"Manuela's sessions are both therapeutic and celebratory"
What is Reflexology and how does it work?
Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive, complementary therapy focused on specific reflex points on the feet and lower leg which correspond to different organs, body parts and systems. Our feet hold over 25000 nerve endings and 26 bones. By stimulating specific reflex points and working deeply within the fascia, reflexology can help release tension, improve circulation and promote deep relexation. The technique has roots as far back as Ancient Egypt and China. Modern reflexology was developed by William Fitzgerland and Eunice Ingham in the early 20th century, and is now recognised globally as a powerful complementary therapy.
When illness occurs in the body, the corresponding energy channels become blocked, and Reflexology is applied to clear these blockages. This allows the energy to flow freely again, which restores the body’s natural balance and therefore good health.
Reflexology provides many benefits:
- Supports the body's response to stress and anxiety. Stress disrupts the communication between the neural, endocrine and immune pathways. When we are stressed our body produces corticosteroids. Studies have shown that the overproduction of corticosteroids, is linked to inflammation and chronic disease. By helping the body relax, reflexology slows down the production of costicosteroids and helps support the immune function.
- Reflexology improves circulation,
- improves sleep,
- releases tension,
- boosts the immune system to help fend off illness,
- alleviates digestive issues,
- alleviates symptoms of headaches, migraines, neck, shoulder and other joint pains,
- is beneficial as a natural treatment during fertility, conception, pregnancy, and post natal care,
- is beneficial for hormone health and balance during perimenopause, menopause and beyond.
Reflexology is not intended to replace medical treatment or professional healthcare advice. Reflexology does not diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions but supports the person as a whole. If you have a serious medical condition or require a diagnosis, please consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting a treatment.
Who is it for?
Reflexology is suitable for everyone in all stages of health.
Treatments are tailored to your specific needs. The intention of the treatment is to help the body relax and restore it to a sense of wellbeing and balance. Clients use reflexology as a way to deal with physical or emotional imbalances or to escape from the stresses of their daily life. ,
There are a number of studies which show how regular treatments have been shown to significantly reduce patients' subjective experiences of stress, lower cortisol levels, lower anxiety and reduce depression. As a result Reflexology is becoming more recognised within our National Health system. Many NHS hospitals, such as UCLH and The Royal Marsden in London, offer reflexology treatments to patients, to help them with pain, muscle stiffness, breathlessness, anxiety and fatigue, or to just lift their patient’s mood and help them cope with treatment.
I am embarrassed about my feet and would prefer you not to touch my feet.
Some people feel embarassed about their feet and worry about trying reflexology. If you are embarassed about your feet then that's ok. I offer hand and facial reflexology as an alternative. I also work the arms to release any tension within the deep fascia.
To reassure you, I have worked with hundreds of feet and there is little that I haven't seen. Our feet are much neglected and reveal so much of our health and life story, it is extremely rewarding for me to see how working on the feet can transform people.
I have had recent surgery or an injury is it safe to have reflexology?
Reflexology is generally suitable for most people in all stages of health. You should however, check with your surgeon that they are happy for you to receive a treatment. It is also important that you should use a professionally trained reflexologist who is trained to identify contraindications and ensure that any treatment is safe.
I am pregnant, is reflexology safe?
Yes, Reflexology is generally safe when performed by a practitoner trained in pregnancy and maternity reflexology. I have experience working with clients at all stages of pregnancy as well as post-partum. If you are concerned about any undiagnosed symptoms then you should always check with your midwife before having a treatment.
Will it hurt?
Reflexology is a gentle non invasive treatment and shouldn't cause excessive pain, however you may however feel some tenderness when working specific reflexes but this should disappear as your body releases tension. Clients often describe it as a "good pain". After your treatment you should feel lighter and relaxed.
Do I need to get undressed?
You only need to remove your shoes and socks for foot reflexology. If I work up the arms then I would suggest wearing a shortsleeve top.
How many treatments do I need?
This will vary based on your own individual needs. We will discuss this during your first session and adjust any plans based on how you respond to treatments. Although reflexology can be extremely effective in one session, for those experiencing acute pain or a chronic illness, I often recommend several treatments but closer together initially. Please be aware that this is very much dependant on how you feel the treatment has benefitted you.
Is reflexology covered by my private healthplan insurance?
This will vary based on your own healthplan. Many providers, such as BUPA, do cover reflexology treatments with an accredited Reflexologist, as part of their cash back offering, but please do check this with your own individual policy, as terms may vary,
How long is a typical session?
The first session is usually 1 hour an 15 minutes. This includes an initial consultation and a treatment. Thereafter sessions usually last around 60 minutes although I can offer 90 minute sessions for those people looking for a longer treatment.
What happens during the treatment?
When you book a treatment, you will be asked to complete an online health questionnaire and I will ask you to return it before your first visit, so that I can understand your current state of health and your reasons for treatment. When we meet we will then discuss these and your expectations.
You will usually be asked to lie down fully clothed, on a comfortable couch or chair. If you have any mobility concerns then please mention these when booking. As reflexology works primarily on the feet, you will be asked to remove your shoes and socks or tights. Please wear comfortable clothing or loose trousers when you come, so that I can work easily around the lower leg if need be, ankles, calves as well as the feet.
If you are having facial reflexology or Zone Face Lift treatments, you will be asked to lie down on a treatment couch, supported by cushions, to make you comfortable. I will then cleanse your face and remove any residual makeup.
Reflexology is extremely gentle and non-invasive. It should help you relax and feel calmer. Many clients have said they feel lighter, more positive and energetic after their treatment. Many clients also find they have more mobility in their feet after a treatment. At the end of the treatment, you will have the opportunity to talk through your experience with me as well as ask me any questions you may have.
What should I do after a session?
After a session, you may feel relaxed and have some relief from symptoms, as well as feel rested and notice improved sleep. Some clients report feeling energised after my sessions. I recommend drinking plenty of water and resting if you need. I would also suggest avoiding eating heavy meals within the first two to three hours after a session. The most important thing to do is listen to your body.