What Is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a natural healing therapy which dates back to ancient times. Both the Egyptians and the Chinese practiced reflexology over 3000 years ago. Reflexology was brought to the West in the early 1800's, and is now being practiced throughout all of western culture. It is based on the belief that specific points of the foot correspond to every part, gland, and organ of the body. By applying pressure to these areas, reflexology has a physiological effect on the body.

 

The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly. ~ Buddha

Reflexology, Perth Ontario

What Can Reflexology Do For Me?

Reflexology reduces stress, induces relaxation and improves circulation, thereby creating optimal conditions for the body to do its natural work, that of repairing and building cells.

"After a reflexology and PSYCH-K® session with Margaret, I feel like I'm walking on air. I have noticed that I have a better approach on my life. I can unwind and relax more easily. I can attest to reflexology's many benefits. Every session with Margaret is beneficial and insightful. Margaret's knowledge and her calming and kind manner have helped me work through some emotional and demanding times. Her touch is healing and stress-reducing. I am very grateful for my time with her and for what I can take from our sessions." ~ Rachel - EAO M.A. Lettres françaises

Reflexology, Perth Ontario

Does Reflexology Really Work?

There are countless studies on the effects of reflexology. One example of a reflexology study done on a group of cancer patients yielded these results: "Reflexology modifies the distressing symptoms of pain and nausea in patients hospitalized with cancer... 87 patients participated in the study and each received a 10-minute reflexology foot massage (5 minutes per foot). The results revealed that the treatments produced a significant and immediate effect on the patients' perceptions of pain, nausea and relaxation when measured with a visual scale."
("Foot Massage: A nursing intervention to modify the distressing symptoms of pain and nausea in patients hospitalized with cancer." Grealish, L., Lomasney,A., Whiteman,B., Cancer Nurse 2000, June:23(3):237-43)

Health Benefits of Reflexology

What Are Some of the Conditions Reflexology Has Been Known to Help?

  • Asthma and other respiratory illnesses
  • Arthritis
  • Constipation and other bowel disorders
  • Menopausal symptoms
  • Diabetes type 2
  • Migraine headaches
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Depression
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Insomnia
  • Gout
  • Post-Surgical Pain

What Happens During a Reflexology Treatment?

On the first visit, the reflexologist will take a medical history. Following that, the client will be asked to lie down comfortably on a bed, a sofa, or sit in a reclining chair while the reflexologist works on their feet - applying pressure using thumb, finger, and hand techniques. The reflexology treatment lasts approximately 60 minutes.