Reflexology : Frequently Asked Questions
“Is reflexology safe if I am pregnant?”
Yes, but it is recommended that you avoid treatments during the first 12 weeks, when your body is adjusting to hormonal changes. This also applies to Indian head massage and Thai foot massage.After 12 weeks, expectant mothers often find reflexology extremely helpful in coping with morning sickness, tiredness and common ailments associated with pregnancy.
“Is reflexology safe for children and the elderly?”
Yes. Even newborn babies respond well to reflexology. With young children and the elderly, a treatment is often shorter and pressure is lighter. We assess each client individually to establish the right degree of treatment.Mothers can now learn to give their babies reflexology treatment themselves, which Donna would be happy to discuss with you.
“Is reflexology safe for the terminally ill?”
Yes. Reflexology can do no harm, only good. In fact it can be extremely helpful in relaxing the client and helping them to cope with the emotional side of their illness. Reflexology has also been known to assist with relieving pain. It may be appropriate to apply less pressure or shorten a treatment if the client is very unwell.
“How often should I have reflexology?”
It is totally safe to have reflexology daily. However, this is not always practical! Clients typically have a weekly treatment to help to relieve particular conditions. Once they feel that their body is balanced, they might move to fortnightly and then monthly sessions for maintenance treatments or purely for relaxation. Other clients have reflexology on an ad hoc basis, as a treat.
If you have an acute condition, we would advise you to have reflexology as frequently as possible until your symptoms are alleviated, then revert to a more regular routine.
The ideal frequency of treatment will depend on the individual client’s needs. But as a general rule we would recommend having between six and ten weekly treatments.
“How does reflexology work?”
Reflexology is based on the principle that there are reflexes on the feet and hands that correspond to all organs, glands and parts of the body. A reflexologist uses his or her fingers and thumbs to stimulate these reflexes, promoting balance and relaxation, and improving circulation. For more information, see Healing Hand’s main reflexology page and Blog Articles.
“Is reflexology painful?”
No – but it can be uncomfortable at times. If a reflex is out of balance or has an energy build-up, it might be tender and sore. Your reflexologist will take time to work this reflex until it becomes normalised. The reflexology routine includes lots of very pleasant, relaxing techniques that far outweigh any discomfort!
“Does reflexology tickle?”
No, not at all. The reflexologist uses quite a firm pressure to support and work on your feet.
“How do I know which reflexologist to choose?”
You should seek a reflexologist who is a member of a reputable organisation such as the British Reflexology Association. Donna at Healing Hands is fully qualified member of this and numerous other Associations.
If you would like to know what some of our clients have said about us, please read our testimonials here.
If you would like some more information, please get in contact.
Massage : Frequently Asked Questions
“What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?”
Donna will require you to answer some questions whilst she fills out a consultation form.
Afterward she will begin by asking you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if massage is appropriate for you.
Donna may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints.
It is important to list all health concerns and medications so that Donna can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm.
It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if he/she needs to use a different oil or lotion during the session.
“”What do I do during a massage treatment?”
Make yourself comfortable. If Donna wants you to adjust your position, she will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.
Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
“How long will a massage treatment last?”
The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60 to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
“Will the massage hurt?”
This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that doesn’t probe very deep into the muscles, shouldn’t hurt. With that being said, there is a ‘feels good’ hurt and an ‘ouch, stop it’ hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the ‘feels good’ hurt range.
Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure should be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body’s natural response, not against it
“How often should I get a massage?”
“Some is better than none.”
What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 2-4 weeks may be fine for you.
However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule.
Frequency of sessions should be discussed with Donna after your treatment when she has a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.
“What is the best type of massage?”
There is no one “best” type of massage, as the ideal massage for a person will depend on their individual needs and preferences. Some common types of massage include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, and sports massage. Swedish massage is a gentle form of massage that uses long strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the top layers of muscles.
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is often used to treat chronic aches and pains, and to release muscle tension. Hot stone massage involves the use of smooth, heated stones that are placed on the body to provide warmth and relaxation. Sports massage is a type of massage that is specifically designed to help athletes prepare their bodies for optimal performance, recover after a big event, or function well during training. Ultimately, the best type of massage for you will depend on your specific needs and goals.
It may be helpful to consult with your massage therapist to determine the best type of massage for you.
“Can I have massage if I’m pregnant?”
Yes, pregnant women can generally benefit from massage therapy. Massage can help to reduce stress, alleviate aches and pains, and improve circulation. However, it is important for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before receiving a massage and to inform the massage therapist of their pregnancy.
Pregnant women may need to avoid certain types of massage or to modify their massage in order to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mother and the baby. For example, pregnant women may need to avoid certain pressure points, lie on their side rather than their stomach, or use special cushions or pillows to support their growing belly. A massage therapist with experience working with pregnant women will be able to adapt the massage to meet the specific needs of the client.
Donna provides a special ‘pregnancy’, massage – where the client is placed on her side and supported by cushions, she will also communicate with you, throughout the session, to ensure that you are comfortable and will also, bring the massage to an end, if you are in any was uncomfortable.