A visit to the Reflexologist may be inspired by a need for stress reduction or relaxation, for regular health maintenance or goal oriented to improve a health condition. Studies show many chronic and stress related conditions respond very well to Reflexology and it is growing in popularity amongst the young and the old.
The Health History Intake Form
At the first visit to a Reflexologist the client will complete a health history form. The practitioner will not be treating for a specific disease or illness, but instead working with the body holistically. It is important to include medications, surgeries, illnesses and accidents the client has experienced on this form.
Cleaning the Feet
Since this will be the main focus of a session the Reflexologist will choose one of two options to clean the feet prior to starting the session – a foot soak, or a cloth or moist wipe. Some Reflexologists argue that a foot soak can reduce signs and patterns that give clues to the person’s overall health. For example, the temperature of the feet, the odor and colors all can be read as stress cues by a Reflexologist.
A Foot Reflexology Session
The feet are the most commonly used map in Reflexology practices. Reflexologists will use finger and thumb techniques to cover every part of the feet with varied forms of pressure. An Ingham-trained Reflexologist may work one foot first and then the second while a practitioner trained in the Universal method will work the feet back and forth and simultaneously.
Toes represent the cranial reflexes which hold the eyes, sinuses, brain and so forth. The heel mirrors the hips, pelvis, and reproductive organs. Abdominal reflex areas are reflected over the instep and middle of the foot while the ball of the foot corresponds to the lungs and chest.
Modern Reflexology suggests that deep pressure techniques are not required for the session to be effective. Asian forms of Reflexology can be very painful due to the forced pressure techniques. The Reflexology client should be comfortable and relaxed for the session and therefore should communicate with his practitioner if the pressure is too intense. Brief discomfort over some reflexes is common but the client should not be in pain as this can reduce the benefits of the session when the body reacts out of great discomfort or fear of harm.
After the Reflexology Session
Adequate water intake after a session is encouraged to prevent what is considered a healing crisis. The Reflexologist may offer a bottle or glass of water to the client after the session or simply remind him to stay hydrated over the next 24 hours.
Reflexology can get the body’s eliminatory functions moving and it is quite common for the client to have increased bowel movements and urination up to a couple of days after the session. Some people will feel sleepy or tired after their session while others will be energized and ready to take on the day. It is best to take a gentler approach to the day’s activities after a session to allow time for the body to rest or cleanse.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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