Frequently Asked Questions
The number of reflexology sessions you book is entirely up to you, depending on what you hope to gain from reflexology. Everyone is different and the response to reflexology can be immediate or take longer than a single session. Often benefits can be seen after 4-5 sessions and therefore in some cases regular weekly treatments are best to begin with for the self-healing process to occur. However, reflexology can also be enjoyed as relaxing pamper session, so treat yourself or a loved one!
Prior to your treatment you will need to complete a consultation form. You will need to provide an accurate medical history and an emergency contact number. The consultation process usually takes around 10-15 minutes and may be done over the phone, or in some cases in person before the treatment.
Prior the treatment you will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and roll up your trouser legs to the knee if possible, then you will be made comfortable on a reclining chair, supported by pillows and covered with a soft blanket to keep warm.
During the treatment you are welcome to close your eyes and go to sleep, or to make conversation with your reflexologist. Your reflexologist will be guided by you.
We offer flexible appointment times to fit around busy lifestyles, our general availability is as follows, however please contact us if an alternative day or time is required as we may be able to accommodate you.
Monday - 9:00am - 7:00pm
Tuesday - 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday - 9:00am - 7:00pm
Thursday - 9:00am - 7:00pm
Friday - 9:00am - 7:00pm
Saturday - 9:00am - 1:00pm
Reflexology is generally a relaxing treatment, however, you may find that some areas are sensitive to the touch. If you experience any discomfort during your treatment, let your reflexologist know so that appropriate adjustments can be made. Reflexology uses a light pressure, but if this is uncomfortable for you then the pressure can be reduced.
Reflexologists cannot claim to diagnose or cure any illnesses. However, during a treatment we may note reflexes which appear to be out of balance, this can be discussed with you at the end of the session if you would like.
Please wear comfortable clothing, and access to the feet is essential for all treatments. It is preferable to wear loose fitting legwear, that comfortably rolls up to the knee, as we will massage the lower leg when it is accessible. Please wear old or dark coloured clothing as it is possible that some materials may be stained by the products used on the legs and feet.
On Mersea Island, the road that connects the island to the mainland can become flooded by the high tide which occurs twice a day. The high tide is not always high enough to cover the road, but when it does, it is generally wise to avoid crossing the Strood an hour prior to high tide, and an hour after high tide. It is the responsibility of the client to check the tide times prior to booking an appointment. If you need any advice or assistance please contact us and we will be happy to help you. For more information on tide times and height please visit West Mersea Tide Times.
The known benefits of reflexology are as follows:
- Release of tension
- Relaxation
- Improved mood
- Aids sleep
- Promotes well-being
The body can respond in different ways to a treatment, and side-effects vary widely from person to person. These reactions to the treatment are seen as a sign of the body beginning the healing process and can be very subtle. Some common effects during and following a reflexology treatment can include:
- Sweating of palms or soles of feet
- Release of emotion
- Twitching or tingling of limbs
- Fatigue for up to 48 hours
- Flu-like symptoms
- More ease and frequency of bowel movements
- More energy
- Relief from pain
- Joints appear more supple
Reflexology itself does not heal, rather it stimulates the body to encourage self healing. To support your body through this process it is encouraged that you maintain your hydration, and recommended that you try to increase your water intake 24 hours before and after your treatment. You will be offered water upon completion of your treatment and it is advisable to rest after your session to receive the maximum benefit.
All of out treatments use a gentle to medium pressure as a standard practice. If this pressure is too firm for you, or you prefer a light touch treatment, please inform your reflexologist and we will be happy to accommodate you. However, we do not take requests for firmer treatments as we work at a pressure that is comfortable for our hands without causing injury.
We offer a mobile service within a 12 mile radius of the studio for clients who are unable to travel. This service is available subject to an appropriate working space being available in your home, for example your own recliner chair. An additional charge will be made for this service, please contact us for further details.
Payment
We accept payment in cash at your appointment, or in advance
by bank transfer. We do not currently accept card payments.
Missed appointments and late cancellations
Please note that if you wish to rearrange your treatment, 24
hours notice is required. Any cancellations made in less than 24 hours notice
will be subject to a £10 charge. Missed appointments will be subject to a 50%
charge. If a cancellation is made with less than one hours notice, a 50% charge
will be made as the room is heated and equipment is prepared prior to the
client’s arrival.
Late arrivals
Please arrive on time to your appointment. It is the responsibility
of the client to check the tide times and to ensure they allow time to find the
studio on the first appointment. If you are late to your appointment, length of
treatment will be reduced, as ample time is needed to clean and prepare the
room between clients. The full payment amount will be due for all late
appointments. Please let us know if you are running late.
Family
Clients are expected to attend their treatment alone. If you
feel like you need to be accompanied by a family member, please contact us to
discuss this further. Clients under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied
by a parent or guardian.
Illness
Please cancel your appointment if you are unwell.
Parking
There is no allocated parking for clients but our road is quiet
and there is always plenty of space to park. Please do not park your car
blocking our driveway or neighbours’ driveways.
Gift vouchers
If gift vouchers are not claimed within 12 months, and
treatment prices have increased, there will be an additional cost to make up
the price of the treatment.
Most of our treatments are carried out on a lafuma which has a weight limit of 140 kilos or 22 stone. If you do not fall below this limit, please advise us before booking your appointment so that we can discuss alternative options to ensure your comfort is paramount.
Some treatments such as the Reflexology and Energetic Balance Treatment will be carried out on an electric bed.
Please provide us will a full and accurate account of your medical history during your consultation process, and update your reflexologists on any changes to your health since your last appointment. It is important that we are fully aware of your health conditions in the case of an emergency, or we may have to adapt our treatment to meet your medical needs. Reflexology is safe to have with most medical conditions and can be a wonderful supportive therapy alongside traditional medicine. It is recommended that any client with a medical condition consult with their doctor on whether reflexology is suitable for them prior to booking an appointment.
Reflexology is NOT suitable for clients with:
- Acute undiagnosed pain
- Cellulitis - if severe
- Contagious/infectious/notifiable diseases
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Gangrene
- Haemorrhage
- Imminent medical tests or procedures
- Thrombosis
- Unstable heart conditions
It should also be noted that reflexology should not be done on a client with a very full or very empty stomach. Please eat a light meal prior to your appointment. Please inform your reflexology of any allergies, especially allergies found in products as we use a variety of products during our treatments.
Local contra-indications include:
- Athletes’ foot
- Bone fracture
- Skin abrasion
- Contusion
- Wart or verruca
- Muscle injury or pain
Treatments may still take place if local contra-actions are present, however treatment may be carried out in gloves, small plasters may be put on the feet to cover a wart or verruca, or some areas of the foot may be avoided entirely.
Clients with cancer
Reflexology is a safe and effective complementary medicine to have alongside most cancer treatments, though it is advised that clients speak to their consultant about whether reflexology is suitable for them prior to booking an appointment. Unfortunately, at Amara Holistic Therapy we are currently not trained in Reflexology for Cancer patients so we do not treat any clients undergoing cancer treatments, however there are plenty of therapists CPD trained in this area who are able to treat such clients.
Pregnant Clients
Reflexology is a safe and relaxing treatment for women to enjoy during pregnancy. Unfortunately, at Amara Holistic Therapy we are currently not trained in Reflexology for Pregnancy so we do not treat any pregnant clients, however there are plenty of therapists CPD trained in this area who are very skilled and knowledgeable.
Clients will not be treated if the therapist does not feel it is safe to do so. If you have any further questions please contact us and we will be happy to discuss this with you further.
It is uncommon for people to be ticklish during a reflexology treatment. Some feel anxious about their feet being seen or touched, please rest assured that the benefits of reflexology should outweigh any concerns that you may have.