Combining Aromatherapy With Reflexology

Aromatherapy is a powerful therapy; used on its own, its capable of helping many different health problems.  Aromatherapy is also used, by many, as a form of relaxation.  However, aromatherapy can also be combined with other complementary therapies such as reflexology.

I initially trained in reflexology and became a qualified reflexology practitioner before studing for my aromatherapy diploma.  I chose to study aromatherapy for a number of reasons - one of which was the versatility of being able to combine aromatherapy with a number of other complimentary therapies.

Using aromatherapy can enhance a reflexology treatment; when I had my aromatherapy studio, I offered reflexology with aromatherapy by first cleansing a client's feet in a warm bowl of rose petals, which was then followed by a reflexology treatment of a personal blend of essential oils, chosen specifically for the client's problems.

Reflexology is all about working on the reflex points and bringing the body 'back into balance'; by adding the use of essential oils, not only is the client more relaxed but the essential oils have chance to work their magic too!  However, it is essential to know both about reflexology points and essential oils before attempting to do this.

Esssential oils can be combined in an aromatherapy blend of oil or lotion.  Some reflexologists may not agree with this (I know some reflexologists prefer to work exclusively with talc) but, speaking from personal experience, I found this to be a popular choice amongst clients.

Refelxology points are also located on the hands, so if people have a preference not to have their feet touched, its still possible to use an aromatherapy treatment on the reflex points on the hands.

I have noticed that some aromatherapy schools are now offering courses to combine reflexology with aromatherapy, so I can only assume that the demand for combined aromatherapy and reflexology treatments is on the increase!

If you have any thoughts on combining aromatherapy with reflexology please leave me a comment below!

Aromatherapy Foot Blends

World reflexology week is coming up - this year its September 20 - 26th. Basically, world reflexology week is an opportunity to promote reflexology to the world. As an aromatherapist, I have found that combining aromatherapy blends specifically for the feet can help relax and heal one of the most overworked, but often neglected, parts of our bodies.

It is estimated that your feet will carry you approximately four times round the circumference of the earth in your lifetime. Women are said to have more health problems with their feet than men, possibly due to women's shoe fashion and style; certain health conditions, such as diabetes, nerve conditions and circulatory disorders are often identified on your feet before any other part of your body.

Essential oils which are suitable for aromatherapy foot blends include:

• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)


• Peppermint (Mentha piperita)


• Geranium ((Pelargonium graveolens)


• Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)


• Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)


• Lemon (Citrus limon)


• Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).

Essential oils can be blended in carrier oils and creams. Aromatherapy foot blends can be used daily after bathing and showering to relieve tired and sore feet. Its also possible to make uplifting sprays to revive tired feet and treat feet with an aromatherapy foot scrub to get rid of dead skin cells.

When using any essential oil, don't forget to pay attention to any cautions or contra-indicators for your personal condition.

In celebration of world reflexology week, I've just launched an Aromatherapy for Feet Section in the Sedona Aromatherapie web store!

To learn more about reflexology read The Egyptian Influence on Reflexology.

Read World Reflexology Week for more information on world reflexology week.

If you have any questions or comments about reflexology and using aromatherapy please leave me a comment or contact me!