Reflexology
Pauline Priestley MFHT CNHC
Reflexology has been used for over 5,000 years, working on the principle that the reflexes on the feet mirror all parts of the body. Modern Reflexology was developed in the 1930′s. Stimulating the reflexes promotes the body’s natural healing processes and helps to restore a natural balance.
Reflexology is very relaxing. The client is only asked to remove shoes and socks and is made comfortable in a reclining chair designed for the treatment. The feet are cleansed and the treatment then lasts for approximately an hour. Where reflexology is being used to assist a particular condition a course of treatmemts will be beneficial. For those with some particular conditions such as diabetes, GP approval may be required before treatment can be given. Benefits of reflexology may include relief from stress, anxiety and tension, feelings of deep relaxation, improved mood, improved sleep and a general sense of health and well-being. Reflexology is often used alongside conventional care in hospices, hospitals and other healthcare settings.
Aromatherapy
A massage using essential oils contained in a base oil, the essential oils being chosen to suit the individual client’s needs. The treatment can be purely for relaxation or with a choice of specific oils to provide a therapeutic effect for a particular condition.
Therapeutic Massage
This is usually a full body treatment but can also be just on the back, neck and shoulders or tailored to the client’s needs. It is usually a firm massage but again, pressure is used suitable to the particular client. A therapeutic massage will help in two ways – physically and psychologically. Massage may reduce muscle stiffness or increase joint mobility and increase the feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Indian Head Massage
This massage concentrates on the head, shoulders, upper back and upper arms. It has developed from the ancient Ayurveda method encompassing mind body and spirit. Historically, it was practiced by Indian women on their children. Indian Head massage can help reduce tension, stress and stimulate circulation and can ease a stiff neck and shoulders. It can also help to improve the condition of the hair.
Massage treatments will last approximately an hour.
Pauline has a real interest in holistic treatments with a firm belief in the power of the body’s own healing process whilst being clear with her clients that it does not replace conventional medicine. Reflexology is Pauline’s greatest interest and she will continue to develop this and other therapies in the future through Continuing Professional Development. Pauline also hopes to develop her work to provide appropriate treatments for the elderly and those with dementia – she will be working on a voluntary basis in this field to help further her skills. She would hope that the therapies she will provide to clients will compliment those therapies and treatments offered by colleagues in the Malmesbury Chiropractic and Complementary Health Centre.
