Roberta Mannucci
Reflexologist Therapist
As a licensed ITEC reflexologist, I’m originally from Italy and I have spent the last 7 years in Malta. The interest in reflexology therapy began when I experienced the positive effect of the treatments first hand. I found that my own health improved, both physically and emotionally. I believe that we have lost the ability to stop and reconnect with ourselves due to today’s busy lifestyles. We have forgotten how our bodies have a remarkable ability to regenerate and renew. Reflexology is a wonderful tool to do just that!
I have got my first reflexology in Malta licensed with ITEC
During my initial approach with reflexology I have been very lucky because I met my mentor who has introduced me to ART reflexology techniques which form a comprehensive and highly therapeutically clinical method of treatment. I have been in London and I attended a seminar with Hagar Basis, a real expert and well know reflexologist in London and Europe.
I have also approached other methods and kept studying and focusing on this amazing world.
My way of working is a mix of different studies as per below, but I'm trying to improve myself and my knowledge everyday. We never stop learning especially from our fantastic body. Our body is the mirror of our soul.
Level 3 ITEC Diploma in Reflexology
1st Level in Art reflexology Techniques at Reflexology Academy London
Lymphatic reflexology training Obus school at Biocare Malta
Reflexology for women’s health at Reflexology Academy London
Back and Beyond seminar by Tony Porter
Foot reading by Mauricio Moshe kruchik
Treatment of pain by Mauricio Moshe kruchik
What is Reflexology ?
Reflexology is a therapy that treats the feet in order to balance the whole body. its main principle is that by massaging and applying pressure to parts of the feet knows are reflex area other corresponding and connected areas of the body will feet the benefit . In reflexology the feet and the hand are like mini maps of the body’s anatomy so any body system can be accessed and stimulated by massaging the corresponding area of the foot or hand . The aim is to stimulate the body own healing process in order to keep the body in homeostasis
What is not …
It is not a foot massage but it uses the massage techniques and works with the feet as anatomical maps of the body.
Is not a medical treatment but It helps to maintain and restore health, can detect imbalances in the body by working on the feet and then works on problem area accordingly to help correct and healing them .
Benefits
1. Helps Control Blood Pressure
While we may not make wild claims that reflexology will permanently cure high blood pressure, there is evidence to indicate that when performed regularly, it can help to lower your systolic blood pressure. It most likely does this thanks to its ability to reduce stress and to help you relax. Cortisol is a known contributor to high blood pressure, so anything you could do to help keep it under wraps would benefit your blood vessel health.
2. Improves Nerve Sensitivity
Reflexology and foot massages seem to be of particular benefit in persons who may have experienced diminished nerve function secondary to another condition. For example, people diagnosed with hypertension or diabetes may experience complications due to neuropathy, which results in loss of sensation in areas of the body, especially the legs and arms. This is more frequent in the legs, and can be improved with massage and by directly stimulating the reflex points at the bottom of your feet. Reflexology may also help to improve blood flow to these areas, which would explain the return to function of some of these nerves.
3. Improves Energy Levels
As reflexology is believed to help enhance the function of several other organs, many people report improvements to their energy levels and metabolism to a lesser extent. By improving the function of many accessory organs, the processing of food is likely to become more efficient and you experience a nice boost in energy as a result.
4. Improves Blood Circulation
It seems that one of the most well-known benefits of foot reflexology is its ability to improve blood flow throughout the whole body. Improved circulation translates to more efficient oxygenation of cells, and more rapid recovery following a workout or an injury.
5. Helps Promote Sleep
Thanks to its ability to improve the functioning of the nervous system, it also appears that neurotransmitters are better able to promote sleep and relaxation as nighttime approaches. Reflexology has also often been sought out to help manage insomnia, helping to restore your normal circadian rhythm.
6. Improves Liver Function
Virtually anything that you put in your mouth needs to pass through the liver for processing prior to entering systematic blood circulation. For this reason, the liver endures quite the beating, and needs supports to function optimally at all times. Any decrease in function of the liver could lead to dangerous accumulation of waste matter which would’ve otherwise been removed by the organ. Reflexology can help to reset elevated liver enzymes values, and ensure that substances are metabolized in an efficient manner, keeping your body safe.
7. Treatment For Migraines And Headaches
Millions of people all over the world suffer from headaches and intractable migraines, needing to resort to medication frequently. However, this is not ideal as these medications could carry significant risk of side effects. Foot reflexology can help to reduce the pain associated with migraines, by decreasing the impact of the hormone cortisol on our blood vessels, reducing muscular tension and helping to calm us. Often times headaches and migraines occur due to high stress burdens or lack of sleep, both of which reflexology sessions can help you with.
8. Boost the immune system
The immune system is made up of a network of cells, tissues and organs - the thymus, spleen, bone marrow and lymphatic system - that work together to protect the body. During a Reflexology treatment all these organs and systems are stimulated to help boost circulation and help them work optimally, thereby increasing their ability to protect the body better. Another important factor to consider when talking about the immune system is stress as it plays a part in our immune functions. Stress is related to each and every aspect of our modern day lifestyle.
9. Treatment Of Arthritis
While many people advise against massaging arthritic joints, reflexology works by virtue of reducing the need for pain mediators and the subsequently inflammatory processes. Thus, even if arthritis affects your wrist, foot reflexology will still help to reduce the pain you experience. People that routinely use reflexology report up to 40% decrease in painful symptoms, and less need for medication.
10. Useful For Depression
While depression is frequently caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitter levels, lack of sleep or high anxiety and stress levels can induce a state similar to depression. A foot massage and reflexology performed twice-weekly can help to minimize these symptoms, especially when under high stress. Reflexology is even preferred over medication when treating postmenopausal women who may not necessarily need potent drugs, but just a natural way to optimize hormonal and brain chemistry.
11. Chronic Sinusitis
While migraines are attributed to dilated blood vessels under the surface of the scalp, sinus congestion is also caused by a similar mechanism. This is more likely if you suffer from seasonal allergies or asthma. Breathing becomes harder, and you find yourself unable to partake in physical activity. Foot reflexology can help to relieve symptoms of sinusitis, allowing you to breathe easier and not have to rely on medication all the time.
12. Helps Reduce Swollen Feet
Feet can become swollen for a number of reasons including high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease or even pregnancy. Regardless of the cause, you need to find a way to remove excess fluid that is pooling in your feet and ease the discomfort.
Foot massages are advised during pregnancy for this exact reason, as anything that promotes circulation will generally help to reduce swelling of the feet. Reflexology, in addition to improving the circulation will also stimulate diuresis and enhance kidney function, so that the salt balance of the body remains optimal.
13. Reduces Symptoms Of PMS
Many women experience symptoms of PMS just before their monthly menstrual period, occurring with emotional disturbances, irritability and fatigue. While foot reflexology is not the cure for these symptoms, it does help in dealing with them, often reducing their severity and shortening the length of time you experience them.
14. Cleans the body of toxins and impurities
The body has built-in mechanisms for cleaning itself, mainly the Lymphatic excretory and integumentary system (lymph nodes, the kidneys and colon and the skin) : if these become blocked or functions improperly ,toxins and waste matter build up. A healthy body is like healthy home. You have to take the garbage out regularly: reflexology causes all the systems of the body to function more efficiently, including those that eliminate waste products.
15.Helps infertility (just a really small introductions)
If you are trying to conceive naturally, reflexology can help to regulate your menstrual cycle, stimulating ovulation by working the reflexes associated with the reproductive system . Balance hormones by working the endocrine system.
What should I wear?
Loose, casual and comfortable clothing is recommended. You will be on the couch or reclined in a reflexology chair without tight clothing or belts digging in.
Do I remain fully clothed?
Yes! Other than removing socks and shoes and rolling trousers up to the knee. Your clothes remain untouched. I will also place a blanket over you so both warmth and modesty will be retained.
Will it hurt?
You may feel some discomfort if I find an area that is out of balance or congested. The discomfort will only last a short time as I work through the congestion and if necessary I can move on and return to rework the area later in the treatment.
Item Subtitle
This is your item description. Use this space to add a description of the services, products, team members or any other items you want to highlight on your site. Have a lot to say? Easily turn any item into a full page by clicking ‘Create a page from this item’ in the edit panel.
I have ticklish feet, can I still have reflexology?
Yes, first I have to point out that reflexology is not a gentle massage; it involves various degrees of pressure. However I f we find and area on the feet is just too tickly to treat we can switch to using hand reflexology in order for you to receive a full treatment.
How will I feel afterwards?
There is no single answer as everyone can react differently. However most clients feel relaxed and calm and often I hear that they have slept well after the session. You may fell revitalized and full of energy or may be feel aggravated, but this is a good sign which means that your organism is reacting immediately to the treatment as when you use homeopathy remedies. I always recommend after a treatment to drink plenty of water have a light meal have rest and avoid alcohol.
How many treatments will I need?
If you have a specific condition you would like me to work on , I suggest at least 4 sessions initially , to see how the treatment is helpful for you , after that one every 2 or 3 weeks.
However if you would like to have a reflexology treatment only for relaxation you can have it whenever you like or your feel.