The effects of reflexology are unique to each person. It is believed that reflexology triggers the body's relaxation response. 

Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits in the soft tissues and imbalances from touching the feet, hands or ears. Reflexology gently nudges the body toward better functioning by improving lymphatic drainage and venous circulation. It stimulates the nerve pathways, induces muscle relaxation, and helps the body to balance itself.

Since reflexology treats the whole person, not just the symptoms of particular problems, most people can benefit from treatment. Reflexology is normally totally safe for most people, including those with certain health problems as pressure and duration is tailored to meet individual client needs. 

Reflexology can be considered ideal for:

• relieving pain

• reducing stress and tension

• acute and chronic conditions 

• relieving stress and tension

• improving nerve and blood supply function

• balancing the whole system (homeostasis)

• revitalising energy

• activating the body to cleanse toxins and impurities

• a preventative therapy 

• children and adults of all ages

Considerations are needed for babies, children, elderly and the very sick. In these instances treatment is of lighter pressure and shorter duration. If indicated, some clients are advised to consult their medical practitioner for permission prior to receiving treatment.

Specific conditions with reported benefits include

• PMS and other hormone imbalances

• Sciatica

• Sinusitis

• Digestive disorders

• Sleep disorders

• Anxiety and mild depressive disorders

A full session means working all areas of both feet. This can vary from 30-60 minutes depending on the style of Reflexology practised and wellness level of client. During a reflexology treatment the client may experience:

• a feeling of deep relaxation and the desire to sleep

• sensations of the body expanding and spreading out as it relaxes

• twitching or tingling

• warmth in the area of the body being worked on

• some discomfort in certain areas, however this will usually be brief, and may indicate areas of imbalance in the body

A course of treatments can vary depending on individual needs and is planned through discussion with the Reflexologist. Treatment takes place with the client sitting in a semi-reclined position on a professional couch or chair. Sometimes foot creams or powders may be used depending on the reflexology practitioner’s style.

Sometimes, directly massaging areas of muscle spasm and tension may be contra-indicated and too painful for a client, causing further muscle contraction. By stimulating or sedating the relevant reflex points on the feet or hands, relaxation can be achieved. 

Medical and complementary health professionals tend to agree that many of our health problems can be linked to stress. A body trying to function while under the influence of prolonged stress is less capable of organizing its defences against illnesses or repairing damage caused by injury. Stress can be mentally, emotionally, physically, or environmentally induced. Reflexology is primarily a relaxation technique, negating the effects of stress while helping the body to relax and balance. Through the relaxation process the body is more capable of dealing with the stresses placed on it by daily living and those associated with illness.