FAQ's

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a non-intrusive complimentary therapy based on the theory that the feet hold a micro map of the entire body, there are reflexes in the feet that relate to each organ and every part of the body.  Stimulating these reflexes through pressure or massage activates the body’s ability to heal itself. You can find out more about this on the Home page.

 

So is reflexology the same as a foot massage?

No. Although reflexology involves the feet, it is different from a general massage.

Reflexology uses specific pressure techniques targeting reflex points to stimulate healing

responses throughout the body.

 

What can Reflexology help with?

Reflexology works on every organ and system in the body and some of the areas it has been reported to help people with are:

• Releasing stress, anxiety and tension

• Strengthening the immune system

• Improving quality of Sleep

• Reducing frequency and severity of headaches and migraines

• Improving cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation

• Lifting mood

• Improving energy levels

• Hormonal imbalances

• Digestive issues

 

 What should I expect during a session?

At your first session we will complete a consultation form together so I have an idea about your current health and lifestyle and your reasons for seeking reflexology.  This could be for a specific condition or for general health and relaxation. 

You will then relax on the treatment couch while I apply some reflexology balm and apply pressure to various reflex points on your feet. 

A treatment session, including the consultation will last for 60 minutes (45 minutes for under 18’s).

After the session we will go through any reflex points where I have perhaps felt congestion or inflammation.  This will not be a diagnosis of any medical conditions but just shows areas where your body may be currently out of balance.

 

Will reflexology hurt?

Reflexology should not be painful. You may feel some sensitivity or tenderness in certain areas, which often relates to imbalances in the corresponding body part. The sensitivity will usually lessen as the point is held and the pressure can always be adjusted to your comfort.

 

What do I do after the treatment?  How will I feel?

In the 12 hours following your treatment you should try to

• Relax

• Drink plenty of filtered water

• Eat lightly and healthily

• Avoid caffeine and excess alcohol

After receiving a reflexology treatment most people feel relaxed or have a sensation of wellbeing, some find it energising and uplifting.  Some people can experience side effects where your body has a healing-response to the treatment.  This could be a sign that your body is flushing away toxins and re-balancing itself. 

These symptoms should not last longer than 24 hours and could include

• Tiredness

• Headaches

• Heightened emotions

• Increased need to visit the toilet

• Feeling cold

• Flare up of existing conditions

 

Can reflexology be done during pregnancy?

Reflexology is safe to have during pregnancy.  We can discuss this prior to your first session or at your first consultation with me.

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Can I have reflexology alongside other medical treatments?

Yes, reflexology is often used as a complementary therapy. It should not replace medical treatment but can be used to support symptoms and overall wellbeing alongside it.

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I have ticklish feet, perhaps reflexology isn’t for me?

Don’t worry if you have sensitive or ticklish feet.  It’s when you experience light touch on your feet that you can feel ticklish.  The pressure with reflexology is quite firm so you don’t get that ticklish sensation.

 

Do I have to wear anything in particular?

Just wear something comfortable for you.  I only need access to your feet and ankles.  If you’re coming for hot stones reflexology it’s preferable to be able to get up to your knee easily as well.

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Do I need to wash my feet before coming to my appointment?

You don’t need to at all.  I will wash your feet before we start. 

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I’d love to try reflexology but am super awkward about my feet…

Lots of people can be.  I’ve seen lots of different feet and make no judgement about them.  My feet are nowhere near perfect! We could all do with giving our feet a bit more love and attention. Feet are fascinating and can tell us a lot about our health and wellbeing so I’m always interested to see your feet! 

 

Will I feel the benefits straight away?

Some people definitely do, for others it may take a few sessions. 

 

How many sessions will I need?

Reflexologists recommend 4 to 6 sessions to start off with, especially for a specific health concern.  This should be ideally on a weekly basis and then monthly maintenance sessions. 

You could also come on a monthly basis but really you can come as often or as little as you like, whatever works for you.  We can always discuss what the ideal frequency might be at your first session.

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Are there any times when Reflexology isn’t appropriate for me?

At your first session we will go through a consultation form together.  There are only a few cases where Reflexology may not be suitable at the time and these would include:

 

• Recent breaks or severe cuts or bruising or surgery to your feet

• If you have or have had in the last 48 hours fever/diarrhoea/vomiting

• Thrombosis/DVT

• If you have been on a flight recently (last 48 hours)

• If you have a severe cold or COVID symptoms

• Recent major surgery (last 6 weeks)

• Infectious skin conditions such as multiple verruca’s

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What products do you use?

The skin is the largest organ in our body and it absorbs everything you put on it so I am incredibly mindful of what I put on your feet and what products I use everyday.

I use a variety of products in my reflexology, all of which are 100% natural and use organic ingredients where possible.

Alami Holistics Reflexology Balm Alami Holistics | Skincare & Holistic Treatments | Devon

Flying Wild Reflexology Balm Flying Wild

Songbird Reflexology Wax Songbird Massage Wax | Sports Massage Wax | Vegan Wax

 

Can I chat to you about reflexology before coming to a session?

Absolutely!  Just drop me an email on harriet.rebalancereflexology@gmail.com and we can have an email conversation or arrange a time to have a chat over the phone.

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Is everything I say to you confidential?

Yes.  Everything you say to me is confidential and any notes that I take are kept securely and in line with GDPR legislation.

 

Can I claim for Reflexology on a private health plan?

Lot of private health insurers enable you to claim for Reflexology treatments.  Please check with your provider before booking with me.

 

What payment methods do you accept?

I can accept cash or bank transfer.  I can also accept card payments, paypal and apple pay.

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Still have questions? Contact me using the button below.

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