Reflexology is a gentle pressure therapy applied to the feet. Therapeutic foot massage has been practised by many cultures over many centuries. It was used for both therapeutic and preventive treatment.
There are precise reflex points on the feet which mirror zones in the body. A professionally trained reflexologist will work both feet using specific thumb and finger techniques.
The aim of reflexology is to trigger a physiological response in the body to stimulate its own healing response. The practitioner can establish which parts of the body are out of balance. By using the pressure therapy technique in that area imbalances are corrected and the potential for correct functioning is encouraged.
Reflexology is a holistic therapy, the body as a whole is treated not just the presenting problem of the client.
Ann Gillanders, Principal of the British School of Reflexology says:-
“The body is based on an electrical circuit and like normal circuits has negative and positive poles. Reflexology is a method of contacting the electrical centres in the body and has been used for centuries to create a smooth flow of vibratory energy through the body by contacting various points in the feet which relate to various organs, glands and cells.”
Reflexology acts on energy blockages by using pressure thus encouraging the flow of body energy unimpeded.
Reflexology, apart from its therapeutic value is extremely relaxing and generates a feeling of well-being. It is non invasive and conducted in a safe, comfortable environment. The practitioner will take a full case history which will include current problems and symptoms, if any. Your reflexologist is not qualified to diagnose illness, he/she will use your description of a problem and ask what advice or treatment you have had from your GP or holistic practitioner. Your treatment will by working both feet comprehensively address the problem you have attended with. Specific areas relating to an illness or discomfort may be reworked.
Reflexology can benefit all ages, it benefits the fit as well as those who may have specific complaints. As a preventive tool to maintain energy balance within the body it would be hard to beat. Try it and see........
Reflexology is beneficial for
Back Pain, Sciatica
Headaches including Migraine
Asthma
PMT
Menopausal problems
Eczema
Sinus problems
Psoriasis
Insomnia
ME
Digestive problems
the list goes on........ Reflexology is a complementary therapy and can complement any orthodox treatment you may be receiving.
Sue Jeeves MBSR CthA Cert Ed
Sue qualified as a reflexologist in 1997, subsequently she has become Reiki Master and currently is studying Indian Head Massage.
Sue was originally a teacher, beginning her working life in an independent girls’ boarding school in Somerset. She retrained in the 90’s to develop skills for teaching children with special needs, working on the outreach team in Accrington.
On leaving teaching work in the voluntary sector with Age Concern, CPRE a conservation charity, and undertaking research for the Community Council of Lancashire she has broadened her perspective on ‘Life, the Universe and Everything!!’
Complementary medicine had been a developing interest since teenage years when Sue’s father, Stanley met Eric Duncan a pioneering Holistic Therapist from Preston. Stanley was in touch with some of the great spiritual thinkers of the time and Sue travelled extensively in Britain with her father as he presented his work at Centres of spiritual development, meeting and receiving teachings from Pir Vilayat Khan, Sir George Trevellyan, Llama Yeshe and many others. She assisted Eric with administration at his clinic in Preston where her interest in becoming a therapist herself began.
Sue believes that meditation, study, music, especially sacred chant are helpful in maintaining a balanced outlook on life, and certainly complement a responsible, useful way of living, a way which she feels, can assist others.
At the Towngate Clinic in Leyland Sue is tailoring therapy to individual client’s needs and intends to incorporate Reflexology, healing and elements of Indian Head Massage into a comprehensive treatment according to each client’s requirements.
In her ‘spare’ time Sue enjoys walking with her dogs, photography, art and music, being a singer and musician. She also gives Slide-shows and talks to clubs and societies.
All text and images © 2006 The Sanctuary of Healing