"Manuela's sessions are both therapeutic and celebratory"
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive, complementary therapy that involves a pressure technique using the thumbs and fingers on reflex areas found on the feet, lower legs, ears, hands and face. This technique has roots in Ancient Egypt and China. Modern reflexology was developed in the early 20th century and is now recognised globally as a powerful complementary therapy.
The treatment is founded on the principle that the body is divided into 10 key zones and reflex points in the feet, lower legs,, hands, ears and face which correspond to each organ, gland, muscle, bone and structure in the body, and are linked to those elements by energy channels, zones or meridians. When illness occurs in the body, the corresponding energy channels become blocked, and Reflexology is applied to clear these blockages and increase circulation. 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
- improves circulation,
- improves sleep,
- 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.
Who is it for?
Reflexology is suitable for everyone in all stages of health.
Treatments are tailored to your specific needs. This could be asking for support in dealing with chronic pain, digestive issues or stress related symptoms. The aim is to help the body relax and restore it to a sense of wellbeing and balance. Some clients use reflexology as a way to deal with emotional imbalances or to escape from the rush of their daily life, and want to feel generally calmer, happier and more energetic.
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, refer patients for a course of reflexology treatments 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.
If you embarassed abour your feet then that is ok. I offer foot and facial reflexology as an alternative.
What I would say is that I have worked with so many feet that there is so little that I haven't seen and I really enjoy working with feet. Our feet reveal so much of our life story and 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?
Although Reflexology is suitable for most people in all stages of health, you should check with your medical practitioner that they are happy for you to receive a treatment. It is also important that you should always use a professionally qualified reflexologist who is trained to identify contraindications and ensure that any treatment is safe.
I am pregnant, is reflexology safe?
Yes, Reflexology is safe when performed by a practitoner trained in pregnancy and maternity reflexology. I have experience working with clients who are at all stages or pregnancy as well as post partum.
Will it hurt?
Reflexology is a gentle non invasive treatment and shouldn't cause pain. You may however feel tenderness in certain areas but the treatment should be relaxing.
Do I need to get undressed?
You only need to remove your shoes and socks for foot reflexology.
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 it based on how you respond to treatments.
How long is a typical session?
All sessions last around 60 minutes although I also 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 your expectations and agree a treatment plan specifically for you.
You will 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 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 will help you relax and feel calmer, and you might fall asleep as you drift into a state of complete relaxation. Many clients have said they feel lighter, more positive and energetic after their treatment. At the end of the treatment, you will have the opportunity to talk through your experience during the treatment 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. The most imnportant thing to do is listen to your body.