The Centre for Natural Health

"Reflexology is the application of specific pressures to reflex points in the hands and feet" - William Fitzgerald (1872 - 1942)

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a complementary therapy that works on the feet or hands enabling the body to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, it is in a state of "imbalance", and vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can be used to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.

A Reflexologist uses hands only to apply pressure to the feet. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique. Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet, and by working on these points the Reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.

Who Can Benefit From Reflexology?

Since reflexology treats the whole person, not just the symptoms of disease, most people benefit from treatment. Reflexology is suitable for:

• Acute and chronic conditions
• Stress related conditions
• Sleep disorders
• Children and adults
• Sports injuries
• Preventative therapy

Indeed reflexology can benefit almost everyone. An increasing number of people are using this safe, natural therapy as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonising the body.

What Happens When You Go For Treatment?

On your first visit there is a preliminary talk with the practitioner. The Reflexologist then begins to work on your feet, or hands if necessary, noting problem areas. There may be discomfort in some places, but it is fleeting, and is an indication of congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. For the most part, the sensation is pleasant and soothing.

Usually a treatment session lasts between 30 minutes to 1 hour. A course of treatment varies in length depending on your body's needs. Your Reflexologist will discuss this with you at the first session. See our price list.

After the first treatment or two your body may respond in a very definite way: you may have a feeling of well-being and relaxation; or you may feel lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory. It is, however, vital information for Reflexologists, as it shows how your body is responding to treatment.

The History of Reflexology

In 1913 Dr. William Fitzgerald noted that pressure on specific parts of the body could have an anaesthetising effect on a related area. Developing this theory, he divided the body into ten equal and vertical zones, ending in the fingers and toes. He concluded that pressure on one part of a zone could affect everything else within that zone.

Our reflexologist is Jan Woodford
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In the 1930's, Eunice Ingham, a therapist, further developed and refined the zone therapy into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. Thus, when you treat the big toes there is a related effect in the head, and treating the whole foot can have a relaxing and healing effect on the whole body.

Reflexology in practice as depicted on the Egyptian tomb of Ankmahor in 2350 BC