Reflexology FAQ

What is reflexology?

 

Reflexology looks at the person as a whole, with body and mind in total balance. At times, you may lose this balance and different symptoms can negatively influence your well-being. Before physical symptoms appear, there is often an emotional imbalance already. 

During a massage treatment, specific reflex areas are handled by different techniques. The reflex zones on the sole are connected with your organs and muscles, therefore a reflexology treatment impacts your whole body. 

The goal is to reinstate the balance for optimal functioning of body, mind, and spirit. 

Reflexology is also suitable as a preventive therapy to help you keep this fine balance. This form of therapy has no negative side effects. 

What is the main difference between Western and Chinese reflexology?

 

Western reflexology works with different zones: each zone on the body corresponds with a zone of the body. By stimulating a specific area/point on the foot, the related organ can be treated. 

Chinese reflexology works differently. Important elements are

  • Qi - a constantly moving energy(unless this energy gets blocked)
  • Yin/Yang - a model based on continuous change and a very fragile balance between these two states
  • Meridians - there are 12 principal meridians running through the body (see below picture), each linked to an organ. These meridians have acupressure points on them, each serving a different function/task and points on the foot/leg can be very well stimulated during a reflex treatment. 

Also, different techniques are used in Western vs. Chinese reflexology. While in Western reflexology we more often use the "walking thumb", and pressure of one finger on a reflexzone, in Chinese reflexology the knuckle is used more often, and many of the areas are treated with a gliding technique. 

At Sole in Balance, a combination of these techniques is applied to enhance the positive effects of reflexology.

How can reflexology help?

 

Reflexology treatments can efficiently help alleviating

  • Stress complaints/burnout
  • Headache/migraine
  • Hip-/ pelvic complaints
  • Complaints of digestive system 
  • Menstruation/menopause problems (hormonal issues)
  • Pregnancy complaints
  • Emotional problems (anxiety, anger or grief)
  • Respiratory complaints 
  • Allergies etc. 

Reflexology is often used as a valuable addition to regular healthcare, but it is not meant to replace treatments of a doctor/specialist.

What safety measures are taken related to COVID-19?

Is reflexology safe during the pandemic?

 

I find it important to share more information on how I make sure that the treatments are conducted in a safe environment during this pandemic. The precautionary measures include but are not limited to

 

  • Possibility to disinfect hands before entering and leaving the practice
  • Disinfecting all surfaces before/after each client
  • Wearing a mask during treatments
  • Maintaining 1.5 meter distance during treatments (since most of the treatment is related to feet and lower legs, this is easily manageable)
  • Clients asked to bring their own towel for the treatment 

 

Also, a few days before the treatment all clients receive a reminder and a questionnaire asking them to cancel/reschedule if they or anyone in their close environment have symptoms of COVID-19.

More detailed information can be found here.

Can any complaint be handled with reflexology?

 

All organs are represented in the feet and therefore can be treated with reflexology. There are some contraindications such as thrombosis, acute hernia or certain points during pregnancy.

A reflexology treatment can not replace a doctor’s advice, but has added value to regular healthcare.

I am very ticklish. Is reflexology suitable for me?

 

This is something I hear more often from people who visit for the first time. While this concern is understandable, a treatment is done with firm hands and so it will not cause discomfort. 

Is reflexology painful?

 

Certain areas on your foot may be painful or more sensitive. This is normal. I will always check the level of sensitivity with you and we will stay within your pain limit. 

Depending on your situation, some of the massages may be more focused on your energy balance rather than an actual organ/organ system. Energy work is absolutely painless and can bring you in a state of balance as well.

How many treatments are needed?

 

Reflexology is not a quick fix. Although some people experience an improvement in their condition after 1-2 treatments, it is normal to go through several sessions before seeing a bigger impact.

 

Depending on the personal situation, we will evaluate the frequency and number of treatments needed. In general, around 5-6 weekly or bi-weekly treatments would be sufficient to handle most of the complaints with success. 

 

As prevention and to strengthen the immune system, one treatment per month is recommended. This treatment is aimed at treating all organ systems via the feet(and arms), stimulating and activating the self-healing faculties of the body, but also includes relaxing and soothing elements.

What is the difference between intake / follow up treatment?

 

During your first visit (intake), we will go through a questionnaire to discover more about your complaint(s). It is important for me to understand the complex picture so that I can prepare a tailored action plan for you. This anamnesis can take up to 30 minutes. The second part of your first visit is all about a relaxing reflexzone massage, focused on your main complaint. It also helps me to analyze the foot.

 

The follow up treatments are aimed at your main complaint and follow a set-up plan. After evaluation and your feedback, this plan can be adjusted according to your needs.

I have a different question, where can I ask?


You can reach me via the contact page on this website, at the info[at]soleinbalance.com email address, or feel free to call/WhatsApp for more info before your first visit (or anytime later). I aim to respond to emails in maximum 48 hours.