Reflexology is an ancient holistic treatment that uses pressure on the feet, hands and ears to stimulate the body’s own healing functions. The most common form is foot reflexology, whereby each area of the body corresponds to an area on the foot. By applying gentle pressure to the correct area on the foot, a reflexologist will be able to improve the function of the corresponding organ in the body.
What is it supposed to do?
Reflexology is a relaxing process which helps reduce stress and tension, and relieves pain. It is especially beneficial to those suffering from arthritis, headaches and period pain. “Many years ago I went to a reflexology practitioner for my own arthritis,” says qualified reflexologist Maria Mattheou “and I felt so much better that I decided to train in the same discipline.”
What benefits does it claim?
Maria was very clear on the benefits of reflexology. In that it is a holistic treatment, it “re-sets” bodily functions and the organs of the body, so that everything works better. It produces deep relaxation, helps the blood to flow more freely and gets rid of toxins stored in the body. “Reflexologists do not prescribe or diagnose,” says Maria. “We treat the body as a whole, and look to alleviate pain from bodily processes that are not functioning as they should.”
Is there any science behind it?
Reflexology is considered an alternative therapy, falling into the holistic category. This means that the body is treated as a whole, that if something is wrong with one area, it will cause an imbalance in all areas of the body. It is not scientifically proven to work, but has been practised for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian scenes portray Pharaohs undergoing reflexology, and it was also used to a great extent in ancient China. It is still practised today by various peoples, including the Red Indians. It was revived as a treatment in the 19th century by Dr Fitzgerald, an American ear, nose and throat surgeon who realised that by placing pegs on the fingertips, he could anaesthetise different parts of the body. He used this theory to perform simple operations on patients without the need for anesthetic. “Reflexology may not be medically proven, but it’s logical nevertheless,” says Maria.
What is it like?
Maria’s studio is a welcoming haven of tranquilty. The burnt orange walls, warm lighting and calming atmosphere led me to suspect the influence of feng shui. But Maria refutes my suspicions. “I have a talented husband,” she laughed, “who was responsible for the decor.” I was offered a cup of tea, and guided to the inner sanctum, where Maria took details of my medical case history, explaining that all reflexologists must be very aware of any medication the client is taking, as it affects the body. I lay down on the bed and was wrapped in a warm blanket, right foot exposed. Maria began the treatment by gently massaging my foot. “Some clients like to chat, some fall straight asleep,” she said, “it’s mentally as well as physically therapeutic.” Unlike a visit to the doctor, Maria doesn’t remonstrate with her clients. It was only when I asked that she revealed what she could tell from my feet. “You smoke. Quite heavily,” she said, explaining that she could feel problems with my bronchial tube and kidneys. “You’re right handed, and very stressed – you have a lot of tension in your neck and shoulders.” Apparently the corresponding areas of my feet felt “sandy”, rather then relaxed. I was amazed by her knowledge, and at times was able to feel a relaxing sensation in the area of my body being targeted. The entire process took an hour – a whole deeply enjoyable, relaxing hour – at the end of which I curled up on the bed and fell asleep! I was woken with a cup of green tea, and walked on air for the next two days. Reflexology may not be medically proven, but in the next week, I found I was waking earlier, concentrating better and had lost the constant pain in my neck and shoulders.
Where and how much?
Maria’s refloxology studio is located in Nicosia at 39 Kennedy Avenue, flat 9. Tel: 22 319993. Each session lasts approximately an hour, and costs ?15.
