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FUNCTIONAL REFLEX THERAPY
Functional Reflex Therapy was established by Lorraine Senior who is an experienced teacher working with children with Special Educational Needs, and also a Reflexologist. Functional Reflex Therapy offers a unique relaxation routine supported with the FRT tool kit and is already being used as a timetabled therapy in schools and also at home for children and young adults with Autism, other non-specific communication difficulties, learning difficulties, children with challenging behaviours and children with high levels of stress and anxiety. It is also used in care homes with adults who are affected by conditions such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s. This form of therapy can also be used to achieve relaxation, which can help in dealing with stressful situations in any environment.
Functional Reflex Therapy is based on the theory and practice of Reflexology. The therapist uses a combination of movements of their hands, fingers and thumbs over specific areas and specific reflex points of the client’s feet and lower legs, or their hands and forearms. These movements are delivered in a flowing style, with each movement being repeated in a routine which usually lasts for approximately 15 - 20 minutes and provides a sense of calmness and relaxation.
The primary outcome of Reflexology using the Functional Reflex Therapy Approach is relaxation. The therapy encourages the body to relax and relieve tension through a combination of positive touch and relaxation techniques. FRT affects the sympathetic nervous system, that is the system which prepares us for 'fight or flight', both calming the production of the stress hormones including cortisol, and increasing production of the'happy' hormones, such as seratonin. The routine can be extremely beneficial for those experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety and depression. The routine helps to create calming conditions which may encourage a better focus, concentration and receptiveness. For children at school, it can help in their personal preparation for learning and ongoing activities.
Regular Reflexology may:
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Reduce anxiety and stress related conditions
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Induce relaxation and calm
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Help with sleep disorders
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Help improve mood
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Help concentration and focus
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Have a positive effect on issues that affect individuals and those around them in many areas of their everyday lives.
The Workshop
This workshop is For Parents, Family members & Carers who support children with autism, ASD, learning difficulties, neurological impairment, challenging behaviour, sleep issues and children with high levels of anxiety and stress.
The workshop comprises of two 2½ hour sessions, usually a week apart, intended to be friendly, fun and informative.
FRT centres around the RAINBOW relaxation routine - a sequence of movements each labelled with a colour of the rainbow to help individuals learn and remember the routine. The routine can be used in the home at times of need to help induce relaxation.
• In session one, I will teach you the principles, techniques and benefits of FRT, including the 6 C's, and the hand routine. Working as a pair, you will be be able to practise the routine on each other's hands with my guidance. I will give you handouts of the routines to support you so that you can go away and practice at home.
• In session two we will share information and questions from your practice at home, and then we move on to the feet. The routine is exactly the same, and you will also receive handouts detailing the foot routine.
(It must be noted that these workshops are not for professionals who want to use FRT as part of their work as this is not a qualification in Reflexology. This worshop is for parents and carers to use at home)
Reflexology does not claim to diagnose or cure medical conditions, it can, however, facilitate the body’s own healing processes which may bring relief from symptoms of many conditions.