The Benefits of Reflexology: 5 Questions With Juliette
What made you want to practice reflexology? My name is Juliette and I am now the wrong side of 45! Nearly 20 years ago I developed insomnia and simply could not get any sleep… nothing worked for me. Sleeping tablets made me feel dreadful and only gave me a few hours of broken sleep.
A chance encounter with a reflexologist changed all of this for me. After a few treatments my sleep patterns were slowly restored and I was able to function again. Reflexology is amazing, bringing the body back into balance whether that being hormonally, with the digestive system or any other aspect of health.
So in 2018, I left my career behind and re-trained as a reflexologist. After a full on year of studying I set up my business, Footprints Reflexology of Rochester.
What is reflexology and how does reflexology work on the body?
Reflexology is a non-invasive complementary health therapy that can be effective in promoting deep relaxation and wellbeing. Reducing stress in your daily life can be key to optimising good health and building resilience. It is a touch therapy that is based on the theory that different points on the feet, lower legs, hands, face and ears correspond with different areas of the body.
Most reflexologists work on the feet however if you have really ticklish feet, the treatment can also work effectively on your hands.
What is reflexology good for?
In short, anything and everything.
Reflexology is great for stress relief and relaxation and so many health problems are exacerbated by stress there’s nothing to lose.
Relaxation, affective touch and the therapeutic relationship can help to support the lifestyle changes needed to promote better health. Many charities and professional organisations in the mental health sector also use reflexology as a supportive therapy.
Unless you are in the first trimester of pregnancy, have recently had surgery or currently have a deep vein thrombosis then reflexology is suitable for you.
What could a prospective client expect from one of your reflexology sessions?
A typical reflexology session lasts around 45 minutes to an hour and starts with a consultation about your general health and lifestyle. Your reflexologist will also establish what you wish to gain from your reflexology sessions.
You will then have to remove your shoes and socks and then lay back or sit comfortably in a chair. Your reflexologist will then warm up your feet by applying pressure from the toes to the heel according to your comfort; firm thumb and hand movements are then used to identify areas of tenderness or tension. Reflexology is not painful but certain ares can feel more tender than others; sensitivity varies from client to client.
After the session, your feet will feel warm and you should experience a general feeling of calm and relaxation, you may even feel sleepy.
You may experience the relaxing effects of reflexology after just one session however it may take longer to identify the benefits in other areas of your body. Many people find that their sleep patterns and mood improve over the course of a few sessions, this however does differ between individuals.
What do you think is the main thing that stops people from trying reflexology and can you myth bust any common misconceptions?
“Surely someone touching my feet will make me ticklish? Plus I don’t like getting my feet out in front of someone else!”
Even if your feet become ticklish to light, floating movements, the treatment is quite firm and you soon overcome the urge to giggle! As for your feet, your reflexologist will have seen every type of feet before seeing yours. All medical information is completely confidential so rest assured no one will be gossiping about your feet.
I am fully insured, DBS checked and a member of the Association of Reflexology. If you would like to find a local reflexologist I highly recommend using their website (Find a Reflexologist | Association of Reflexologists (aor.org.uk) in order to be reassured you are getting quality standards. All our member are COVID secure.