“Reflexology is a science based on the artful application of gentle pressure on reflex areas of the body, most usually hands, feet and ears, which produce harmony, health and homeostasis.”
Reflexology FAQ’s
1. Who can Reflexology be performed on?
Reflexology may be done on everyone. For people with a missing limb or foot, work the hand on the same side of the body. Some special requirements are needed for newborns, children, very elderly, or anyone seriously ill. The rule here is little, lightly and often.
2. How often should a Foot Reflexology session be performed?
It is advised that sessions be carried out at approximately 3 day intervals. This allows time for the body to go through the “healing process” or detox which may happen following the reflexology session.
3. Are there any variations to this guideline?
As with any guideline, there are always exceptions. It is suggested that when an improvement is noted, and if appropriate, foot reflexology sessions can be carried out on a daily basis for an acute condition and once a week for a chronic or long term condition. It is strongly suggested that the 3 day rule be adhered to when practicing reflexology during the learning phase. Different guidelines will be offered when taking post-graduate Reflexology training.
4. What is the average length of a full session?
A full session means working both feet in a session. This will usually take about 45 minutes to one hour. The speed of your hand, finger and thumb movements should help relax the client. Moving too quickly over the client’s foot could be too stimulating.
5. Do I always work both feet?
Yes. Following along with general reflexology principles, the right foot relates to the right side of the body and the left foot relates to the left side of the body. In order to offer a whole body treatment we would need to work both feet.
6. Can I use tools on the feet?
Your fingers are uniquely able to work reflexes on the feet. A variety of implements are advertised for use, and foot rollers can offer some relief from aching feet.
7. How much Pressure should I use on the feet?
The pressure to use is between 3 and 9 pounds of pressure. Some clients prefer to “feel” the reflexology session, others not. Always work within your clients comfort level. This does not mean asking your client “how hard should I work?” The Reflexologist should always determine what pressure is required. The more experience – the easier this becomes – it is a learned skill.
8. What affects Tenderness?
Pain Killing medication (everything from aspirin onwards…)
Tension – Stress
Injury
Surgery – surgical scarring
Illness
All other Drugs – both prescription or over the counter drugs (and some herbs!)
Callous, corns, swellings etc
9. Are there any side effects to foot reflexology?
As with all types of reflexology whether it is feet, hands or ears, as well as other methods of hands-on-therapy healing, the client can become very drowsy after a foot reflexology session. This is an excellent sign and indicates the client may have moved into the “rest and repair” state otherwise known as parasympathetic mode. This is the state in which the body is able to allow healing to happen.
10. Will the client feel an immediate effect of the treatment?
Most clients report a sense of relaxation after a foot reflexology session has been carried out. However, while it is most likely there will be immediate internal effects, all symptoms that the client presented with, may not abate right away.
11. Can foot reflexology ever do harm to a person?
Reflexology of all types offers release of tension, relaxation, and promotes homeostasis in the whole body. It is safe to use a light pressure technique on everybody.
Universal College of Reflexology