Bayside Reflexology

General information

Reflexology, Facial Reflexology and Functional Reflex Therapy can all help us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level, encouraging us to heal and maintain health in all areas of our lives. It can easily fit into a busy lifestyle and can be part of an individual's coping strategy, resulting in multi-system relaxation and increased well-being. Stress is also thought to be responsible for many illnesses and problems, therefore relieving stress may prevent problems in the future.

Some of the many benefits from Reflexology:
Well-being, Stress relief, Release of tension, Mood Improvement, Perception of health, Sleep and relaxation.

What is reflexology?
The art of reflexology is an ancient therapy that has been practiced for over 500 years and was introduced to the western world over 100 years ago. Reflexology is a non-intrusive complementary therapy which is based on the theory that different points on the feet, face, lower leg and hands correspond with different areas of the body. Reflexologists believe that working these points aids relaxation and helps improve well-being. Reflexologists work holistically with their clients and aim to work alongside medical healthcare to promote better health for their clients.

Facial Reflexology - The Bergman Zone Method.
Facial Reflexology has all the benefits of foot and hand reflexology. By focusing on pressure points on the face it is a great way to relieve the effects of stress on the body. Improving circulation to the face and head, it also helps improve Lymphatic drainage aiding the removal of toxins. It can help relieve muscle tension, mental strain, sinusitis, congestion and can improve concentration. Facial Reflexology has a wonderful rejuvenating effect on the skin and leaves the face glowing and radiant, leaving you with a feeling of calmness and deep relaxation.

Reflexology using the Functional Reflex Therapy Approach.
Functional Reflex Therapy is a combination of relaxation techniques drawn from reflexology. A structured therapy session with a specific aim and purpose it is delivered as a timetabled therapy in mainstream and special needs schools, or privately with a FRT therapist. It is used as a relaxation therapy by qualified Reflexologists who bring their own experience and specialism to the therapy time and may address issues that have been highlighted by parents and school. Supported with the use of the FRT tool kit to help with communication, preparation and responsibility, it also adds a little fun and most importantly meets the child's individual needs. Functional Reflex Therapy is suitable for all children, not only those with special needs, such as Autism or ADHD, it supports all children who would benefit from regular relaxation.
Some of its many benefits:
Induced relaxation, Help improving mood, Reduces anxiety, Relieves tension, Helps with sleep disorders, Supports well-being, Helps concentration and focus, Encourages the receiver to be more receptive, Encourages social interaction and a better state of mind for learning, Supports mental health issues such as stress and anxiety, exam pressures or general worries. It has a positive effect on the issues that affect individuals and the people around them in many areas of their everyday lives.

Sarah Bird, Bayside Reflexology -
Functional Reflex Therapist.
I trained in Functional Reflex Therapy as I wanted to find a way to support my son who is on the autistic spectrum. FRT is a great communication tool that can help not only the child, but the parents too. I am passionate about offering FRT in mainstream and special needs schools for children, but also offer FRT workshops for parents, so they too can learn and use the techniques on their own children. Not only is this great for the child, FRT workshops are a fantastic way of being able to reduce parents anxiety and stress levels too, (as a parent myself I understand how stressful it can be when you can't find a way to help your child) FRT thereby helps the whole family.

Choosing a reflexologist?
Anyone can claim to have trained in Reflexology and there are many short courses, where you can 'learn' to be a Reflexologist in just a few weeks. Unfortunately, Reflexology is currently unregulated by the government, so when looking for a reflexologist it is important that the therapist has completed a high level of training and has a detailed knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology in order to understand the systems of the body and how the treatment may impact health conditions. Therefore membership with the Association of Reflexologists requires a high level of training, I am a full member of the Association of Reflexologists. By choosing a Reflexologist with the letters MAR, FMAR or HMAR after their name, you are choosing a therapist with Full Membership status of the Association of Reflexologists. This means that they continually demonstrate that they have met the strictest standards for professional excellence in reflexology practice, as well as being committed to continually developing their skills and knowledge. All members of the Association agree to abide by the Associations code of practice and have confirmed that they are insured to practice.