Elise J: "Lorraine is amazing, she put me at ease as soon as we sat down at the first reflexology session and always explains everything she is going to do in our sessions. The reflexology has really helped with some health issues and I always look forward to my appointment."
Reflexology (Foot/Hand) - What is it?
Reflexology is an holistic therapy, treating the body as a whole via the hands and/or feet. Because Reflexology is holistic in its approach, it may help address the cause of your problem and not just the symptoms you are currently experiencing.
Reflexology is a therapy which has been practised for thousands of years and there is evidence of the Egyptians practising a similar form of foot massage all those years ago.
It is based on the principle of stimulating nerve endings in the feet and hands. These specific points are called 'reflex points'.
The aim of Reflexology is to clear any blockages, which can indicate an imbalance or build-up of toxins in the body.
Treatment involves small, precise movements and pressure applied to specific areas of the feet and hands.
Cathy: "I recently had a lymph drainage foot massage with The Healing Tree and have felt the benefits instantly, it has literally lifted my spirits and eased my arthritis - thank you."
Reflexology Lymph Drainage ('RLD') - What Is It?
Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is a specific technique of working the feet or hands and which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes. Its aim is to stimulate the function of the lymphatic system and drain excess lymph. The technique can be included within a conventional Reflexology treatment, but can also be performed as a stand-alone treatment.
RLD was researched and developed by Sally Kay BSc (Hons) whilst working in Cancer Care, initially focusing on supporting those with Lymphoedema post treatment for breast cancer. However, it may be beneficial for many other conditions, namely:
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Eczema
- Chronic fatigue
- Lipoedema
- Fibromyalgia
- ME
- Sinus problems
- Migraines
- Headaches
- Muscular tension
- Aches and pains
- Premenstrual Syndrome
To read more about Reflexology Lymph Drainage, please CLICK HERE.
Vertical Reflexology Therapy ('VRT') - What Is It?
Vertical Reflexology Therapy works hand-in-hand with conventional Reflexology but can also be a stand-alone treatment of a shorter duration.
VRT is a form of Reflexology which works the top of the feet or hands in a weight-bearing position, eg. standing. Working the feet and/or hands in this way provides deeper access to the reflex points, with the nerves 'active' rather than passive, as they would be in a traditional Reflexology session. The result of which is often quicker results as the nerves send signals to the corresponding parts of your body.
During a session, VRT can be combined with traditional Reflexology and is often performed at the start or end of a session.
Developed by Lynne Booth over a period of years, please CLICK HERE to read more about VRT and Lynne's work.
Maternity Reflexology - What Is It?
Maternity Reflexology aims to optimise your health and wellbeing throughout your pregnancy, during labour and all aspects of postnatal support as you adjust both mentally and physically to your new arrival.
Although it may be an exciting chapter in your life, pregnancy may bring some stress and anxiety, together with pain and discomfort due to the changes your body is going through as your unborn baby develops.
Maternity Reflexology may assist with any of the following conditions you may experience during your pregnancy, including:
- Morning sickness
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Pelvic girdle pain/SPD
- Back pain
- Oedema
- Stress and anxiety
- Calming or stimulating the endocrine system
- Breech babies - if it's safe for them to turn!
Additionally:
- Stimulating your body pre-labour
- Calming your body during labour
- Postnatal: generally / breastfeeding / anxiety and depression
Who Can It Help?
Reflexology can assist in many areas of health and well-being and may help with conditions such as:
- Stress and Anxiety
- Aspects of Mental Health
- Insomnia and sleep disorders
- Support for the immune system
- Headaches and Migraines
- Sinus Congestion
- Circulation
- Mobility Issues
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome and digestive complaints
- Muscle stiffness/tightness
- Muscular-skeletal conditions - eg. frozen shoulder, back pain, etc
- Hormonal conditions
- Fertility issues, etc.
Because it is holistic and works your entire body via your feet/hands, Reflexology aims to assist in bringing your body into a state of balance and well-being. Therefore, it has the potential to assist with any condition you may currently be experiencing on some or all levels, as your body relaxes and re-balances and it may be your perfect treatment from a preventative approach.
What to Expect During a Reflexology Session?
Your Reflexology session takes place with you seated in a Lafuma (recliner chair) - ideal for having your feet elevated to aid circulation. The session can also take place with you on the massage couch should this be preferred.
As I only need access to your feet and/or hands, you need only remove your shoes and socks.
Reflexology is performed using precise thumb, finger or knuckle movements and I always apply pressure which is comfortable to you. You may experience some areas of tenderness, which may represent congestion, imbalance or an area which requires attention on your feet/hands or within your body.
Feet and hand reflexes can change in their response as they become active and chi (energy) flow is improved.
Angela M: "I highly recommend The Healing Tree and Lorraine. I was working in Maidstone and it was long hours and high pressure - I went to The Healing Tree for a massage and reflexology. Both were amazing and did the trick! It was a comfortable and relaxing environment and it was great to have the space to re-energise.
As a woman staying alone in a strange town you are particularly careful, but I can say Lorraine is very warm and welcoming and I felt completely at ease."
