What is reflexology?

Reflexology is an ancient natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears which correspond to every muscle, joint, gland and organ of the body. By applying pressure on specific reflex points a Reflexologist can stimulate the corresponding organs or glands, thus helping to restore normal functioning of the various systems of the body. Reflexology aims to improve your health by reducing tension, inducing deep relaxation and increasing circulation.

How does Reflexology work?

When a reflexologist acupresses (applies pressure with his/her fingers) specific points on the hands or feet, this excites the nerve endings, sending an electric impulse to the particular organ, gland or part of the body this particular nerve serves. Reflexology thus works through the “autonomic nervous system”, and the effect can be compared to that of an internal massage. Reflexology is also known to stimulate the release of endorphins (feel good hormones) in the body.

When can Reflexology help me?

Because Reflexology is safe for most people at any age and has no negative side-effects, it is an ideal therapy which can help relieve numerous chronic and stress-related issues. You may try reflexology to help:

• Relieve stress and tension
• Promote deep relaxation
• Improve sleep
• Relieve pain, headaches, migraines
• Relieve anxiety, improve mood
• Relieve digestive problems
• Relieve PMS, symptoms of menopause
• Improve cardio-vascular and lymphatic circulation
• Boost immune system
• Increase energy level
• Help body restore its natural balance (homeostasis)
• Whiplash
• Plantar fasciitis, sciatica
• Relieve chronic foot pain

Is Reflexology right for You?

Reflexology stands alone and separate from other therapies. However, it may enhance and/or complement other therapies. It is ideal prior to osteopathic and chiropractic treatments or physiotherapy, as well as pre- and post surgery.

Are there any contraindications?

Reflexology is basically safe for everyone at any age and has no negative side effects. If, however, you have any of the following, talk to your reflexologist and/or doctor first. In some instances, it may be better to postpone reflexology treatments to a later date:

Pregnancy (1^st trimester); breast and/or lymphatic cancers; infectious diseases; plantar warts; severe bruises; open wounds; inflammation; fever; swelling; phlebitis; varicose veins; broken bones.

Reflexologists are taught to work with care and respect in accordance with the level of health, wellbeing and age of the client. Our main goal is always to relax the person receiving.

What can I expect during a Reflexology session?

At your first visit, I will ask you to fill out a confidential health questionnaire. The more your reflexologist knows about your health history, the better she can tailor the treatment sessions to your needs. I will then ask you to lie down fully dressed on a massage table or sit in an anti-gravity chair. You need only remove your shoes and socks. In the case of Hand reflexology, just sit back and relax. I then begin the session by doing some relaxation techniques on the foot, which are designed to “warm up” the areas to be worked on and will then work specific points in a methodical way, adapting the pressure to your comfort level. It is very common for clients to fall asleep during their reflexology session, and most people feel deeply relaxed and grounded following their treatment.

How long is a typical session?

Most sessions usually last about an hour, but can be shorter, in the case of the sick, the elderly or the young. Some sessions, such as a combined hand-foot reflexology session, or those involving a prior foot soak, last up to 90 minutes.

How old is Reflexology?

In some older cultures, such as Egypt, China, Peru and some native Indian cultures of North America, Reflexology has been around for 3000 – 4000 years. There exists a well known pictograph of healers doing hand and foot pressure techniques on receivers in some Egyptian pyramids. In western cultures reflexology has been around for about 100 years. An ear, nose and throat specialist, Dr. William Fitzgerald, studied anaesthetic techniques by using pressure points on the hands and feet and brought the knowledge to America. Eunice Ingham followed in his footsteps, elaborating on the points of the feet and hands, and developing a detailed chart mapping the related organs and body parts found in each foot. Variations of this chart are found throughout the world.

Can I work on my own hands or feet?

Absolutely. I often give my clients “homework”, so that they can work on certain points at home between two appointments, and for sporadic treatment of some aches and pains. Our health is at our finger tips!

Is there any scientific research supporting Reflexology?

The body of research on reflexology, especially in countries such as Denmark, the U.K. and China, where Reflexology is very popular and part of the medical mainstream, is increasing. At least one hospital in Switzerland offers Reflexology in its dialysis unit. In Denmark, reflexology is the prime complementary alternative therapy of choice. In the U.K., reflexology has been around since the 50′s and is integrated into palliative care hospices, hospitals, maternity centers and seniors residences.

How do I know whether a Reflexologist is well-qualified?

Ask your reflexologist if he or she is a member of a recognized association such as the Reflexology Association of Canada (RAC), which has set standards and a code of ethics and conduct for its members. RAC was established in 1976 and represents reflexologists from coast to coast. Also, check whether he/she is registered in an ongoing training program, such as RCRT, which require a certain number of hours to be completed in continuing education.

Check the Reflexology Association of Canada’s website www.reflexologycanada.ca, or www.reflexquebec.com for a list of certified reflexologists.