Reflexology - some time for me

Reflexology – some time for me

Anyone who knows me, knows that my diary is always too full and I’m not very good at just taking time out.  But what mother is?  Let alone one, who spends 99% of the time parenting alone.  So when an email popped up in my inbox recently, I took it as a sign, slow down and chill out, if only for a few hours!  I was offered a session of reflexology – some me time, and I was looking forward to it.

So what is reflexology?

Reflexology is based on the theory that different points and areas on the feet, lower leg, hands, face and ears correspond with different areas of the body. Reflexologists believe that working these points or areas aids relaxation and helps improve wellbeing which can help us to cope better and can ease the stresses of modern life.

Reflexology - some time for me

This diagram shows the various pressure points on the feet and if you click through here you can see which points relate to which parts of the body.  It’s quite fascinating.

I’d had a taster session a few years ago at a ladies pamper night, but didn’t really feel that relaxed in the environment, and didn’t leave feeling that convinced.  I was very interested to try again and see what happened.

The session was arranged for me through the Association of Reflexologists, with one of their local members, so I knew I would be in good hands, quite literally.  I would be treated by a local therapist from Wellbeing with Alison, and Alison would be coming to my house.

Time for a quick toy tidy up – anyone who has been here, will know how funny that is.  But space was cleared and Alison arrived with her therapy chair, yes there was adequate space even in my little living room.

Reflexology - some time for me
copyright: Wellbeing with Alison

My session with Wellbeing with Alison would last one and half hours, including a half hour pre-treatment assessment.  As part of this assessment Alison asked me about any medical conditions, allergies and my general well being.  This would give her some indication of areas that may need particular work, offering a more tailor-made therapy session.

One thing we did talk about was my hormones.  As regular readers will know, I suffer with PMS and it seems to be getting worse .  Alison noted this and mentioned that she would include an Endocrine Balance step as part of her treatment plan as this works well with hormonal balancing .  Fingers crossed.

Once Alison had set her treatment chair up, I sat down, and was reclined, with supports under both my knees and feet.  I was also given a blanket in case I felt cold during the session.  This was a lovely touch, I always feel cold unless it’s 90 degrees in the shade!

I did wonder whether I would actually relax during my reflexology session, but I really needn’t have worried.  I switched my phone on to silence, Alison began and within minutes I was totally relaxed.  It was really interesting to note the different sensations when Alison worked different pressure points on my feet.  Some areas were really quite intense (not painful), but a strong feeling, in others areas it was more of a flutter.  Reflexology is so much more than a foot massage, trust me.

The hour’s treatment zoomed past, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.  I felt totally relaxed at then end of it. Reflexology – some time for me, and a rare opportunity to lie down and stop the clock.

Once the treatment had finished Alison talked me through her feelings from the session, which she followed up with some notes by email.  She also advised me to drink plenty of water and to sit still for 5-10 minutes and just be calm for a while before returning to the madness of the day.

I’d been warned that I might experience some side effects – anything from feeling very tired, to slight bowel issues.  I certainly slept well, which is always a bonus, and have just felt calmer.  My period started the week after my appointment and over the last few weeks I can see that I’ve been more balanced hormonally. Everyone here sighs with relief on that one!

I was intrigued with my reflexology session and I want to book a session with Alison after I get back from Spain before BritMums to see if she can feel any improvements.  I’d certainly recommend trying a session to others and you can find your nearest therapist or centre here.

disclaimer:  I was given a free taster session in exchange for an honest review

 

 

2 thoughts on “Reflexology – some time for me

  1. I’ve always been slightly fascinated by reflexology. I have a friend who is about to train in it, so I may offer to be her guinea pig when the time comes.

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