Frequently Asked Questions

How long did it take you to qualify?

It took me a year to qualify with the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR). Each month, I attended a 2-day workshop, which covered:

  • Reflexology – Theory and Practice (Feet and Hands)
  • Anatomy, Physiology and common pathologies
  • Well Being
  • Complementary Therapy Practice

During this year, I was required to undertake a minimum of 100 hours of practical treatments, all of which were documented.  About a third of these hours formed the basis of the (6) case studies, which necessitated a formal write-up for assessment. The year culminated in a formal written theory (anatomy and physiology, and reflexology) exam and practical assessment. The pass mark was 80% for all assessments!

Why did you train with the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR)?

I started having reflexology myself in the 1990s. The treatments and their quality varied a lot; some treatments were excellent, and some were nothing more than a glorified foot massage, and some were somewhere in between.

When I was going through a prolonged period of medical treatment, I had reflexology regularly (2 weeks out of 3), and the reflexologist I saw during this time had trained with the IIR; these sessions were my salvation during a difficult few months.

When I decided to train as a reflexologist, the IIR was one of the first options I considered. I did look at other schools – but in the end, I couldn’t ignore how the Ingham Method had helped me personally, as well as the fact that the IIR is also the only school licensed to teach the original Ingham Method of reflexology.

Why are there so many different reflexology footmaps?

Each School of Reflexology will have its own copyrighted footmap.  Whilst there are many similarities, especially for the larger organs, it is important to remember that the organs, glands, nerves, etc are tightly contained within our bodies, so a few millimetres on a diagram is not significant.

The position of some point reflexes may vary very slightly, but the way in which we apply the pressure to the reflex (how we ‘access’ it) will make sure we are working the right reflex. As reflexologists – we use the maps and think about the physiology of the body when working the feet.

How do I maximise the benefit of my treatment?

To maximise the benefit of your treatment do as many the following as you can:

  • Rest as much as is possible; avoid energetic activity for a few hours
  • Drink plenty of water to help the elimination of toxins
  • Avoid coffee, tea, alcohol and tobacco/vaping
  • Eat light rather than rich food

If you have had Facial Reflexology or a Zone Face Lift Treatment:

  • If possible, avoid make-up for at least one hour after treatment to allow the skin to breathe

What can I expect after my treatment?

After a treatment, people often feel relaxed with an increased sense of wellbeing. However, everyone responds differently.

I work in a way that soothes the body to minimise, or, if possible, eliminate, the chance of an obvious reaction to the treatment. In any event, any response will be temporary and will go away on its own.

If you are concerned about any reactions that you experience following a treatment or have any other questions, please do call or text me on 07912 951763 or email [email protected]

What is Nerve Reflexology?

Nerve Reflexology was originally developed by Ellen and Walter Froneberg towards the end of the 20th Century, and subsequently expanded and completed by Norbert Gosch, Griet Rondel and Nico Pauly (who taught me). They have identified a number of points on the bones of the foot that show a direct link with certain parts of the nervous system. 

Nerve Reflexology works on the principle that  pressing on these ‘nerve reflexes’ may result in an immediate reaction in the corresponding nerve and the nerve tissues controlled by this nerve. Over the years, nerve reflexes, covering virtually all parts of the entire nervous system, have been developed.

When I use Nerve Reflexology I use a specific static pressure on the bones of the foot that is maintained on the reflex until the pain (of the pressure on the reflex on the foot) subsides. It forms part of a clinical reasoning assessment and treatment aimed at pain and is based on contemporary research on pain physiology.

What is the difference between Nerve Reflexology and Classic Reflexology?

I believe that Nerve Reflexology complements Classic Reflexology. In Nerve Reflexology:

  • We use a static pressure (Classic: we thumb walk – a lot)
  • We’re working on the bones of the foot (Classic: we work on the soft tissue)
  • Some points are painful to the client, some not (Classic: some clients may have tender areas on the feet, but often the therapist feels the imbalance first)
  • We maintain pressure on the painful reflex until the pain in the foot eases; this will vary between points (Classic: we may move off a tender area, or move to a gentle holding technique)
  • The result is directly and immediately noticeable (Classic: it may take time for the improvement to be noticed)

When would you use Nerve Reflexology?

I would use Nerve Reflexology to help you if you have particular issues with pain.

What is the difference between Palliative Reflexology and Classic Reflexology?

The only real difference is the pressure I use on the feet. It is a much gentler touch but is firm enough that it doesn’t tickle. Rest assured it is as effective as classic reflexology.

 

When would you use Palliative Reflexology?

I would use a lighter pressure if:

  • You want a light pressure
  • Your feet are very very sensitive
  • In certain circumstances, I would start with a gentler pressure and only build up if you want me to
  • You are, or have been, seriously ill, and you have been referred by the medical team for complementary therapy

What is Bergman Method Facial Reflexology?

Like foot reflexology, Bergman Method Facial Reflexology can help to improve your health and wellbeing.  It combines Zone Therapy (one of the founding principles of foot reflexology) with Native American techniques and Asian body maps that chart the reflex points on the face.  Their proximity to the brain means the facial reflexes are super sensitive and quick to respond to stimulation.  Reflexes out of balance are easily identified, helping you to improve your wellbeing.

However, by working on the reflexes on the face, there are some added benefits; the techniques:

  • stimulate natural production of collagen and elastin;
  • boost lymph drainage;
  • release muscle tension; and
  • increase blood circulation,

which can result in:

  • smoother skin;
  • improved skin tone;
  • reduced facial puffiness;
  • reduced signs of stress on your face; and
  • a healthy glow.

During this treatment (subject to confirming you are not allergic to any of the ingredients), I use Zone Face Lift Facial Elixir.  This gorgeous Elixir hydrates and tightens the sign, and has been shown to significantly reduce fine lines and help you look radiant. Zone Face Lift Facial Elixir is available to purchase from me.

Bergman Method Facial Reflexology training is approved by the Association of Reflexologists.

What is Zone Face Lift?

A natural facial treatment being heralded as a credible alternative to Botox and/or dermal fillers.

Zone Face Lift combines facial reflexology with ancient healing and pressure-point massage techniques, using Zone Face Lift Facial Elixir and specialist facial tools including a Jade Sculpting and Lifting Massager. Zone Face Lift Facial Elixir and the Jade Sculpting and Lifting Massager are available to purchase from me.

You can, of course, have a single treatment, which comprises a full facial reflexology treatment and the Zone Face Lift.

However, to get the best results, we recommend the Zone Face Lift Programme comprising weekly treatments for 12 weeks.  Included within this will be the occasional holistic facial, which will be timed to maximise the benefit of the treatment.

Zone Face Lift is approved by the Association of Reflexologists.

When would you use Bergman Method Facial Reflexology?

It depends on why someone is seeking to have a reflexology.  That said, it is largely a personal choice.  Not everyone likes having their feet touched; similarly, not everyone is comfortable having someone touch their face.

For some clients, I just(!) do foot reflexology; for others, just(!) Bergman Method facial reflexology.  Some have a combination of the two – starting with facial and finishing with foot reflexology.

If you are not sure, I can always offer you a taster of facial reflexology, so you can judge for yourself.

What is Reflexology Lymph Drainage?

Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is a specific sequence of classic reflexology moves. It focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet, the aim being to affect the lymphatic system in the body in such a way as promote lymph drainage. Sally Kay, whilst working in Cancer Care, developed the RLD sequence from first principles to emulate Manual Lymph Drainage in reflexology on the feet/hands. The results of the RLD delivered during the original study by Sally, and case studies completed by RLD practitioners (including me) since, strongly support the principles of reflexology.

Sally’s research treated women who developed lymphoedema after treatment for breast cancer.

Lymphoedema is a long-term condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but usually develops in the arms or legs; there is no cure currently. It develops when the lymphatic system does not work properly. The lymphatic system is a network of channels and nodes throughout the body that helps fight infection and remove excess fluid.

As survival rates improve, people are living longer with this physically and emotionally debilitating condition.

RLD may be used in a similar way to Manual Lymph Drainage, which is used to treat conditions other than lymphoedema, such as auto-immune conditions (including Rheumatoid Arthritis; Inflammatory Bowel Disease; Multiple Sclerosis; Psoriasis; Eczema, etc), allergies (such as hayfever), as well as Chronic Fatigue; Fibromyalgia, Headaches/Migraines, Sinus Problems; Muscular tension; Premenstrual Syndrome.

What is the difference between Reflexology Lymph Drainage and Classic Reflexology?

Reflexology Lymph Drainage is a specific sequence of Classic reflexology moves. Essentially it is a subset of a ‘typical’ classic reflexology treatment (if there is such a thing), but is designed in such a way to provide a whole body treatment.

When would you use Reflexology Lymph Drainage?

I would use RLD specifically if:

• you have oedema
• you are at risk of lymphoedema following surgery
• you need additional support in living with an auto-immune condition including Rheumatoid Arthritis; Inflammatory Bowel Disease; Multiple Sclerosis; Psoriasis; Eczema, etc
• you are living with an allergy such as hayfever
• you need additional support in living with conditions such as Chronic Fatigue; Fibromyalgia; Headaches/Migraines; Sinus Problems; Muscular tension; or Premenstrual Syndrome.

I also use elements of the RLD sequence if appropriate during a classic or nerve reflexology treatment.

What is Chi Medics?

Chi Medics is a unique wholistic therapy with foundations in Acupressure, Reflexology, and Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM). It is a balanced synergy of Chinese Philosophy, including CCM, Energy diagnostics, and acupressure.

What is the difference between Chi Medics and Classic Reflexology?

I believe that Chi Medics is closer to acupressure and the body’s energy systems than Classic Reflexology. Chi Medics techniques can be included as part of a Reflexology session; however, it is a powerful treatment in its own right. During a Chi Medics session:

  • We hold, press gently, or link specific points in sync with your breathing (Classic: we thumb walk – a lot)
  • We’re working on specific points; between the bones (Classic: we work only the soft tissue)
  • How we work the points (hold, press gently, or link) depends on the sensations we (you, the client, and I) feel.
  • If a point is tender, we are most likely to hold for four of your out-breaths. (Classic: we tend to move away from the area and return to it later)
  • Relaxation is an outcome of the treatment itself (Classic: techniques are used between working reflexes to relax you)
  • Each treatment concludes with a balance sequence; the sequence used will depend on your needs and may vary each time. These sequences have been described as balletic. They are fluid, are in sync with your breathing, and are a non-verbal cue that the treatment is coming to an end.

Chi Medics, while it is as deliberate and as specific as some elements of Classic Reflexology, Chi Medics is gentler and tends to be more rhythmic. It can be used alongside classic Reflexology, but it is a powerful treatment in its own right.

When would you use Chi Medics?

I have incorporated the opening and closing sequences in all my foot treatments. I find the opening sequence a great way to make that initial connection with you, through your feet, with the closing sequence giving a non-verbal cue that the session will finish shortly. Chi Medics techniques are suitable for anyone, but I find it most useful when things are multi-faceted, and, together, we need to distil it down to the nub of the issue.

Find Your Natural Balance With Reflexology