The gentle therapy of reflexology encourages the body to heal itself in its own time, quite often making up for a lifetime of neglect. The use of varying degrees of pressure and stretching movements help to promote health. It is a natural, safe and extremely effective therapy which has been practised for thousands of years. The main effect of massage is to relax the body and balance the body systems. It can have an invigorating effect, can help drain away excess fluid and toxins from the muscle tissue and can ease painful muscles.
Tense muscles constrict the blood vessels and inhibit circulation.
Relaxing the muscles with massage takes pressure of the arteries and veins and allows the blood to flow more freely. The lymphatic, or immune system is also stimulated to work more efficiently in removing toxins from the tissues and fighting bacteria. Breathing and digestion can also improve. The sense of relaxation and well-being that results can help prevent disease by dispelling the stress hormones that weaken the immune system. It is therefore beneficial for conditions such as tension headaches, backaches, stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, constipation, high blood pressure and joint pain.