More people are turning to reflexology as a way to maintain natural health and wellbeing. In
recent times, it has gained so much momentum and credibility that it is widely available through
hospitals and GP surgeries as a natural therapy to help the body heal and recover. Sadly, there
are still many sceptics who consider reflexology an alternative therapy and question the benefits
it can offer, despite there being a wealth of evidence to the contrary.

So, here are my top 3 reflexology misconceptions that some people have that will better inform
you exactly what reflexology is and how it can benefit you.

It’s just a massage, right?

Wrong. While reflexology uses some massage techniques to warm up the muscles and prepare
you for treatment, it is so much more than a massage. It uses systematic pressure to restore
your body’s natural healthy balance. While it is as relaxing as massage, by applying stimulation
and pressure reflex points corresponding to organs and systems of the body, it can offer you
relief from pain, increased circulation, reduced tension, providing a balanced internal energy
flow.

Reflexology hurts

Although reflexology does mean that firm pressure is applied, this should never be painful. As a
reflexologist, I am sensitive and responsive, maintaining good communication with my clients so
they can let me know if I need to reduce the amount of pressure I am applying.

Generally, reflexology is a gentle therapy, so any tenderness may come from particular reflex
points that need extra pressure to restore balance. However, for many clients who have medical
conditions require a lighter, gentler pressure.

Reflexology can diagnose illness

First and foremost, reflexology is a complementary therapy, and it does not replace conventional
medicine and should never be used in place of seeking medical advice. A reflexologist cannot
diagnose illness or disease, or claim to replace prescribed medicine.

A professional reflexologist can identify areas of concern and suggest a client consult a doctor
for further investigation. However, as reflexology is a holistic therapy, treating the person and not
their condition, so any problem areas identified could be affected by a range of different factors.

Hopefully, I have gone some way to dispelling some of the misconceptions that surround
reflexology. For many clients, reflexology is a way to restore the body’s natural balance,
stimulating the body’s natural ability to heal and recover. For more information about reflexology
and how it can help you, please get in touch.