‘Modern Facial Reflexology is a combination of methods historically used by Egyptian, Asian and other tribal cultures with concepts of neuroanatomy, which is the study of the structure and organisation of the nervous system.’
Catherine Clooney – FRCC
Reflexology on the Face – How does it work?
Similarly to Traditional Foot Reflexology, Facial Reflexology works on the same principle that the body’s central nervous system responds to any external stimulus via a reflex action. Thousands of nerve endings line our entire bodies that react continuously to sensation/touch, pain/pressure, heat/cold in an effort to protect us from harm, regulate our systems (warming up when we’re cold/cooling down when we’re too hot) and interpreting the world around us so we can adapt to it accordingly and maintain homeostasis (balance).
FACIAL REFLEXOLOGY utilises the body’s natural reflex actions and targets specific areas and points mapped out in zones on the face to promote healing, encourage blood flow to the skin, stimulate collagen production, and reduce stress and tension held within the facial muscles in addition to the rest of the body.
The Face: A Mirror of the Body
‘Are you ok? You’re very pale’…’You look really stressed’… ‘Are you sick? You don’t look well’…
We’ve all been asked these questions – even sometimes when we feel on top form! Our face and complexion can give away our state of physical and mental health without us even realising it. Often times our facial health is an honest and true reflection of dysfunctions that may be happening within our bodies, long before physical symptoms even appear.
Frowning, deep furrowed lines between the eyebrows, a clenched jaw and chronic teeth grinding is a sign of stress and tension and can suppress collagen production which leads to fine lines and premature skin wrinkling.
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In reflexology dark circles under the eyes is related to the kidneys, so an imbalance here can signify dehydration and also a build up of emotional fear held within the body. A person with this may find they commonly suffer from anxiety or even panic attacks.
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A pale or sallow complexion can be caused by poor circulation and low iron levels. Digestive function is greatly inhibited when the body is under stress therefore disrupting the body’s ability to absorb the nutrients from food, especially iron.
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Acne, and in particular cystic acne, is becoming increasingly more common in older females due to disrupted hormone productions. This extremely painful condition can have a devastating affect on the suffer’s emotional and psychological well-being, leading to reduced self-esteem and even social withdrawal.
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Tiredness, exhaustion and grief can be clearly reflected on a persons face, with a drawn expression and dull complexion. Chronic insomnia due to: hormonal imbalances, stress or over-thinking, family or financial pressures, or the loss of a loved one can greatly effect how we feel on an emotional, physical and even spiritual level. That feeling of just ‘giving up’ can leave a sufferer feeling ‘flat’, with no energy, vitality or ‘zest’ for life. Lack of, or disturbed, sleep can have a strong negative impact on immune system response, leaving the sufferer prone to common illnesses, colds, persistent coughs, recurrent infections and general malaise.
How Face Reflexology can help YOU
This gentle yet powerful treatment is immensely beneficial for:
- Stress/tension reduction which supports collagen production and leaves the skin feeling ‘bouncier’ and fuller
- Energy rejuvenation as energy & emotional blockages are released from the body
- Deeper and improved quality of sleep – essential for a strong immune system & tissue repair
- Hormone regulation which is vital for healthy skin, thyroid function, and emotional well-being
- Reducing headaches as it works to clear the sinuses, open up breathing pathways and lower tension in the neck
- Bruxism (teeth grinding) can happen anytime especially during the night as a result of stress. Stimulation of the masticatory muscles in the cheeks reduces jaw/teeth clenching
- Increased circulation to the skin which brings healthy, oxygen rich blood to the skins surface giving you that perky glow!
Reflexology Letterkenny 