For Reflexology in Basingstoke

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

 

Q. Does reflexology diagnose?

A. NO. Reflexology identifies where stress and tension is located in the body. This can be a valuable assistance to the diagnosis process, but it is not sufficient by itself. If a reflexology recipient has identified other symptoms that coincide with the stress and tension identified by reflexology, and then they should consult a licensed health care provider such as a naturopathic doctor or a medical doctor for a diagnosis.
If a reflexology recipient is not aware of any other symptoms that corroborate with the stress and tension identified by reflexology, then the person should recognize that the stress and tension will be alleviated to some degree by reflexology stimulation. Therefore, to some extent their stress is being taken care of. It is their choice whether to continue receiving reflexology in order to alleviate the stress and tension, and/or whether to seek out other therapies to assist. Reflexologists are not licensed health care providers and hence are legally not allowed to diagnose.

Q. Does reflexology treat disease?

A. NO. Reflexologists do not work with a treatment orientation; rather they are oriented to revitalizing the whole body and hence supporting the body in its own healing process. Frequently disease is alleviated or managed.

Q. If reflexology does not treat disease, what can it do for me?

A. Reflexology is used primarily to relieve stress and tension and produce deep therapeutic relaxation. Medical doctors agree that over three fourths of our health problems can be linked to nervous and physical tension. By reducing stress and tension, reflexology improves blood and lymph circulation, strengthens the functioning of the immune system, improves assimilation of nutrition and elimination of toxins, and calms the nervous system. In these ways, reflexology facilitates the body's natural healing processes and thereby enhances the body's health and vitality. As a social activity, practicing reflexology is a wonderful way to spend pleasurable quality time with friends of all ages. You will find that it can deepen the intimacy and extend the scope of your relationships.

 

Q. If I don't believe in reflexology, will it still be effective?

A. YES. Reflexology relieves stress and tension and deeply relaxes people independent of their beliefs about it. Many very sceptical people have become strong advocates for reflexology after experiencing it. It is also quite possible that your belief in its effectiveness will enhance its benefits. Try it with an open mind and find out for yourself how you respond to reflexology. Each person has his or her own unique response.

Q. If I have a serious ailment, such as heart trouble, diabetes or cancer, can reflexology make my condition worse?

A. Absolutely not! Reflexology practised with common sense is completely safe. It simply relaxes the body, which allows it to function more effectively. The results can be amazing!!! If a licensed health care provider such as a medical or naturopathic doctor is managing your condition, it is important that you discuss the consequences of any therapy (including reflexology) with this person before you commence treatment. This is particularly appropriate if your condition involves an organ transplant, an implanted device (pacemaker), or, is acute.

Q. Can reflexology do me any serious harm?

A. NO. Reflexology is essentially harmless. The therapeutic relaxation that reflexology produces facilitates the body's release of toxins. On very rare occasions this release of toxins may bring about perspiration, a nauseous feeling, a headache, or a bad taste in the mouth. These minor discomforts are evidence of the body's healing process, are very temporary and are not serious. Should you experience any discomfort after a reflexology session that is not temporary, then you should assume that its cause is independent of the reflexology and take the appropriate remedial actions. Most people enjoy pleasant relaxed and/or energized feelings after a reflexology session.

 

Q. Is Reflexology painful?

A. Reflexology can be extremely relaxing, however if there is a part of the body that is unbalanced, the corresponding reflex point may feel sore or tender whilst the practitioner works to rebalance the area. If at any time you find the treatment painful, please tell your Practitioner, as it is important that they work within your comfort-zone.

 

Q. Is Reflexology ticklish?

A. No. The way in which a professional Reflexologist holds and works the feet is with a firm pressure which is not at all ticklish.

 

Q. Will a Reflexologist remove hard skin and cut my nails too?

A. No. Unless the Practitioner also holds a professional Chiropody qualification, they will not be permitted to carry out any such work.

 

Q. Do Reflexologists have to be registered in order to practice?

A. No. Currently in the UK, there is no regulation of Reflexologists. This means that the standard of work varies considerably. We recommend that you choose a practitioner who holds the letters MIFR (Member of the International Federation of Reflexologists) or MAR (Member of the Association of Reflexologists) or both. If they are a Member of the Association of Reflexologists, they will have met a strict entry criteria and will be insured and hold a First Aid Certificate. They will also be committed to regular post-graduate training to keep their skills up to date.

 

Q. Is there any scientific basis to REFLEXOLOGY?

A. In the 1890’s knighted research scientist, Dr. Henry Head, proved the neurological relationship that exists between the skin and the internal organs. Nobel prize winner, Sir Charles Sherrington proved that the whole nervous system and body adjusts to a stimulus when it is applied to any part of the body. In Germany, Dr. Alfons Cornelius observed pressure to certain spots triggered muscle contractions, changes in blood pressure, variation in warmth and moisture in the body as well as directly affecting the “psychic processes” or mental state of the patient. Currently research studies to further validate reflexology are being conducted in many countries including Switzerland, Denmark, USA and Australia. In Japan and Denmark reflexology has been incorporated into the employee health programs of several large corporations saving each company thousands of dollars annually. The American Academy of Reflexology teamed up with Dr. Terry Oleson and conducted a study on the positive effects Reflexology has on PMS symptoms. This study was published in Obstetric & Gynecology in December 1993. Over 300 Reflexology research studies on over 150 health challenges have been conducted around the world.

Q. Who can benefit from reflexology?

A. Everyone can benefit from reflexology including children, the elderly, the sick and the healthy. Reflexology is completely non-invasive, pleasurable and relaxing.

Q. How often can I have reflexology?

A. Even though reflexology feels so wonderful you'd like to have it done everyday, it is always best not to have a full reflexology session more than once every 3 or 4 days. If you have a health condition that is being assisted with reflexology you would probably start with a session once every 3 or 4 days then as your condition improves you would taper your sessions down as you feel you need to. If you are a relatively healthy person and you're using reflexology to maintain your health then you may only want a session once every couple of weeks or once a month. No one knows you, your body and how you feel better than you do, so you should be the judge of what you think would be the most beneficial to your health maintenance program.

 

Q. Is it possible to perform reflexology on myself?

A. Performing reflexology on yourself cannot place you into the required state of parasympathetic to fully realize the benefits of stress and tension release. Having a regular weekly, bi-weekly or even monthly reflexology session with a qualified reflexologist would be most beneficial. However, giving yourself a reflexology treatment can be very helpful to your health and well being. Reflexology can be done most anywhere, most anytime; taking your own foot into your own hands can be a definite alternative to popping a pill. You will need a reflexology foot chart to assist you in finding the appropriate reflex to stimulate for whatever problem you are having at the time.

Q. Does my supplemental health insurance cover reflexology?

A. Your insurance may or may not cover reflexology. You will need to check with your provider to find out what they cover and what your yearly maximums might be. Some insurance covers massage to a maximum yearly and may allow reflexology sessions to be covered under this benefit. It would also be necessary to find out what documentation might be required from your reflexologist as proof of qualification.