Maternity Reflexology

Reflexology provides support to women through pre-conception, pregnancy and post-natal recovery by promoting relaxation and well-being.

Maternity Reflexology differs from regular Reflexology in the use of specialised techniques, adjusted to each stage of pregnancy. Learn more

Although precautions are taken in the first trimester of pregnancy, Maternity Reflexology is a suitable at all stages, from pre-conception to well after the baby's birth.

Pre-conceptual care

Since the potential father will also be playing a key role in the process, Reflexology is beneficial to both partners.

Reflexology and a healthy lifestyle, including nutrition and exercise, bring about optimum health, creating the ideal environment for conception and early foetal development. The recommendation is to begin preparing about four months before attempting conception. This gives the body a chance to clear of toxins and benefit from healthier living.

Many clients feel that Reflexology has helped them to feel more relaxed and positive about their quest to become parents.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy a woman's body experiences many hormonal, physical and emotional changes. It can be a great source of stress to the future mum adjusting to these changes as well as worry about what lies ahead.

Reflexology may be a great support at this time, relieving stress and tension bringing about deep relaxation and creates a sense of well being for the foetus. The mother feels supported mentally, physically and emotionally throughout her pregnancy.

New mothers increasingly report they believe that regular visits to a Maternity Reflexologist as well as a healthy lifestyle throughout pregnancy, helped them to have not only a good labour and birthing but a speedy recovery.

Preparation for Labour and Birth

We have found that regular Reflexology treatments during pregnancy may encourage delivery closer to term and result in a shorter labour, with less medical intervention and pain relief required. The restorative effects of Reflexology may be immensely valuable and helps to prime your body for birthing.

If the pregnancy goes beyond term, with the permission of the obstetric care-giver, there are techniques that can be used on the feet and hands to try and prime labour (some refer to it as natural induction). We also recommend, as well as show you, how to use well-established acupressure points for labour preparation and pain relief.

Post-Natal Recovery

Once baby has arrived there is a long period of adjustment for mum both physically and emotionally. Reflexology eases the body to its non-pregnant state restoring balance. It is wonderful at supporting and calming both mum and baby.

A session soon after the birth provides an opportunity to relate your experience and discuss your feelings, giving you time for yourself when elsewhere the focus is on the new baby.

Sessions also provide the opportunity to show you how to work the baby's feet to treat minor problems.

Maternity versus Regular Reflexology

The techniques used in Maternity Reflexology differ from regular Reflexology in the use of:

• specific relaxing techniques to calm mother and baby
• focused attention to the aches and pains associated with pregnancy
• balancing the endocrine system for mental and physical well-being
• gentle approach to all techniques, adjusted to each stage of pregnancy

"We treat the whole person,
not just the symptoms or condition"

Maternity Care - Professional Care for Mother and Baby

Having a baby is a joyful and exciting journey with many new and wonderful experiences. Once your baby has arrived, there is a long period of adjustment both physically and emotionally. It is important to rest and relax as much as possible to allow your body to recover and enjoy special moments with your baby.

Self Balance offers professional care and support to mothers with new babies and their families in their own home, for the first few days after the birth, or up to a maximum of six weeks, to:

• help you to care for your new baby; feeding, bathing, nappy changing
• provide practical advice, instruction and support
• care for you; ensure you rest, bring you drinks and meals
• undertake light household tasks, preparing meals, tidying up, shopping, laundry
• care for and amuse older siblings

If you are interested in this service, please call or email for further details.

"Baby Moon, a period of time that parents spend
bonding with their new-born baby"