Availability
Please note that I am not able to take on new clients at the present time.
Thank you for your interest. Please check back again later.
Bringing balance to the mind & body
Welcome to Reflexology Kernow
Hello, my name is Lindsey
I am a fully qualified and insured Reflexologist based in Cornwall, working from my tranquil base on Bodmin Moor with spectacular views over the moorland and Cornish countryside.
I gained my Diploma in Holistic Reflexology in 2017 from the Bristol School of Holistic Therapies, along with a distinction in Anatomy and Physiology.
Whether you would like support with an existing health condition, feel like you want to reduce your stress levels or would just like some relaxing time to yourself away from the hustle and bustle of life, then get in touch.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a complimentary therapy based on the principle that certain areas (reflexes) on the feet are connected to organs and systems in the body. The practice of Reflexology is rooted in traditional eastern medicine which describes the body as having a constant circulation of energy ('Ki'). By applying pressure and massage to reflex points on the feet or hands, the Reflexologist will seek to create a balance between systems by stimulating energy flow, relieving tension and promoting relaxation. This can be effective for reducing stress in people's lives and improving general wellbeing.
Reflexology is a holistic therapy, which means it treats the whole of the person on both an emotional and physical level to promote good health.
The history of Reflexology
The practice of Reflexology can be traced back to Ancient Egypt when drawings from the time show a medical practitioner treating a patient's hands and feet. It also has roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which describes energy (Ki) flowing around the body via meridians; this energy becomes blocked if there is an issue in the body and when it flows freely a balance and over all wellness occurs. In Ancient China specific points on the feet are used to initiate healing and local doctors still perform 'Rwu-Shu' (a type of Reflexology) today.
In India Ayurvedic medicine also used pressure on the feet. The feet are thought to symbolise the universe, and ancient foot charts contain Sanskrit symbols which have similarities to modern reflexology charts. Foot practice is also used in the Cherokee tribes in America who have passed their tradition of treating the body through the feet through the generations, and this is still practised within tribes today.
Reflexology was not introduced to the West until Dr William Fitzgerald developed 'Zone therapy' in the early 1900s, where reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone. Also in the 1930's, Eunice Ingham further developed this zone therapy into what is known as Reflexology - her opinion was that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.
The Treatment
On the first treatment I will carry out an initial consultation around your general health and lifestyle, allowing an assessment of your individual needs so the treatment can be tailored appropriately. You have the option to have Reflexology on either their feet or hands - some people choose to have a treatment on their hands if it is not appropriate for their feet, for example if they have a certain condition or are unable to raise their feet.
After a treatment your tension may be reduced and you might feel relaxed. You may also notice yourself sleeping better and find your mood and sense of wellbeing improving. You may also find that other aspects improve too; however, this happens on an individual basis.
Health
Scientifically, little is known about how Reflexology works and therefore a Reflexologist cannot claim to diagnose or cure a problem. It should only be offered alongside medical treatment for a specific health problem, and should never replace medical treatment.
Reflexology can be particularly helpful in managing many health conditions, especially constant or recurring ones that we might have come to accept over time as being a normal part of life. It can be effective for reducing stress and anxiety, reducing pain, lifting mood and improving general well being. In addition, people have reported that Reflexology helped them with:
- Boosting their immune system
- Getting over colds and bacterial infections
- Sinus issues
- Back problems
- Hormonal imbalances
- Fertility
- Improving digestion
- Easing arthritis pain
- Nerve problems and numbness from cancer drugs (peripheral neuropathy)
Improves sleep
Sense of well-being
Aids relaxation
Helps relieve tension
Improves mood
Forget your stress
Feeling happier
A few of the more common conditions that can be supported through Reflexology. It is usually safe to have Reflexology alongside conventional medicine, but if you are currently having any medical treatment please speak to your GP before booking an appointment.
Some frequently asked questions...
How many treatments will I need?
Everyone is different and the response to Reflexology can be immediate or sometimes take longer than one appointment, but often benefits can be seen after 4-5 sessions. Regular weekly treatments are best for the body properly beginning the self-healing process, and following an initial consultation I will suggest the number of Reflexology sessions I think we should undertake.
Should I keep on having Reflexology?
After an initial course of treatment many people choose to check in monthly for a top-up, to help maintain their general wellbeing, or as a scheduled 'de-stress'. Other clients will get back in touch if they start feeling aches and pains, arranging treatments as and when they need them.
Does reflexology hurt?
You might find some areas feel sensitive to the touch, but Reflexology does not involve hard pressing in the way something like a sports massage might. As a therapist I will be aware of the status of your feet, noticing how they feel, the temperature and colour. All these things play a part in understanding which areas of your body - as reflected through your feet - require a bit more care and attention.
Fees & availability
A session lasts 1 hour, plus 30 minutes for your first session which involves an informal chat and consultation about your lifestyle and health. This allows me to tailor the session to your individual needs. The cost of a treatment is £40.
UPDATE: Please note that I am not able to take on new clients at the present time.
Gift vouchers
Please contact me to arrange a Reflexology Kernow Gift Voucher, which can be sent via email or post to the recipient.
