Reflexology - more than a foot massage

When you hear the word reflexology, what comes to mind?

For some people, it’s relaxation. For others, it’s something they’ve heard about but aren’t quite sure what actually happens during a treatment.

And one of the things I hear quite often is:

“Isn’t it basically a foot massage?”

The answer is… not quite.

Reflexology is a wonderfully relaxing treatment, but there’s a little more to it than simply having your feet massaged.

So, what exactly is reflexology?

Reflexology is a complementary therapy based on the principle that different areas, or reflex points, on the feet correspond with different areas of the body.

During a treatment, I use gentle pressure and specific reflexology techniques across these different points on the feet.

There’s no need to undress, there are no oils covering your legs and you won’t be asked to twist yourself into any unusual positions.

You simply take off your shoes and socks, get comfortable and relax.

For many people, that simplicity is part of its appeal.

What does reflexology feel like?

Everyone experiences reflexology slightly differently.

Some people become incredibly relaxed within the first few minutes.

Others tell me they can feel themselves gradually switching off as the treatment progresses.

And yes… occasionally someone falls asleep!

Most of the treatment feels soothing and comfortable. You may sometimes notice that certain areas of the feet feel a little more sensitive than others, but reflexology shouldn’t be painful.

There’s also no need to worry if you’re ticklish.

The pressure and movements used during reflexology are quite different from light, tickling movements, and many people who describe themselves as having very ticklish feet are surprised by how comfortable they find the treatment.

Why do people book reflexology?

One of the main reasons people come for reflexology is simply because they need some time to stop.

Modern life can feel incredibly busy.

Work.

Family.

Phones.

Appointments.

To-do lists.

Thinking about what needs doing tomorrow while you’re still trying to finish today.

Sometimes having an hour where absolutely nothing is expected of you can be surprisingly powerful.

The Association of Reflexologists lists some of the potential benefits people may experience from reflexology as:

• increased relaxation

• release of tension

• improved sleep

• improved mood

• increased wellbeing

And while reflexology isn’t a replacement for medical treatment, it can be a lovely addition to your general wellbeing and self-care routine.

You don't need to have a problem to book

This is something I think is particularly important.

You don’t need to wait until you feel completely stressed, exhausted or overwhelmed before booking a treatment.

Reflexology can simply be part of looking after yourself.

In exactly the same way that you might go for a walk, take an exercise class, spend time reading or have an early night, a treatment can be a way of deliberately making space for rest.

And sometimes we’re much better at scheduling everything else than we are at scheduling that.

What happens during your appointment?

If you've never had reflexology before, we'll begin with a short consultation so I can find out a little more about you and make sure the treatment is suitable.

Then you simply get comfortable on the treatment couch.

You remain fully clothed apart from removing your shoes and socks, and I work through the reflexes on both feet using a combination of gentle pressure and specific reflexology techniques.

There’s no pressure to chat.

If you’d like to talk, that’s absolutely fine.

If you’d rather close your eyes and disappear into your own little world for an hour, that’s absolutely fine too.

This is your time.

What if I can't decide between massage and reflexology?

You don't necessarily have to choose.

Massage and reflexology offer very different experiences, which is why combining them can work so beautifully.

If your shoulders and back are crying out for some hands-on attention but you also love the deeply relaxing feeling of reflexology, there are combination treatments available that include both.

You can have the physical relaxation of massage followed by time to completely switch off with reflexology.

Sometimes the best answer to “massage or reflexology?” really is both.

September is all about reflexology

Later this month we'll be celebrating World Reflexology Week, so throughout September I'll be sharing a little more about this treatment.

We'll look at what reflexology is, some of the reasons people choose it and some simple reflexology-inspired self-care techniques you can try at home.

So if you've always wondered what those little maps of the feet actually mean, keep an eye on the blog and my social media over the next few weeks.

And if reading this has made you think…

“Actually, an hour where nobody wants anything from me sounds rather nice…”

Perhaps it's time to put yourself on your own to-do list.

You can view my available appointments and book your reflexology treatment online.

Your feet might be the part I'm working on — but the time is for all of you.