What is reflexology?

Many have false ideas about what reflexology actually is.  There is nothing magic or mystical about it.  Through extensive study, reflex points found in the feet have been mapped out and found to mirror the organs, glands, and bones of the body.  When calcium or uric acid builds up on the nerve endings found in the feet, it can congest nerve pathways, decrease the function of the corresponding organ, and lead to compromised health.  My job is to locate crystal build-up on various reflex points and break it down so it can be effectively flushed from the body.  Once the crystals are removed the body is better able to achieve homeostasis and heal itself. 


Think of it this way.  Have you ever used a shower head that was encrusted with calcium deposits?  How did the water flow?  Some holes probably shot water intermittently or in the wrong direction all together while others were probably blocked off completely, not allowing any water to pass through.  The shower head is unable to work to it's full potential until it is scrubbed clean.  And so it is with nerve endings and reflexology.  As I “scrub” your nerve endings clean, allowing proper function to be restored, your body is better able to reach its full potential in all body functions.  This shower analogy also demonstrates why reflexology is suggested for health maintenance as well as healing.  It is significantly easier to keep your shower head clean, so to speak, than to scrub off years of excessive build up!

Reflexology aids in stress relief, improves circulation, and improves overall nerve function.  Many have found great success in treating sinus congestion, multiple sclerosis, insomnia, PMS, migraines, sciatic pain, fibromyalgia and countless other conditions.   Come on in and try it out!  You just might discover a safe and affordable way to improve, as well as maintain, your health. 

To better understand the difference between Spa Reflexology and Clinical Reflexology, read my post HERE.

To read testimonials from my clients, click here.

What To Expect & How Often Should I Go In?

When you come in for your first session you will remain fully clothed and be asked to remove your shoes and socks only.  You will be provided with a wipe to clean off your own feet before your treatment. *Please cover any sores at home with band aids before you come in.*  You will sit in a reclining chair while I work on your feet.  Both feet will be touched as well as your legs up to your knees. You will be asked to give a brief health history so your session can be catered to your individual needs. The more you communicate with me before and during your session the more beneficial it will be for you.  Let me know if the pressure being applied to your feet is too light, too hard, or if you experience any discomfort or other sensations (tingling, warmth etc) during your session. These sensations may be experienced any place on the body during our session.  All of these sensations are normal, but communicating them allows me to know what areas require a little extra attention.  As stated in previous posts, reflexology clears away calcium deposits and uric and amino acids from your nerve endings, opening nerve pathways, improving circulation, and helping the body get to a point where it can better heal itself.  No oils or lotions will be applied to your feet during your session as this makes it more difficult to manipulate the build up on your nerve endings, however essential oils will be placed on the feet at the conclusion of your session to aid in the healing process.  (To read about the difference between reflexology and massage, read my post located HERE.)


Many ask how frequent sessions should be.  This is completely up to the individual, though keep in mind that the most significant results are generally seen after 3-5 sessions. If you are in good health you might want to come in for a regular "tune up" on an as needed basis to maintain health.  If you have a chronic condition (digestive issues, fibromyalgia, MS,  restless leg syndrome, PMS etc.) you might want to consider more frequent visits, as often as twice a week,  until you have achieved your desired level of health. The beauty of reflexology is maintenance can be performed by a loved one in the comfort of your own home to decrease the frequency, and subsequent cost, of a professional reflexology treatment.  If this is something that interests you, please let me know so I can keep you informed on upcoming workshops.  If requested, I can also mark problem areas on your foot with a pen so your loved one will know better what areas to work at home. Keep in mind that acute symptoms are resolved faster than chronic ones. (For a brief video on home maintenance, click HERE. )


While there are countless benefits from reflexology(read testimonial here), a few of my clients, maybe 5%, experience what is called a "healing crisis" as toxins are flushed from their system. I encourage all my clients to read my post on healing crisis' found Here.
 
I want you to get better.  I will not pressure you into coming in more often than your schedule or budget allows.  Come on in and we'll come up with a plan to suit your needs. 

Testimonials from my clients

 

"You've made such a difference in the way I feel." ~M, Leavenworth KS

 

"I went in for a foot massage, and it felt great while they were doing it, but I didn't find any relief afterward. When I leave our sessions I find relief."

 

"Thanks for the reflexology session this weekend. I had hoped for some relief from my neck pain (mission accomplished), but had the happy surprise of relief from sinus pressure and congestion, too! Thanks for everything!" ~A.H., Leavenworth KS

"You probably hear this all the time, but I feel so much better!  I can't pinpoint what the difference is exactly, I just feel better overall.  More balanced.  Especially emotionally."

"I slept through the night without any (sleeping) medication for the first time in I don't know how long! Thank you, MaryAnn!" ~Julie

"I have found significant relief for my restless leg syndrome."

"I started out as a skeptic, as I'm sure most people do. MaryAnn was so good at explaining reflexology in layman's terms and making sure I was comfortable. She is very good at reminding you to communicate your needs throughout the session. It would be easy for her to quietly complete a generic reflexology session, but she is always sure to address your personal needs, and concentrates on those areas that need extra attention. Her goal is to help you feel better! I walked in with back and neck pain, sinusitis and a mild case of carpal tunnel. A few hours after a session with MaryAnn I could already feel a difference. I had more energy, I wasn't as achy, and my hand didn't hurt at all! I will definitely be seeing MaryAnn again, and make reflexology a part of my wellness routine." ~Suzie, Leavenworth KS

"At first I was a little unsure about the practice of reflexology. I had never heard of it before but thought I would give it a try. After the first session, I started to notice my headaches lessen and my allergies lighten. After a few more sessions I noticed that I had more energy during the day and was able to focus better. MaryAnn is very gentle and patient. I will definitely come back again!"
 ~ Melanie. Leavenworth KS 

"MaryAnn did an amazing job!! She made me feel relaxed and hit some great spots. I went in with a headache and within minutes it was gone!  Usually my headaches last for HOURS! I can't wait to see her again." 
 ~Susi, Leavenworth KS

"After I felt different sensations in different areas, MaryAnn told me what body part it was targeting and it all made perfect sense based on whats been going on with me lately. Amazingly accurate! I definitely became a believer after my session. MaryAnn is also very easy to be around which is a huge plus when someone is touching you!" ~Faith, Leavenworth KS 

"MaryAnn is genuinely concerned and cares about her clients. She takes all of our frustrations and struggles into consideration while working on us. She knew I had a job where I had to run around on my feet all night so she concentrated on making my feet feel less strained; she worked out some of the other kinks in my other pressure points. She made sure that before I left I felt better and gave me specific instructions on how to help find relief in the future. I would recommend MaryAnn to everyone! " ~Brandi, Leavenworth KS

"I had been dealing with arthritis pain in my left middle finger for over a year and half.  The base of my finger was so swollen and painful, I couldn't wear my wedding ring (even though it was on the next finger over).  As a piano teacher, I had been avoiding the use of my middle finger to the extremes.  I stopped playing certain pieces of music and couldn't snap my fingers with my left hand.  I had been doing everything in my power to avoid taking prescription medications.  I didn't think reflexology was going to do the trick.  To be honest, I was skeptical that anything done to my feet would have an effect on my hands.  I was pleasantly surprised.  After my first reflexology session, I had a visible reduction in swelling and a the pain was manageable without medication.  After the second session, I could snap my fingers for the first time since showing symptoms.  Now, after 5 sessions, I can play pieces of music I haven't touched in ages.  I have truly seen better results than I had imagined!  I am able to manage my pain without the side effects of immuno-suppressants or pain pills.  Thanks MaryAnn! Reflexology is definitely going to be a regular part of my health management program." ~Amy, Leavenworth KS


"[My Husband] said that it's amazing what a difference he felt after his appointment with you and that his neck has not hurt since!! (You saved us a big hospital bill as he had an appointment to get occipital nerve blockage) that he is no longer getting, thanks to you!!! " ~Nery, Leavenworth KS

"This is the first time I haven't gone PAST my due date. I'm sure it's because of reflexology!  Thank you!" S.S. Leavenworth KS

***To leave your own testimonial for Serene Sole Reflexology, click here.

Healing Crisis

When build up on nerve endings is broken down through reflexology it shatters into the surrounding area where it is absorbed by the surrounding tissue and ultimately flushed out of the body.  As a result of this freeing of toxins, many clients of reflexology experience what is known as a "healing crisis." For many this means temporary cold or flu symptoms, lasting 1-3 days.  This is one of the ways your body relieves itself of toxins and as such, these symptoms should not be suppressed.

Other patients of reflexology may experience a temporary worsening of symptoms or temporary presence of old symptoms.  Neck pain from an accident years ago, for example.  All of these reactions are normal and should be short lived. Many people get discouraged when they experience a healing crisis, thinking they are worse off than before their session. Do not be discouraged if you have these symptoms.  It simply means it is working!  Your body is rebooting and getting back on track. It is remembering when and where the problem occurred while retracing and renewing nerve pathways.

The frequency & symptoms of a healing crisis should decrease as you continue your reflexology sessions.  If your symptoms feel severe you should talk to your Reflexologist about possibly having shorter but more frequent visits to lessen the effects.  Many have found the process of a healing crisis and it's symptoms can be sped up through a juice fast.  Please talk with your doctor before starting a juice fast or any other cleansing.  Drinking eight 8 ounce glasses of water a day can also be helpful in removing toxins.

Still others will experience an emotional, rather than a physical,  healing crisis.  This often results in a cathartic cry during a session.  Do not be embarrassed, but let your emotions run their course.  This emotional cleansing can be very therapeutic, especially to those who have experienced an emotional trauma.

A friend of mine shared her experience:

"Both of my kids have been struggling so badly with both parents remarrying and various issues this year and one session with her and my son was sobbing, but it was a good sob. He was working through everything and now he tells me, 'I was having a hard time being happy but since she rubbed my feet it's just easier to be happy now mom!' Love it."

After the toxins and emotional blockage have been flushed from the body your body is better able to achieve homeostasis and heal itself.  Physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Spa Reflexology vs Clinical Reflexology

As discussed earlier, there is a lot of confusion as to what reflexology is.  I have worked on several clients who claim to have experienced reflexology before.  Most of them, within the first minute of our session, say, "I don't know what I had done before, but it sure wasn't this!"

There are two types of reflexology.  The first is the type generally given in spas. The second is Clinical, or Medical, Reflexology.

Spa type Reflexology is like an improved foot massage.  It generally uses oils and creams with some pressure applied here and there.  Its main purpose is to awaken the pleasure sensors in the skin.  Though very relaxing, this type of  Reflexology has little in common with Medical Reflexology.

Medical or Clinical Reflexology uses specific hand and finger techniques with deep pressure to stimulate all nerve endings contained in the foot. This type of Reflexology awakens pressure sensors in the feet and can cause some discomfort on congested nerve endings. Discomfort on specific reflex areas will only last as long as pressure is applied. As the condition improves, so will the discomfort on the nerve ending. A skilled Reflexologist will adjust pressure to the tolerance level of the patient and coach them on breathing techniques that can increase endorphins to help relieve pain. 

How can you know you are getting the real deal? Ask for credentials.  Many states do not require certification for Reflexologists, so basically someone could start charging for services after glancing at a foot chart.  (To see the requirements for your state click Here) Ask to see certification.  Look for the letters  "C.R." (Certified Reflexologist) following their name. This certification is a very good indicator as to the extent of their knowledge on the subject as well as experience in the field.  Ask questions before and during your session.  If your "Reflexologist" stumbles on answers, cannot tell you what reflex point they are currently working, or if they attempt to diagnose you with a condition, you will want to look elsewhere. **Diagnosing done by anyone but your health care provider is considered practicing medicine without a license. Reflexologists are certified only to state the condition of your reflex points. If you are concerned you may have a problem with your corresponding organ, please see your health care provider.**

Call ahead to ask if reflexology is painful or not.  If the reply is "Not at all!  It's very relaxing!" then you can plan to get a fabulous foot massage rather than a Clinical Reflexology treatment. A foot rub is relaxing, but reflexology does so much more.  The answer you are looking for is something similar to "While most of the session will be comfortable, there may be brief moments of discomfort.  I will communicate with you to make sure the discomfort stays at a tolerable level and all discomfort should disappear as soon as I remove my hands." This answer indicates you have found a knowledgeable and well trained Reflexologist.

One other "red flag" when it comes to reflexology is the use of oils or lotions. Lubrication on the skin makes it very difficult to effectively manipulate nerve endings and break up congestion.  Use of oils and lotions is NOT within the scope of reflexology and is better associated with a massage.  Though some reflexologists may chose to end a session with therapeutic massage oils,  oil should not be used during the actual reflexology session. 

Do your homework.  Especially when it comes to your health. Your body will thank you.

For more on what Reflexology is and how it works, CLICK HERE.

Carpal Tunnel?

Today I worked on a friend who is in the beginning stages of carpal tunnel and is a new nursing mother.  Any idea what areas were most tender on her?  You guessed it! Her wrist, breast, and back reflexes! (All you nursing mothers out there will understand that!)  She loves to crochet and makes such amazing and detailed creations. During our session her biggest concern was her wrist. We worked her whole foot focusing on her neck, shoulder, arm, and wrist reflexes as well as her adrenal gland to decrease swelling, her solar plexus reflex to relax, and all spinal reflexes.  Shortly after our session she sent me a quick facebook message:

"My wrist feels SO much better! Amazing! Thank you, MaryAnn!!"

Glad you are feeling better.  Hopefully you'll be crocheting your amazing creations again soon! :)

***Please note that acute symptoms are quicker to treat than chronic ones. Individual results may vary.***

For those of you at home suffering from carpal tunnel, you may find relief doing hand reflexology on yourself. 

Because carpal tunnel is caused by having your hands constantly curved forward, you my find relief by doing the following exercise with a rubber band to strengthen the muscles on the back of the hand. Many have claimed to be cured of their carpal tunnel by simply balancing the strength on both the palmar and dorsal aspect of the hand.  Just a few minutes each hour (or as needed) can get you back on the road to recovery.

Article from the Dr. Oz website on Reflexology

Here is a fantastic article on how reflexology works as well as helpful tips to help you work on yourself at home in between professional sessions.  Reflexology 101 Article  HERE.

And for those of you too lazy to read the article, here's the highlights:

*" Is there any evidence, or scientific studies that support the effectiveness of reflexology?
In 1991, the first U.S. reflexology study published in a scientific peer reviewed medical journal, Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, studied the effects of reflexology on PMS. The double blind study showed a 47% reduction in symptoms, not including placebo effect."(reflexology compared to a general foot rub- it pays to go to a trained professional!)

*"I recommend trying more than one session, because reflexology has cumulative benefits. It’s important the client assesses if this is working for them or not. Depending on the issue or health challenge, I often suggest at least three sessions close together (every week or two weeks) and then we evaluate initial results. Remember, acute conditions tend to balance faster than chronic ones. In other words, the longer you’ve had the issue, the longer it takes to get rid of it."

The author also shared tips for working on your own hand reflexes in between sessions to help with:
Insomnia
Digestion
Cold & Flu
Back Pain
Low Libido

"I often tell my clients that they can do all of these techniques as a general tune-up between sessions as a way to prolong the effects of their session or to see faster results. Many clients report feeling energized and relaxed with all of these techniques. It’s a quick and easy way to interrupt stress."