Where does reflexology come from?

The existence of reflexology in ancient cultures is unmistakable. Evidence of the use of healing therapies practiced on the feet has been found all over the world. Depictions were discovered of people working on each other's feet in a physician's tomb in Egypt, dating around 2500 BC. It is widely accepted that reflexology has been practiced throughout Asia and was a part of health maintenance in Native American cultures. However, reflexology as we know it today was developed in the west early in the 20th century.

What can I expect?

Your first session will last a little over an hour and begin with a simple and confidential evaluation of your health. With an accurate understanding of your current and past conditions and concerns, the most effective plan can be created. Each session usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the condition of your feet and your state of health.

Does reflexology have any undesirable side effects?

If you are ill or your body is imbalanced, you may start to release toxins that have been building up. Detoxification symptoms can be experienced as headaches, nausea, skin breakouts, emotional release, dizziness, lethargy or a temporary onset of symptoms from a previous disease or suppressed condition. It is important to keep in mind that these toxins need to be released from the body to facilitate healing. It is a good idea to increase your water intake after a session, and if you can, please rest and allow the body to respond.

Will it hurt?

It is completely normal to feel some discomfort during a session. There may be particular reflexes that are more tender than others, which may indicate imbalance or congestion, usually meaning these are areas that need more attention. Tenderness decreases with each session, but it's important to make your reflexologist aware of any discomfort. Not everyone will experience tenderness. In fact, the most common experience includes deep relaxation as the nervous system is stimulated. Clients typically leave feeling refreshed, relaxed and always like they're walking on air!

Who can benefit from reflexology?

Basically, everyone! Reflexology brings the body into balance and is especially great for preventing potential imbalance and disease and for maintaining a state of health. Children, adults, elderly, pregnant women and those with ailments can all experience the benefits of reflexology, although there are some conditions that require more care than others.

Are there any contraindications?

Please consult with your physician first if you have a severe case of athlete's foot, warts, ingrown toe nails, varicose veins in the feet, or if you currently or recently have had broken ankle or foot bones. Always tell your reflexologist if you're pregnant, diabetic, receiving chemotherapy or have phlebitis, aneurism or blood clots. Reflexology can still play an active role in your well-being, but extra care must be taken with these conditions. There are few circumstances when reflexology should not be received. Please feel open to ask as many questions as you like.

How many sessions should I have?

It is likely that it took your body years to develop any imbalance that may be troubling you; therefore, it is necessary to be patient with your body and allow it time for its cells to be reprogrammed. Chronic conditions usually take longer to respond, but it is generally recommended that you receive at least one session per week for 4-10 weeks, depending on your individual situation. There are also situations in which bi-weekly, or monthly sessions are appropriate.

Can I receive reflexology while under a physician's care?

Absolutely! Reflexology and holistic medicine can complement your medical regimen positively. Always tell your reflexologist if you're on medications and the reason you're taking them. Reflexology is noninvasive and rarely causes any adverse effects, and often natural healing modalities can offer relief where western medicine has not been effective.