Looking for a way to de-stress and feel relief from certain types of pain? The ancient practice of reflexology may be for you.

St. Mary’s Hospital in Leonardtown, Md., offers monthly reflexology sessions every first Friday of the month from 2 to 5 p.m. at Health Connections. The next session is April 3. Each session is 20 minutes and costs $20. To register for a session, contact Health Connections at 301-475-6019. Certified reflexologist Susan England, who is also a registered nurse, conducts the sessions. Here is what England has to say about reflexology.     

Q: What is reflexology?

A: First of all, it has nothing to do with whacking a client with a rubber mallet! It is an ancient healing modality dating back to at least 2300 B.C. It is similar to acupuncture in that it is considered energy work but instead of using needles to unblock chi or energy, an acupressure technique is used. Reflexologists use a "thumb walking" technique that applies pressure to areas in the feet, hands and ears. It is believed that specific areas in the feet, hands and ears "reflect" or correspond to organs, glands and joints, etc., in the rest of the body. For instance, the tips of the toes reflect one's sinuses. Applying acupressure to the toes just might promote a sense of relief for someone who has sinus problems.  As a certified reflexologist, I do not diagnose or treat a condition. I can tell a client through training and experience if I believe there is an imbalance in the energy reflecting a particular area in their body. Communication between the practitioner and client is very important and it is the client’s job to tell me whether they feel better after a session.

Q: How will clients feel after the reflexology session?

A: I use relaxation techniques, organic therapeutic-grade essential oils for a touch of aromatherapy and, of course, the thumb walking to get to all areas of the feet. Reflexology is not massage. Clients report afterwards that they feel as relaxed as if they had had a full-body massage. The only clothes that are required to be removed are socks!

Q: Any tips for people interested in the sessions?

A: The best way to fully enjoy the benefits of a reflexology session is to come prepared to relax. Wear comfortable clothing. Wear shoes and socks that can be easily removed. Don't wear a lot of jewelry that might get in the way of having the hands and ears reflexed. No toe rings, please. It's best not to come to a session with a full stomach. The client will be reclining in a fantastic Lafuma chair. Save lunch for after a session. I encourage my clients to drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins unless contraindicated by their physicians and (to) talk to their doctors about having reflexology sessions.

Q: When should people seek reflexology?

A: We all know the effects of stress. Reflexology is a wonderful way to de-stress. I know through the reports of clients that reflexology is effective in relieving all types of pain. It increases circulation. I believe that it has a definite place in the holistic medicine or complimentary medicine category in the same way that acupuncture does … It is another tool, another way to help the body heal itself. There's an old adage that is as true today as it ever was. "No hoof, no horse."  Every nurse or anyone who spends hours on their feet know that if their feet hurt, they hurt all over. If a client didn't get anything out of a session other than a good old-fashioned "foot rub," that would be a good thing in and of itself. I believe they receive more than that.