Regardless of your health condition(s) the Reflexologist focuses on the entire pattern of the foot, generally starting at the toes and working down, watching for sensitivities and tight or hard areas along the way. If you, the client, have a specific condition, the Reflexologist will keep this in mind and carefully feel and work the area corresponding to your condition. For example, if you are suffering from migraines, the migraine points on the toes will be assessed for congestion or tension and carefully and mindfully worked, while still working all other areas of the foot. According to Reflexology, this allows the nerve pathways and congestion to release, promoting the relaxation response of the entire body.

If the Reflexologist finds congestion or areas of pain during a treatment, specific pressure will be applied to work on the points to restore a "free flow" along the nerve pathways in the area of the body affected. To "release pain" is not the goal. The goal is to bring the whole body into balance so the pain can subside naturally. The Reflexologist stimulates the nervous system to do the work, it is not the therapist who "fixes" it.

During treatment an individual may experience various physical or emotional sensations, such as a general relaxation, a cooling and warming, a "lightness" or tingling in the body, a sense of becoming "energized", as well as a sense of "opening," or "energy moving" from where pressure is being applied to certain organs or areas of the body. The temperature changes and lightness commonly resolve quickly, while the affect on energy can last for days after treatment. Other short-lived reactions can include sweating hands or feet, a "chilling" sensation, a light-headedness, coughing, laughing, crying, thirst and having an overwhelming desire to sleep or sigh deeply. It should be remembered that some pain may be felt when the Practitioner assesses the body's balance by working the pattern of the foot, which can, although seldom, lead to muscle contractions causing some level of discomfort.

Generally, sessions last between 30-60 minutes. You can rest or talk during the session at your discretion. If you fall asleep during the session, you will still receive the benefits of the treatment. Feedback during the session is encouraged, and of course, you can request that a treatment be stopped at any time.

It is important to remember that Reflexologists do not diagnose, prescribe or 'heal" specific diseases, they help the client's body heal itself. The Reflexologist knows that the purpose of his/her work is to help realign the body, so it can effectively utilize its own energy and natural healing ability. As with any professional, you'll want to do your homework before choosing a Reflexologist. Your goal is to find a Practioner who is professionally trained, as opposed to someone who has just had a brief introduction (such as a weekend workshop) and think they have mastered the techniques of Reflexology. Be sure to ask about training and certification. Many practitioners are lay practitioners, perhaps trained at a massage school, without the in-depth training required for certification in Reflexology. You want an experienced Reflexologist, because it takes a lot of practice to build sensitivities in the fingers and to be able to munipulate the flow of the body's energy. Those who have been properly trained and know the art of touch will provide a lasting and beneficial treatment.

Choose a Reflexologist that holds a membership in a provincial and/or national Association. The Reflexology Association of Canada (RAC) and RAC-BC requires that all practicing Therapists are trained to specific standards and they conduct themselves professionally, adhering to a strict code of ethics and conduct. Only registered members of the Reflexology Association of Canada may use the "RCRT" (Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist) designation in their title, indicating they are a registered and certified practitioner that is commited to participating in regular post-graduate training and development programs and to uphold internationally accepted standards.

One other important subject to explore is your payment options prior to committing to treatment. Reflexology is typically fee-for-service. Group Health Insurance or extended benefits generally do not cover the services of a Reflexologist. Check with your employer or your insurance provider to confirm coverage.