Top Questions

Reflexology/Facial Specific Treatments

What is a Clinical Reflexologist - aren't all Reflexologists the same?

A Clinical Reflexologist is someone who has been trained to the highest standards and can create a treatment protocol for many different conditions. Unfortunately, there are too many people who have taken a short course (sometimes as short as just 2 days) or un-accredited and then call themselves Reflexologists. As these courses are so short, they cannot possibly equip a therapist to competently treat conditions.

What actually happens in a Reflexology or facial treatment?

I will ask you to make yourself comfortable on the therapy couch (removing only your footwear if it is foot reflexology being performed or jewellery for hands or facial treatments). Once you are warm and comfortable, some relaxing music can be playing in the background. The treatment will then begin by refreshing your feet/hands/face and taking a foot/hands/face assessment. This is simply just to look at the colour, temperature, tone, and flexibility of your feet/hands/face. I will then cleanse and moisturise both feet/hands or the face using an organic, vegan-friendly cream and perform a short relaxation sequence on each foot/hand/face to warm and loosen the tension in your feet and ankles/ hands/wrists or face to encourage relaxation. I will then begin the reflexology treatment where firm but gentle pressure will be applied to the feet or hands whereas more gentle pressure is applied to the face ensuring the pressure applied is comfortable as some reflex points might be tender or painful when stimulated which could indicate an imbalance or issue in the body. After the treatments clients report feeling a deep state of relaxation and overall sense of wellbeing.

What should I expect from my first session?

An initial session can take up to 2 hours (dependent on treatment booked) as it includes a comprehensive medical & lifestyle consultation. The Client's health and wellbeing goals will be identified before a full investigatory holistic therapy treatment is then given. From this, a bespoke treatment plan will be created for the following session to target concerns. Follow up appointments last 60 minutes for Reflexology, 45 minutes for Indian Head Massage and 90 minutes for Zone Face Lift, Facial Cupping and Holistic Facials.

Is Reflexology a magic cure?

“Well trained reflexologists do not claim to cure or diagnose. Reflexology is a very individual treatment which is tailored to you as a whole person, taking into account both physical and non-physical factors that might be affecting your wellbeing. The best way to find out if it helps you is to try it!” –Association of Reflexologists

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

If you are having a reflexology treatment this can be delivered to you as you relax in a semi reclined position with your legs outstretched on the cosy Treatment Bed or Chair with support pillows, You will only need to remove shoes and socks to receive foot reflexology. For facial treatments, even if you wear a full face of makeup, you will receive a full cleanse although be prepared to remove jewellery. For Zone Face Lift and Facial Cupping treatments, I will extend your facial down your neck to your décolletage so you’ll be given privacy to remove your top before you get cosy under the blankets of the Treatment Bed, if you prefer. For Indian Head Massage treatments, full clothing is expected or a thin strapped vest top for those who wish to have oil applied.

What should I expect from my first session?

There are specific conditions that are not suitable for reflexology. These include infectious diseases, an unstable heart condition (unless working as part of a cardiac team) & active thrombosis/DVT. Reflexology improves circulation and can potentially shift the blood clot. Reflexology may also alter the outcome of hormone related medical tests. Therefore please discuss any imminent tests with me prior to your appointment.

As part of my Level 5 qualification, I am trained to treat clients during all pregnancy trimesters..

Is there any side effects after the treatment?

After the treatment, it is helpful to allow time for a drink of water and give yourself a few moments before leaving to continue with your day.

Possible Healing Reactions

Reflexology stimulates the body’s own healing response, there are sometimes healing reactions to reflexology that can occur during or after the treatment this is because toxins accumulate in the tissue throughout the body and by stimulating the reflex points it can dislodge from the tissue and be released into the bloodstream to be eliminated by the body.

Healing reactions could include the following:

Changes in your energy levels, resulting in either increase in tiredness/or feeling more energised
Feeling light-headed/headache
Heightened emotional reaction
Light nausea
Runny nose/sneezing
More frequent urination (urine may be darker and stronger smelling)
Increase/change in bowel habits
Breakout of skin blemishes

While not common, they are all normal healing reactions and usually pass 48-hours after treatment. They can usually be minimised by increasing your fluid intake and allowing yourself more rest.

Massage Treatments

What should I expect from my first session?

Before Your Massage Appointment
When booking your first massage, it’s important to decide on the type of massage you want. Different types of massage have different benefits, such as deep tissue massage which is a therapeutic technique that works the deeper layers of muscles and fascia uses slow and firm strokes to release tension and alleviate chronic pain or recovery from injury or a Sports massage which is a targeted therapy designed to enhance athlelic performance and aid in recovery focused on specific muscles groups and will includes stretching and joint mobilisation or Swedish Massage which is known for its gentle and relaxing techniques, using long, gliding strokes to promote overall relaxation and stress relief. It is perfect for those seeking a soothing experience, improving circulation, and relieving muscle tension.

If you are not sure which type of massage is right for you, Fiona can help you decide.

You should also let us know if you have any injuries, medical conditions, or allergies that could affect the massage. This will help them tailor the massage to your needs and ensure that it is safe for you.

During the Massage Therapy Appointment

When you arrive for your first appointment, you will be asked to fill out a consultation form which includes a detailed medical history. This is to help us understand any health conditions or concerns you may have.

After filling out the form, your massage therapist will ask you about your health history/ injury/ areas of concern based on the form you just filled out. Your therapist may perform special tests/ range of motion tests in order to understand your areas of discomfort or medical condition and create the best massage treatment plan for you. Once you are ready for your treatment, you will be asked to disrobe/ undress alone to your comfort level and lie down on the massage table under a sheet/towel/blanket (Please note that Indian Head Massage is a clothed massage treatment unless specifically requested). Your massage therapist will be outside the massage room as you disrobe and will knock to ask if you are ready and under the sheet/towel/blanket.

During the massage, your therapist will use various techniques, such as kneading, gliding, and tapping, to manipulate the muscles and soft tissue of your body. It’s important to let your massage therapist know if the pressure is too light or too deep at any time, or if there are any areas of your body that should be avoided, or if anything is making you uncomfortable. They will be happy to adjust the massage to suit your needs.

After the Massage Treatment

After the massage, the massage therapist will leave the massage room, and you will be given some time to rest and get dressed. Your massage therapist may give you some after-care instructions, such as drinking water, avoiding certain activities, stretching or strengthening techniques.

It is normal to feel a little sore after your first massage, but this will usually disappear within a day or two. If you have any concerns, be sure to let your massage therapist know.

What are the stones in a hot stone sports massage?

The stones in our hot stones sports massage are basalt stones. Basalt magma sleeps dormant deep within the earth for a thousand years or more before rising as a volcanic eruption. The lava that flows hardens into a fine matrix of crystal and thick, dark, dense black stone. This stone is able to retain even heat for a long period of time which makes it an ideal choice to use in therapy. Basalt stones are highly polished to become nice and smooth in order to glide over the body with ease.

We use a variety of different size and shaped stones ranging from the familiar large oval stones you see used for back massages to medium flat stones for arms and legs, down to stones the size of a two pence piece which can be placed between the toes during a lower leg, ankle and foot treatment.

Cold Stone Therapy

We also use cold stones! Cold stones placed on the skin triggers vasoconstriction which is the narrowing of blood vessels. When the cold stones are removed the blood vessels dilate again, supplying the affected areas with fresh blood and oxygen. There are many other benefits of cold stones including a decrease in muscle spasm, excellent pain relief, stimulation of the autonomic nervous system and mind stimulation. The cold stones we use are marble. They are naturally cool and are ideal for cooling treatments because they do not retain heat from the body.

Hot and cold can be used simultaneously to aid swelling and inflammation. Hot and cold stones used together can be very relaxing.

Can I receive a sports massage even if I'm not an athlete?

Absolutely, sports massages are not exclusively for athletes. They can benefit anyone with muscle tension or stress.

Is deep tissue massage painful?

It can be slightly uncomfortable due to the firm pressure, but it should never be excessively painful. Always communicate your comfort level with the therapist.

How often should I get these massages?

For sports massage, it can vary depending on your activity level, but deep tissue massages are typically recommended every 1-2 weeks for chronic issues.

Which massage is more relaxing?

Deep tissue massage is more effective for relaxation due to its focus on relieving tension in deeper muscle layers.

Can massages help with injury recovery?

Yes, both sports and deep tissue massages can aid in injury recovery, but sports massage is better for injury prevention.

Are there any contraindications for massages?

If you have certain medical conditions, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before getting either type of massage or contact Vous for advice if you are looking to book a treatment and have concerns.

General Questions

Is there parking available?

VOUS is in my peaceful Home Based Treatment Room, located on a very quiet cul de sac with no through traffic and plenty of parking. You are welcome to park on my driveway or in front of the house.

What facilities is there?

The treatment room is situated on the ground floor, making it easily accessible to all. There is just one step at the entrance way. The toilet is located right next door to the entrance way. Hot drinks such as Tea, Herbal Tea & Coffee are always offered to you. If you would like one to take away to keep you cosy on your journey home, just bring along your travel mug and I’ll fill it up at the end of your appointment. I also always have fresh water available in the treatment room. There is also a phone charger should your battery be low, but I do recommend that it is turned to silent so that you are able to fully relax during your treatment without distractions.