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What Is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a gentle, therapeutic treatment for the feet, hands, or ears. Unlike massage, which works on the muscles, reflexology applies pressure to specific points that are thought to correspond with organs, glands, and body systems.
By stimulating these points, reflexology aims to encourage relaxation, support circulation, and promote balance and wellbeing. Many people describe feeling calmer, lighter, or more energised after a session.
A Therapy with Ancient Roots
Reflexology has been practised for thousands of years. Evidence of it can be traced back to ancient Egypt, India, and China. One of the earliest known records is a pictograph found in the tomb of an Egyptian physician at Saqqara, near Cairo, which shows treatments being carried out on hands and feet.
In ancient Greece, Delphi was known as a health spa up until AD 200, where therapies such as reflexology were used to promote relaxation and wellbeing.
What to Expect in a Session
At the Beatson Wellbeing Centre, a reflexology session begins with a consultation, where we discuss your health, stress levels, and any areas of discomfort.
You’ll then lie back on a comfortable treatment bed with a blanket to keep you warm, while gentle music plays in the background. Warm cloths are placed on your feet before oil or cream is applied. Using gentle thumb and finger pressure, I work on reflex points across the feet.
The experience is usually very calming, some people even drift off to sleep. Sessions finish with light, soothing strokes that leave you feeling relaxed and balanced. Afterward, we recommend you rest and drink water.
The Benefits of Reflexology
People come to reflexology for many reasons, and some of the benefits often reported include:
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Reduced feelings of stress or anxiety
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Improved circulation
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Relief from tension or discomfort
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Better sleep
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Increased energy
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Support for digestion
When used regularly, reflexology can be a helpful part of maintaining balance and self-care.
Supporting People Living with Cancer
At the Beatson Wellbeing Centre, reflexology is often offered alongside medical care as a supportive therapy. While it does not treat cancer itself, it can provide comfort, relaxation, and help ease some of the side effects of treatment.
Patients have reported benefits such as:
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Reduced discomfort
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Relief from symptoms like nausea, constipation, or tingling in the hands and feet (neuropathy)
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Feeling less fatigued or overwhelmed
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Improved rest and sleep
Above all, reflexology offers time and space to relax in a safe and supportive environment.
Clearing Up Misconceptions
There are a few common misunderstandings about reflexology:
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“It’s just a foot massage” – Reflexology works on specific points linked to body systems. The aim is relaxation and balance, not just easing muscles.
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“Reflexologists can diagnose illness” – Reflexology is never used for diagnosis. Only healthcare professionals can provide medical assessments.
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“Everyone has the same treatment” – Sessions are always adapted to individual needs, especially for those undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy.
A Patient Experience
One experience that stands out to me took place at the Vale of Leven day unit, where I offered therapies to patients receiving chemotherapy. A young woman beginning her first treatment told me she hadn’t slept in days due to anxiety.
We started a reflexology session, and within ten minutes she was asleep for two hours. When she woke, she was emotional but relieved, saying it was the best rest she’d had in weeks. She continued with reflexology throughout her treatment, and told me it had helped her cope with the side effects and improved her sleep.
Preparing for Your First Session
There’s no special preparation needed for reflexology. Simply wear something comfortable and come ready to relax.
