Touch Reflexology for the feet and hands in 1999, later in Aromatherapy for the Feet, and Hot Stone Reflexology, and more recently (April 2023) Face Reflexology.
Working with different teachers has enabled me to see and experience different perspectives and methods while maintaining my gentle approach.
Foot reading can also be useful to provide insight into your wellbeing as well as personality traits and emotional state.
You may also like reiki, crystal healing, and Bach Flower Remedies and crystal essences for emotional support which can be combined with your Reflexology session.
