What is Reflexology?

An Interview With Diana Heyer by Jane Thurnell-Read

You probably know that reflexology is a therapy to do with the feet, but what exactly is involved? I asked my friend, reflexologist Diana Heyer, to explain.

What is reflexology?

"Reflexology is a therapy which helps to stimulate the bodys own innate ability to heal itself. It works on the principle that there are reflex points in the feet relative to all the organs and glands in the body and that by working on these reflex points the therapist can help bring the body back into balance. For example, the brain is represented at the end of all the toes, and the stomach zone is on the instep of both feet. There is evidence that early Chinese, Egyptians and North American Indians used similar healing techniques.

"Reflexology is not a medical diagnostic tool. I could pick up an imbalance in the lung area, for example, but couldn't say its a particular lung condition. Very few reflexologists are medically trained. This can be an advantage. because it means you don't get bogged down in the medical side of things you treat the person as a whole person."

Who can benefit from it?

"Anybody and everybody from the newborn to the very elderly. It can be used in a preventive way, or to relieve a wide range of chronic and acute disorders, (both physical and emotional). Above all it imparts a deep sense of relaxation and well-being, and reduces stress."

What happens in a typical session?

"The first time you visit a reflexologist a full case history is taken. Then the treatment starts. You don't need to take your clothes off because the reflexologist will be working on your feet and ankles. I like to wipe over the feet with flower water to refresh and cleanse them. Then I put talcum powder on my hands to enable me to make contact with the feet without sticking some therapists prefer to use cream for this purpose.

"I work briefly on both feet at the beginning  of each session and do a couple of relaxation techniques. Then I start on the right foot working through each body system, and then do the same on the left foot. (Some therapists do each system on each foot, so swapping backwards and forwards - I feel I lose the flow working this way, but some reflexologists prefer it).

"At the end of treatment I massage both feet with oil and conclude by asking clients to take a few slow deep breaths. It's quite normal to feel very tired after your initial session, and sometimes after subsequent sessions. You need, if possible, to allow yourself some quiet time after a session. You also need to drink plenty of water to ensure that toxins released by the treatment are cleared properly."

How often is reflexology needed?

"It obviously varies, but, as a general guide, if I'm treating a particular condition, I would expect to see the person for 4 to 6 sessions in quick succession- probably once a week. After that I would expect to see them probably once a month. From experience I've noticed that reflexology seems to work particularly well for women if the appointment is scheduled a week before their period is due. If there is no real improvement after 4 sessions, it probably suggests that the therapy is not for that person. It's definitely a therapy that people respond to quickly." How can a good reflexologist be found?

"Personal recommendation is obviously the best, but you can check with one of the reflexology professional bodies for therapists in your area. Id also make sure that the therapist is fully insured."

Diana works in and around Penzance (Cornwall, UK), and can be contacted by clicking here.

Have a look at these reflexology case studies. Find a reflexologist - consult our worldwide therapist list.