Whilst the art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn't until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as 'zone therapy'.
 

Dr Fitzgerald noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone. In the 1930s, Eunice Ingham further developed this zone therapy into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.  Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on the feet to help heal the whole person, not just the prevailing symptoms.

 Please click on the camera to watch a brief extract from a reflexology treatment.
 

Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium.  This gentle therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.  It has been shown to be effective for:
 

-  back pain;
-  migraine;
-  infertility;
-  arthritis;
-  sleep disorders;
-  hormonal imbalances;
-  sports injuries;
-  digestive disorders;
-  stress-related conditions.

Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe.
 

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions.  After you have completed a course of reflexology treatment for a specific condition, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments in order to maintain health and wellbeing.  Whilst many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress, at the same time many doctors, consultants and other healthcare professionals recognise reflexology as a well-established, respected and effective therapy.

With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important people take more responsibility for their own healthcare needs.  Reflexology helps us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level, thereby encouraging us to heal and maintain health in all areas of our lives.



On Sheila's first visit (all treatments are conducted at the client's home), she will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle.  Sheila will then use her hands to apply pressure to the feet.  The application and effect of the therapy is unique to each person.  As a professionally trained reflexologist, Sheila will be able to detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet and, by working on these points, may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.

A treatment session usually lasts for about an hour.  A course of treatment may be recommended, depending on your body's needs.



After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people experience a sense of wellbeing and relaxation; sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is a part of the healing process.  This is vital information to feed back to Sheila, as it shows how your body is responding to treatment and will help her to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.  

We hope that the foregoing will have answered most of your questions about reflexology, but, if there's anything further you'd like to know, please don't hesitate to contact us.