Frequently Asked Questions

Reflexology may help reduce stress, improve relaxation, enhance circulation and support better sleep.

"Stress" is one of the most commonly used words in today’s society.

Did you know that the word “stress” is derived from the Latin word “stringere” which means ‘to draw tight’ (or 'uptight’)?  

A large proportion of disease is stress related.  Certain demands of modern everyday living can take their toll.  However, there are things we can do to ease our response to it and in turn lessen our exposure.

Reflexology induces a state of deep relaxation making it a great contribution to the health of our mind, body and emotions.  As treatments continue over time the state of relaxation we experience becomes deeper and more established.  The mind, body and emotions are not separate: what affects one, affects all. 

Reflexology is generally not painful.  The pressure applied should be firm but not uncomfortable.  Similarly, many clients who have ticklish feet enjoy foot reflexology because the pressure used is firm and specific to that person.  

Feedback on your comfort level is essential to adjusting the pressure accordingly.  You can feedback to your therapist both during and after the treatment; just whenever it is best for you.

On your arrival your therapist will ask a few essential questions before your treatment can begin, including details of your health history.  You will then find out what will happen before, during and after the treatment.  Your therapist will always keep in mind what you have told them and tailor any treatments to you.

There are currently two treatment lengths offered for you to choose between: 30 minutes and 45 minutes.  This helps to make reflexology as accessible as possible.  Each and every treatment will be worked differently, depending on your bespoke treatment plan and what your reflex areas reveal during the treatment. 

If you have never attended a reflexology session, or seen a therapist of a kind, a reflexology treatment may seem like a daunting idea!  Wondering what to wear?  The short answer is: loose, comfortable clothing.  You’ll want to feel relaxed and unrestricted during the session.  Think soft t-shirts, sweatpants or loungewear and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen (to help regulate your body temperature).  

Though not essential, slip-on shoes such as sandals or flip-flops will make it easy to remove footwear with minimal fuss, as well as put it on again afterwards.  You may like to bring warm socks if your feet get cold easily to wear after the session.  Just remember to avoid accessories like tight belts, big or weighty jewellery, or anything that might dig in or disturb you.  

Before the treatment can commence a few details about your health will be taken.  If it’s your first visit, it's a good idea to bring health info such as a list of medications or any relevant medical history.  You may like to bring your own water bottle to help flush out toxins after treatment (though water will of course be at hand).

You’ll only need to remove your shoes and socks for the treatment.  The aim is to feel as relaxed as possible - as though you’re stepping into a mini retreat.

Indeed it can be beneficial to combine reflexology with other therapies such as massage, acupuncture, aromatherapy and yoga.  They can help to amplify the benefits of relaxation and stress relief.  Complimentary therapies can support recovery and well-being.  

It's important to remember that reflexology is not a substitute for medical treatment or advice.  

Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning a therapy especially if you have chronic conditions or are undergoing treatment.  

In some cases, it's essential to complete a course of conventional treatment before starting a complementary therapy because some complementary therapies can interfere with conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.  Your medical practitioner may recommend you complete the primary treatment first to ensure the best possible outcome before introducing a complimentary therapy.  

Always discuss with your doctor in the first instance and let your therapist know about all treatments and medication you are on.

A light-filled space can be an excellent environment for reflexology.  Natural light contributes to a sense of openness, calm and wellbeing - qualities that enhance the overall therapeutic experience.  This works works so well for a number of reasons:

Mood enhancement: Sunlight helps boost serotonin levels, which can elevate mood and promote relaxation - perfect for reflexology sessions.

Connection to nature: A bright room with views of greenery or gardens can deepen the sense of tranquillity and grounding, aligning beautifully with the holistic nature of reflexology.

Visual comfort: Soft, natural light is easier on the eyes than artificial lighting, helping you to feel more at ease and present during your treatment.

Should you try to close your eyes while you have a few rare minutes to sit peacefully and soak up the enchanting surroundings?  Talking versus silence: what’s best?  

The answer is: you absolutely can talk during a reflexology treatment.  Whether you do so or not depends entirely on your comfort and preference.  If you're new to reflexology, talking can help you feel more at ease.  People often find that being quiet and still allows them to unwind, to tune into their body and surroundings, and to enjoy the meditative rhythm of reflexology.  On the other hand, silence can deepen relaxation.  Whatever you choose, your therapist is trained to adapt to your vibe.  

If you fall asleep during the treatment it's still possible for your therapist to work on any reflex points that have been identified during a treatment and for your feet to feed back information to your therapist.

There's no set way to each session.  The ideal approach would be to begin with a brief conversation and share any concerns or preferences.  If you feel yourself relaxing into a comfortable silence, it’s perfectly natural.  Ultimately, this is your treatment and your time.  Whether you want to chat, consider the big or small stuff in life, or zone out, the treatment will support you.

If at any time you would like your therapist to adjust the pressure, or if something feels uncomfortable, then always speak up.

The zero-gravity chair has been designed keeping in mind the exact concept of zero gravity position.  In this position our whole body weight is equally lifted so that tension in your body drops and stress simply melts away.  

Did you know that the 127° position of the reflexology chair (like that at Stocks Green Reflexology) is the one that NASA astronauts use during ignition and take-off to give them immediate relaxation and stress reduction?  

In this reclined position, where the heart, back and legs are aligned, your body is free from its own weight.  This means breathing may be easier, because angle between the torso and the thighs allows for improved oxygenation; there may be reduced muscular tension in the lumbar region; circulation may be improved in the lower limbs; and the effort required from the heart is lessened.  

All this from the inclination of a chair!

The number of sessions needed varies from person to person.  Some people may experience benefits after just one session, while others may require multiple sessions for more noticeable results.  Let your therapist know any expectations, thoughts or concerns you have, so that they can discuss this and work through anything with you. 

There is growing evidence around reflexology in areas such as cancer symptoms, pain relief, fertility and relaxation.  More research is being conducted every day.  

There are several excellent places to look for credible research evidence which supports the work of complementary therapy (including reflexology).  The key is to use trusted, peer‑reviewed, and regulator‑approved sources so you know the information you read is compliant with UK advertising and professional‑practice rules. 

Whether or not you have tried reflexology before, you may be wondering if it will live up to any expectations, or how you may get the most out of a session (or sessions).  You may also be wondering whether reflexology could be your preferred complimentary therapy going forward.  

It's your treatment.  

Let your therapist know of any expectations, thoughts or concerns you have, so that they can discuss this, work through any issues with you and take everything into consideration.  

Your therapist will consider which parts of your feet to work on based on the initial consultation which includes your health history, any changes to your health between treatment sessions, and anything that may present during the course of a treatment.  Your therapist will always keep in mind what you have told them and note any discoveries, including sensitivity.  It may be that more time is spent on a particular reflex area as a result of any findings.  

Feedback to your therapist during or after the treatment; whenever it is best for you.

We know that footwear choices can result in a tight feeling of the feet (as can other factors) and that you can feel tightness in your feet despite them not being swollen.  If you can, set your feet free of shoes, socks even!  A lot of people will wear shoes when they’re not in the comfort of their own homes. There are however situations where it might be appropriate to go barefoot.

Your feet are highly rich in sensory.  They can sense pain, temperature, touch or pressure.  Then there's proprioception which refers to receptors in your joints, muscles, and the tendons of your foot and the way they feedback to your brain about the position and movement of your foot.  What a remarkable and complex structure the foot is.   Some simple Do’s and Don’ts:

DO

Remove hard skin with a foot file;

Keep the skin on your feet soft and hydrated with moisturiser;

Wear footwear that suits your foot shape;

Improve circulation and keep joints moving by walking (even if it’s just round the house).

DON'T

Reduce circulation by sitting with your legs crossed;

Use corn plasters/paste as they contain acids that can break the skin down which may lead to infection;

Pick corns or calluses as this can lead to infection;

Apply moisturising cream to corns between toes.

Notes: Applying cream in between your toes can cause the delicate skin to break down | Foot balms are best used after a foot file | Balms and salves work best at night time as this allows them to soak in better | Balms can be slow to soak in so wear clean, preferably cotton, socks over your feet after application to avoid slipping.