WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC REFLEXOLOGY?
Therapeutic Reflexology is a non-invasive complementary therapy that harnesses your body’s own ability to heal. The underlying principle that governs reflexology is that all parts of the body can be mapped out on the feet. A precise technique of applying pressure to these areas is used and can be found to help maintain balance and improve health. Reflexology can be used safely alongside standard healthcare to promote better health.
The aim of reflexology is to keep energy flowing through the body to keep it balanced and disease free. During a reflexology treatment, pressure is applied on the reflexes, which generates electrical and chemical impulses that stimulate the corresponding body organ/system. During these treatments various congested reflex paths “energy blocks” can be released allowing for improved blood circulation which transports important nutrients and oxygen throughout the body which are vital in the body’s self-healing process to bring the body back into balance.
Registered reflexologists will not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe. It is an individual treatment that takes into account physical and non-physical factors that may be affecting your well-being. Some people, that follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly, may find it works for them, while some don’t. The best way to find out is to try it!
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY?
Through stimulation of predefined points (reflexes) on the feet, Reflexology works on the whole person to induce a state of balance and harmony. As the body relaxes, the immune system improves and the ‘feel good factor’ develops into improved overall health.
Some noted benefits of reflexology includes:
- Improve and relieves effects of stress and anxiety
- Pain relief
- Improves sleep
- Improves overall health and general well-being
In addition, people have reported that reflexology helped them:
- Boost their immune system
- Provide relief after cancer treatments
- Manage hormonal imbalances
- Improve digestion
- Ease arthritis pain
- Improves blood and lymphatic circulation
- Elimination of toxins and waste products
WHAT ARE OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?
How does it work?
It is fascinating how precise pressure on specific areas of the feet can affect the whole health of the body. With more than 7000 nerve endings in the foot, clinical experience shows that reflexology helps send signals through the nervous system to the brain to regulate various organs, glands, and systems which assists in bringing the body back into balance.
What to expect during a Therapeutic Reflexology Treatment?
Generally, a session lasts between 40-60 minutes. During the initial session, the therapist will conduct a thorough health and lifestyle consult. The therapist will explain Reflexology and how it works, and you will be asked to sign a consent form. Feel free to ask questions as it might be a new experience. You will then be asked to lie or sit down on the therapy bed, remaining fully clothed (we recommend you avoid wearing tights or skinny jeans) except for your socks and shoes. Your feet will be cleansed, and the therapist begins the treatment with relaxation techniques. This is followed by the use of thumb and finger techniques to apply pressure to all reflex points on both feet. Regardless of your health condition, the therapist focuses on the entire body. You can rest or talk during a session at your discretion. The treatment will mostly be a pleasant experience; however, some sensitive reflexes can be painful. If you fall asleep during a session, you will still receive the full benefits of the treatment.
Feedback during and after sessions are encouraged, and you can request the session stop at any time.
Are there any side effects?
Various reactions may occur following a reflexology session. They might be subtle and not recognised by many people. You may experience increased energy, relief from pain or other symptoms, tiredness, increased mucus, enhanced sleep, and heightened emotions. Many reactions are positive signs that the Reflexology sessions are part of the healing process in bringing the body back into balance.
Feedback during and after sessions are encouraged, and you can request the session stop at any time.
Is reflexology safe to try?
Generally, reflexology is very safe, even for people living with serious health conditions. It’s non-invasive and comfortable to receive, so it may be worth trying if it’s something you’re interested in.
Conditions that are treated with caution:
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Phlebitis
- Internal bleeding
- Insulin dependant
- Pregnancy (1st trimester)
- Lymphatic cancer and leukaemia
- Osteoporosis
- Epilepsy
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Infectious diseases
How many treatments will I need?
For optimum results, two sessions a week are recommended. A course of treatments can vary from 4 to 8 or more. The interval between treatments can be extended as improvements occur. Regular treatments should continue to maintain improvements and prevent imbalances.
What is the difference between reflexologist and therapeutic reflexologist in South Africa?
In South Africa, reflexology is a registered healthcare profession with the Allied Health Professions Council of SA [AHPCSA] and is known as therapeutic reflexology.
To practise legally, the Therapeutic Reflexologist must register with the AHPCSA to obtain a registration number.
The therapeutic reflexologist may treat or provide treatment for diagnosed disease, illness or deficiencies in humans, signs and symptoms of disease/illness in humans or prevention of disease, illness, or deficiencies in humans.
A practice number is a legal requirement for the process of reimbursement of a claim to either a medical scheme member or a service provider.
Non-registered reflexologists, e.g., in Spas and Wellness Centres, normally apply reflexology techniques with the focus on relaxation.
Source: The South African Reflexology Society
Will medical aid cover my therapeutic reflexology sessions?
Contact your medical scheme for further information.
*Please note my practice is contracted OUT of medical aid, kindly settle in full and submit your claim to your medical aid for reimbursement.*
ABOUT RENITA
Therapeutic Reflexologist
Dip. T.R. IARAMT
AHPCSA: A12449 | Practice No: 0996955
