Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone get Reflexology?

In most cases, yes! In cases where you may have clotting issues after surgery or if you are diagnosed with DVT, Deep Vein Thrombosis, Reflexology can not be given. Reflexology increases blood circulation and you would be at risk of moving a blood clot that may travel to your lungs or brain, which in most cases is fatal. If you have had one within the last 10 years please consult a doctor before receiving Reflexology.

I am pregnant, is reflexology safe?

Absolutely. Reflexology can help ease symptoms related with pregnancy while helping the body relax, relieving tension, improving mood, relieving pain, improving blood and lymph circulation, and promoting a feeling of well-being. Reflexology should only be avoided if it is a high risk pregnancy during the first trimester. Please call before booking so we can establish if reflexology is the best modality for you and I can answer any questions you have.

Can I get other body work with reflexology?

Reflexology works the whole body’s systems. I do not recommend any other body work for at least 3 days after your session, unless you are with an individual who has been trained to do so. Over-working your body can send you into a healing crisis which can be unpleasant.

Side effects of reflexology

Common side effects are a state of relaxation, improved mood, increase in energy, better sleep, release of tension, pain relief, increase in circulation and the transport of nourishment as well as removal waste. You may have an extra bowel movement that day or a bigger one the next day, and urinate more.

Can reflexology make me feel worse?

If your body is in the process of healing it may intensify that process, what we call a healing crisis. Your healing symptoms may be more intense but the duration is normally shortened and things tend to feel better faster. Combining body work can also cause you to have a healing crisis.

Is a foot massage the same a reflexology?

No. While a foot massage or foot rub can feel nice it is not the same thing. Reflexology is a therapeutic practice that is closer to acupressure or acupuncture.

When did people first start practicing reflexology?

Reflexology dates back to about 5000 years ago in India, 4500 years ago in Egypt, 4000 years ago in China and Japan , and 2500 years ago in across Asia and Tibet. Its practices came to in Europe in the 1500’s and eventually made it way across the pond in that late 1800’s. This modality has been used relieve pain, stress and ease symptoms of chronic illness for thousands of years. As a non-invasive, non-pharmacological therapy it has gained momentum here in the US.

How does it work?

Think of your feet as a map of reflexes to your body. These reflexes represent a part of your body from your muscle skeletal system to lymphatic, digestive, endocrine, central nervous system, organs everything mapped out on your feet. As the Reflexologist I walk this reflex map and apply pressure with hand techniques mostly with my thumbs, fingers and knuckles. If you are have a chronic illness, or pain or are under stress, some of your reflexes may feel different. Touching these areas and working on these reflexes can cause the brain “check in” on that area of the body. Most times the result is relief from the issue and an overall feeling of relaxation. It is not uncommon to not be aware and to feel asleep during a session.

Can you tell me whats wrong with me?

No. I am not a doctor, I do not diagnose and cannot tell you what’s wrong by touching your feet. If you need a diagnosis, please see a doctor.

Does it hurt?

There are different styles of Reflexology and some are more intense than others. I personally do not believe that more pressure is more effective, nor do I consider Reflexology to be a “no pain, no gain” modality. Most of my clients are dealing with issues that involve discomfort; the last thing I want to do is add more discomfort. There may be tenderness found during a session, it is important to communicate any discomfort you may be feeling so I can apply the appropriate pressure that’s right for you.

How does reflexology help heal you?

Your body heals itself, not me or Reflexology. Reflexology is a modality that helps nudge you in the best state for that to happen, Homeostasis.

How fast does it work?

Everyone is unique, if you enjoy reflexology then keep at it and see how it effects the other aspects of your life. See My Story for my journey with this modality.