Reflexology is a holistic complementary therapy which has been practiced in one form or another for centuries by many different cultures. It is a widely held theory among reflexologists that it originated in China about 5000 years ago and it is documented in Egypt around 2500-2300BC. There is a wall painting taken from the tomb of Ankhmahor, an Egyptian physician which depicts people receiving foot and hand reflexology.

The reflexology that is practiced today was mainly introduced into Great Britain in the 1960's by Doreen Bayley, a student of Eunice Ingham. It was Eunice Ingham who developed the first detailed foot maps of the reflex areas of the feet.

Reflexology is based on the principle that the anatomy of the body is reflected in miniature on the reflex zones of the feet. Therefore by applying pressure to these zones healing is both initiated and accelerated in the corresponding area of the body. A reflexology treatment can bring about the same sensations of relaxation and restfulness that a full body massage can produce and therefore it can be most useful in the treatment of stress.

What to expect at the consultation? Reflexology is a holistic therapy, the word holistic being derived from the Greek word 'holos' meaning whole. Holistic therapies treat the whole person through the mind, body and spirit. Therefore when you come to your initial consultation you will not only be asked questions about your health but also your diet and lifestyle. This is an important aspect of the treatment as it is beneficial for the therapist to have an understanding of all the factors that may be affecting your health, including how you feel physically and emotionally.

Treatment takes place with you sitting in a semi-reclined position on a professional couch or chair. You will be asked to remove only your shoes and socks and your feet will then be wiped with an antiseptic wipe. The therapist will initially examine the feet before commencing applying gentle pressure to the reflex points. Where there are corresponding physical problems, the client may experience some slight discomfort and/or the therapist may feel some blockages in the area. For example, when the therapist touches the reflex point that corresponds to the liver, if the client has a problem with that organ, then some discomfort may be felt in the foot.

What are the benefits? Generally, most clients report that a reflexology treatment is wonderfully relaxing and soothing, and many people fall asleep. Each session will last about an hour and, in most cases, a series of sessions are necessary. Some clients book a regularly weekly or monthly session.

Some people find Reflexology helps to relieve the symptoms of disorders including:

• Skin conditions
• Respiratory conditions
• Migraine
• PMS
• Menopausal problems
• Chronic fatigue
• Stress
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia