reflexology in martock, yeovil, ilminster, sherborne, Somerset, DORSET

The following definition is informed by the Clinical Association of Reflexologists.

Clinical Reflexologists are trained to work safely on people with medical problems without written or verbal permission from the doctor and can be insured to do this. They will always seek to work with, and refer back to, whenever required, the client's doctor and other healthcare providers and can be considered to be part of the client's healthcare team. They have undergone advanced training to support clients living with a range of medical conditions (noting the 5 main benefits of Reflexology). Clinical Reflexologists have diagnostic skills which are applied within a complementary framework. Whilst the training of a Clinical Reflexologist is extensive they do not diagnose within an allopathic (mainstream medicine) framework. Clinical Reflexology is complementary to, and not an alternative to medical advice.

The Association of Reflexologists (AoR) provides a register of qualified and fully insured Reflexologists. Look for the use of the initials MAR. Full membership of the AoR means that the Reflexologist can be included on the 'NHS Find a Reflexologist' listing. In addition, Reflexology is listed by the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) - this is the Independent UK regulator for complementary healthcare practitioners.

I have memberships and listings on all of the above (MAR, NHS find a reflexologist and CNHC). In addition, I retain Chartered membership of the British Psychological Society. I am also a Chartered Scientist and a Retired Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Ergonomics and Human Factors. I take professional competence seriously and all of these organisations require evidence of continuing professional development and adherence to a code of conduct and ethical practice.

The short answer is YES and I am pleased to see that an increasing number of major health insurers are recognising Reflexology. Please check the specific detail of your health insurance policy to determine whether, or not Reflexology is covered in full or in part. I can provide a receipt to support your health insurance claim, where applicable.

Duopody foot reflexology, where both feet (and the foot 'tops and soles') are treated at the same time can be performed with clients sitting upright, at various angles, or laying down on a massage bed. I also have a Reflexology chair (e.g. a Lafuma chair, or similar) where the client is able to be seated and tipped back into a comfortable position with legs raised. Other adaptations can be made, so long as I can comfortably gain access to your feet. For example the client may be laying in bed, or seated within their own chair with feet on a foot stool with a comfortable pillow or cushion underneath to support. We will take time to ensure that you are comfortable and that you have a positive Reflexology treatment experience.

This will be discussed as part of your first extended Reflexology session taking into consideration your key reasons for coming to see me, your medical history, health and wellness related goals and with full respect to your time and investment in Reflexology. In some cases short and frequent sessions even daily or twice a week might be appropriate, whilst in other cases weekly sessions for a period of time, extending to fortnightly and then monthly might be best. We will have an ongoing conversation on what works for you and this will form part of your Reflexology treatment plan.

Firstly, try not to 'rush' to or from your Reflexology appointment. Sometimes this is easier said than done! But taking time to relax before and definitely after your session is beneficial to getting the most from your treatment time and is supportive of the rebalancing effects of Reflexology. Secondly, think about what you would like to gain from your Reflexology session(s) - this might be 'simply' making time for you and your self-care, or finding ways through reflexology to support the quality and quantity of sleep, relaxation, release from tension, rebalancing of mood etc. I can help you to set 'intentions' or the focus for your particular session. And thirdly, I am a massive supporter of the benefits of building self-care habits that can be practised between reflexology sessions. I can work with you in identify relevant and practical lasting self-care habits for you to sample and build into your day-to-day routine over time!