My path to Reflexology has been indirect and varied, and I believe that so much of what I have done feeds into a more mature and holistic approach to my practise. The core of everything I have done comes back to one thing: how can I enable others to live life to their fullest?
My original degree was in Psychology followed later by a teaching diploma. Alongside teaching I further qualified as a Massage Therapist (School of Massage, Zimbabwe). This I practiced alongside my teaching until I emigrated from Zimbabwe, at the age of 30, to the UK.
Here in the UK, I went on to do a Level 3 in Counselling (VTCT) which, alongside my experience in both teaching and massage, has taught me so much about how to pull alongside, understand and work with people.
Over time I have begun more and more to recognise the role that stress plays in our modern lives, and how broadly that affects so many around us. As such I trained as a Reflexologist (Level 3 VTCT). I wanted to provide a service in which my client can relax and begin to let go of some of their stress – both physical and emotional. I have always known what back pain is, due to childhood disability (note: this does not interfere in any way with my ability to practise Reflexology), and it has enabled me to more fully identify with those seeking complimentary therapy for health reasons.
Reflexology is a way in which I can work with people, closely and in a meaningful way which allows them some relief. In many cases reflexology improves the symptoms of illnesses that the medical world can only meet on a chemical or a medical basis. Reflexology is complementary to and not a replacement for medical intervention: we aim to walk alongside our clients providing a way in which they can better handle and cope with the difficulties that life presents to them.
Since qualifying as a Reflexologist I have made further studies into Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) with Sally Kay. This form of reflexology works particularly well – in fact there have been spectacular results – with someone who develops lymphoedema as it literally works to remove unwanted lymph (liquid) from the area. This is particularly effective is in breast cancer where someone has also lost their lymph nodes.
I have studied further in Oncology Reflexology (VTCT) which has enabled me to further understand how cancer works in the body, and the gentle but generous flow technique that can be both soothing and most effective. Reflexology in this scenario works with the symptoms and side effects of cancer (and its treatment), and it is essential that it run alongside medical intervention.
I am also a volunteer at Macmillans where I provide Reflexology as a complimentary therapy. As such I attended a Cancer Awarenesscourse with Macmillans, and I hold an up to date CRB certificate.
In order to practise as a Reflexologist in the UK we need to be insured and be part of a broader body that regulates the practise. As such I belong to the Association of Reflexology (AoR).
I am looking to practise from rooms in Hursptierpoint, Brighton and Hove (once a week at this stage), and am setting up my own rooms just north of Brighton, just beneath the South Downs.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
“Reflexology is very effective for a wide range of ailments. It is a truly holistic akingon the body’s energy system. I had the pleasure of having a course of treatments from Carol. Carol is a wonderful practitioner and I would recommend her to anyone.”
“Carol is friendly, professional and fun. Her love for her work makes the whole experience so enjoyable”.
“Thank you for all you have done. I will definitely be in touch for treatment in the future.”
“I have felt good … Also a reduction in the tenderness in the armpit area I am sure. Amazing treatment, would definitely like to book in for another.”
This is the link to one of the rooms from which I offer Reflexology.
https://www.brightonandhovetherapyhub.co.uk/therapist/154/
