Frequently Asked Questions
What is reflexology?
Reflexology is a holistic touch therapy that treats the whole body. Reflexologists use massage techniques to bring about a state of relaxation by applying varying pressure to certain points on the feet, hands and face called reflexes. These reflexes mirror the systems, organs and glands of the body and by working them, we help the body to restore balance, promote recovery, stimulate healing and boost resilience. Applying gentle massage pressure to these reflex points stimulates blood flow and a nervous reaction in the foot that has a corresponding healing effect throughout the body via capillary and nervous tissue networks. Reflexology aims to increase the body’s circulation of both blood and lymph, open up neural pathways and boost the immune system.
What can reflexology do for me?
Reflexology is a holistic treatment that treats the body as a whole or supports the body's own healing process to target specific issues. Reflexology may help to:
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Reduce stress and induce deep relaxation of body and mind
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Improve circulation of blood and lymph
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Promote elimination of toxins and waste products
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Encourage a state of balance in the way the body functions
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Reduce anxiety
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Regulate sleep
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Rebalance hormones
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Boost the immune system
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Encourage the body to heal current disorders or past traumas
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Assist with post-operative recovery
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Provide a nurturing human touch interaction
What is reflexology lymph drainage (RLD)?
Reflexology Lymph Drainage is a ground-breaking and multi-award-winning technique originally developed to help reduce lymphoedema in clients who have had breast cancer, but clinical experience now suggests that it is useful for clients with non-cancer related auto immune disorders such as Rheumatoid arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, IBS, eczema, allergies, ME, migraine, lipoedema and post-operative recovery.
What should I expect from a reflexology session?
At the start of your first session, we will carry out a confidential medical and lifestyle consultation so that I can personalise your treatment. You will receive a reflexology treatment that considers the current state of your mind and body and seeks to alter symptom patterns and bring about a state of wellbeing. You will be asked to take off your shoes and socks and helped to get comfortable on a reclining therapy chair, where you can relax under a blanket with your feet and lower legs exposed. Following a foot and ankle massage, you will receive reflexology using a medium such as oil, reflexology wax or powder. I will provide feedback at the end of the session and suggest after care and a follow-on treatment plan. You do not need to remove any clothing for Facial Reflexology, apart from any items that cover the face and neck.
What are your clinic hours?
Tuesday: 5:30-8pm
Wednesday: 1-8pm
Thursday: 1-8pm
Friday: 10am-1pm
Saturday: Two-three Saturdays a month
Appointment times are subject to availability. Please note initial appointments will be 10-15 minutes longer to allow for a confidential medical and lifestyle consultation.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
I completely understand that plans sometimes change. If you are unable to make an appointment, I request that you give me a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to allow me the option to re-book the time slot with someone on my waiting list. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged a fair-use fee of 50% of the cost of the treatment. This fee will be required to be settled prior to the confirmation of any future bookings. No shows will be charged 100% of the treatment fee. If a cancelled treatment is part of a block package of treatments, one full treatment will be deducted from your block for every cancellation made with less than 24 hours’ notice. As a small business, I appreciate your understanding in this matter.
Are you qualified and insured?
I qualified in reflexology at the London School of Reflexology and have also been trained in Reflexology Lymph Drainage by Sally Kay. I am a qualified practitioner in Advanced Facial Reflexology having been trained by Ziggie Bergman. I am a member of the Association of Reflexologists and am fully insured. I also hold a Level 3 Diploma in Teaching Mat Pilates, with specialism in Pilates for menopause and pelvic floor health, and am trained in First Aid.
Do you do mobile visits?
A limited number of mobile appointments are available on request. A fee of £5 will be added to the usual treatment cost for mobile visits. Please contact me to enquire about availability.
Do you do corporate visits?
Workplace wellness sessions and corporate days are available by prior appointment. Please contact me to discuss.
Where are you based and how do I get there?
My private treatment space is within my home in Bromley North. It is a 10-minute walk from Bromley High Street, with bus stops close by, as well as train stations at Bromley North and Sundrige Park. There is on street parking available and I can supply visitor parking permits should your visit coincide with a time this is applicable. Full address will be provided when your first booking has been confirmed.
How accessible is your treatment space?
Treatments are carried out on a Lafuma XL reclining chair, which has a wider seat and is suitable for taller clients, supporting up to 150kg. If you would like a bit more support, we can adapt the treatment to make you comfortable and relaxed. My treatment room is on the ground floor with one step over the threshold of the front door into the house. If you use a wheelchair or mobility aid, please get in touch and we can discuss what is possible.
Is there a toilet available?
The treatment room has a recently renovated ensuite private bathroom for client’s use.
What should I wear for my reflexology session?
I suggest you wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can relax in and layers to keep warm. I will need access to your feet and lower calves to give foot reflexology.
Is reflexology safe during pregnancy?
Absolutely. Reflexology is a wonderful and safe treatment to have during your maternity journey. I accept pregnant clients from 13 weeks onwards.
Do you treat children?
Reflexology is a therapy which can be received by anyone at any age, from newborn babies to those receiving end of life care, and everyone in between. For children below the age of 16, written parental consent needs to be given before or during the first consultation and a parent or guardian should be present throughout the treatment.
Will reflexology cure me?
Reflexology does not claim to cure or diagnose. However, it can stimulate the body's own healing power and can re-balance the body.
I have Athlete’s Foot/verrucae, can I still have a treatment?
I am not able to touch any area of the foot with Athlete’s Foot or a verruca as they are contagious. Both can be easily treated using an over-the-counter remedy from your local pharmacy. For Athlete’s Foot, once the infection has cleared, please get in touch and I would love to see you for a treatment. If you have a verruca, please put a small plaster over it and I can work around the area.
What if I fall asleep?
It will be a huge compliment if you do! Again, people often worry about snoring or their tummy gurgling as they relax. Please don't worry - all of it is totally normal and happens to everyone. If you fall asleep, it means I am doing my job properly!
Should I stop taking the medicine my doctor prescribed me?
Absolutely not! Reflexology should complement any treatment you are receiving from medical professionals, not replace it. It is worth mentioning to your health care professional that you are having reflexology, but always follow their advice.
How will I feel after reflexology?
After treatment you may experience some of the following reactions: tiredness, heightened emotions, runny nose, disrupted/deep sleep, vivid dreams, headaches, increased discharge. These are perfectly normal and are a good thing! They are known as 'healing response' and show that toxins are being removed from the body and the body is healing itself. After you have received reflexology, it is important to:
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Rest – you should feel relaxed after your treatment, so take things easy for the rest of the day as you readjust, reorientate and your body absorbs the effects of reflexology. Your body and mind may need quiet time or sleep so let that happen if you can.
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Hydrate – drink plenty of water and stay hydrated so that the toxins that have been released can be eliminated.
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Balance – avoid too many stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, heavy meals, or recreational drugs for the next 24 hours. Let your body rebalance.
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Observe – it’s normal to experience some emotional and physical effects from your reflexology treatment and usually these symptoms pass within 24-48 hours, so it’s worth noting them down and we can discuss during your next session.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes, gift vouchers for any monetary value can be purchased in person or can be mailed out (postage charges apply). Please note that gift vouchers are valid for six months from purchase and cannot be exchanged for cash.
If you have any other questions not answered here, please email Victoria Legg MAR at vicky.legg@gmail.com.