What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is an ancient healing art that was first practiced in India, China and Egypt thousands of years ago.
It became prominent in America in the 1910’s through the work of Dr. William Fitzgerald, a ear, throat and nose surgeon, who noticed that pressure on specific parts of the body had an anaesthetising effect on a related area.Developing this theory he concluded that reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas and organs of the body.
In the 1930’s, Eunice Ingham, a therapist, further developed and refined Fitzgerald’ work into present day reflexology. She noticed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors that in corresponding parts of the body, and treating the whole foot can have a relaxing and healing effect on the whole body.
How can Reflexology help one's Health?The body has the ability to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, it is in a state of imbalance, and the vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can be used to restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and balance, as well as energising sluggish or disfunctioning systems and encouraging the body to relax and heal itself naturally.
A reflexologist uses hands only to apply gentle pressure to the feet. For each person the application and effect of the therapy is unique. Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances, and by working these points the reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. The feet are a reflection of a person’s health, giving insight into what areas of the body are congested, out of balance or low in energy. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself at its own pace, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.
Who can benefit from Reflexology?Since reflexology treats the whole person, not the symptoms of disease, most people benefit from treatment. The therapy brings relief to a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, and is suitable for all ages. Once your body is in tune, it is wise to have regular treatments in order to maintain health and well-being. An increasing number of people are using this safe, natural therapy as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonizing the body.
Reflexology is great for providing relief from all sorts of conditions and transforming the lives of thousands of people.
A range of medical benefits have so far been identified by clinical studies, medical tests or monitoring. These have shown that reflexology can
Relieve stress, insomnia, pain, headaches, constipation, asthma, hayfever, sinusitis, fatigue, hypertension, IBS, anxiety, migraines, back pain, eye strain, low energy, menstrual and menopausal imbalance.
Strengthen digestion and distribution / absorption of nutrients helping overall bone, tissue and blood health.
Stimulate elimination of wastes and toxins from the body.
Improve circulation of blood and lymph, helping the body work more efficiently increasing vitality and energy.
Aid pre and post operative recovery.
About Caroline Macdonald
Caroline is a full member of the British Registry of Complementary practitioners and was certified in 2000 after a years diploma course in Reflexology, Anatomy & Physiology and Indian Head Massage, at the Bridge Project, East London. For years Caroline practiced from a Clinic in the heart of London, providing her with valuable clinical experience. She also spent some time in California, studying Acupressure, Chi Gong, Tui Na Massage and Healing Imagery work at Berkeley's Acupressure Institute.
Caroline practices from the healing environment of the Orchid and works with a range of conditions including digestive issues, stress, hormonal imbalance, fertility, general detoxing, back pain, insomnia and fatigue.
What happens when you go for Treatment?On your first visit you will be asked to complete a general medical questionnaire, so that I have a clear idea of your past and present health, your lifestyle, diet and main stressors. Everything you share is kept in the strictest confidence.
Then you need only to take off your shoes and socks, and lie back and relax on the massage couch, while your feet are worked on with a firm pressure applied by the fingers and thumb. As I work the reflex and acupressure points on the feet, I will be noting tender and congested areas. There may be discomfort in some areas, but this is usually fleeting, and is an indication of congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. I bring my own unique flavour to these treatments, informed by the various healing arts which I have studied over the years in England & the U.S.A.
For the most part the sensation is pleasant and soothing and you will find the reflexology relaxes you as well as stimulating your bodies own healing mechanisms.
A treatment lasts an hour. A course of treatments are often recommended especially if the client has a chronic condition that has been building up for years. This I will discuss this with you at the first session. After the first treatment or two your body may respond in a very definite way: you may have a feeling of well-being and relaxation, or you may feel lethargic, nauseous or show signs of detoxing, but this is transitory. It is, however, vital information for me, as it shows how your body is responding to treatment.
PricePrice - £42 per session, Gift vouchers are available, Please note 24 hours cancellation is required or a cancellation fee will be incurred. Additional InformationIf you have any questions or are unsure if reflexology is appropriate line of action for you, please do not hesitate to contact me. I welcome phone calls, texts and emails.
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07972 143 106
To make an appointment contact the Orchid Retreat directly on 020 8446 8884 or 020 8343 7772
Caroline Macdonald BRCP
I am a full member of the British Register of Complementary Practitioner.
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