LUX Autumn 2018

103 Willow Therapies is a specialised Reflexology practice in Halesworth, Suffolk. In June, LUXlife recognised Willow Therapies in the 2018 Health, Beauty & Wellness Awards, with the title of ‘Best for Cancer Care Reflexology Services’ in Suffolk. We spoke to Reflexologist, Kay Mitchell, to find out how she helps her clients. The modern world is one of juxtaposition; a digital-first, techno-obsessed wonderland, that has, in recent years, thoroughly embraced traditions of the past. As wellness takes centre stage, and yoga retreats become ever more popular, people are turning to alternative medicine to ease the ailments arising in an over-worked, non-stop population. Nestled in the north-eastern corner of Suffolk, Willow Therapies is an independent that specialises, primarily, in Reflexology – an alternative therapy used to reduce stress and release tension. Firstly, Kay explains exactly what Reflexology is; “Reflexology is a non- intrusive complementary health therapy, based on the theory that different points on the feet, lower leg, hands, face or ears correspond with different areas of the body. Reflexologists work holistically with their clients and aim to work alongside allopathic healthcare to promote better health for their clients. The theory is that Reflexology helps the body to restore its balance naturally.”* As a member of both the Association of Reflexologists, British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC), and the Guild of Holistic Therapists, Kay is certainly qualified in the field. Her expertise and hard-earned talent is held in the highest regard by her community of loyal clients, many of whom have found some relief and relaxation after receiving Reflexology treatment. “I feel that a good therapist is not HBW18043 necessarily in it for ‘the money’ but for the results he or she obtains and the pleasure of seeing clients improve their lives on many levels.” Equally, Kay has no plans to become a Reflexologist full time, preferring instead to focus on treating fewer clients to the best of her ability: “My ‘Therapy Room’ is at present within our Georgian House in the small market town of Halesworth, however I am really looking forward to moving it into a cosy Shepherds Hut in the near future. Willow Therapies consists of me; I don’t employ anyone else at present or indeed have any plans to. I choose to see just a few clients per week and feel that because Willow Therapies is not full time that I can personally devote more time, attention and care to each of these clients.” Reflexology is my passion; I feel really humbled to have helped many of my clients, some in pain, find some peace and relaxation (especially those receiving palliative care). Ultimately, and perhaps most importantly, Kay wants what is best for her client, even if that means directing them towards other treatment options, “In my opinion, a good Therapist will also know when not to treat a client, if I consider that Reflexology is not appropriate I would advise and then suggest alternative avenues e.g. Osteopath, Counsellor etc.” Kay’s extraordinary ability, and her empathy for her clients, led to her being recognised among the winners of LUXlife ’s Health, Beauty & Wellness Awards. For the time being at least, she continues to work out of Halesworth, giving her clients a respite from the stress of their day to day lives. Contact: Kay Mitchell Email Address: [email protected] * www.aor.org.uk The Next Leader in Reflexology Pamper