Getting to Know You - Michelle Becz Reflexologist

Reflexology is gaining in popularity as an incredibly effective healing treatment in the Western world. For those who are unfamiliar with the technique, can you explain what Reflexology is?

Reflexology is a form of natural healing which has been practiced for centuries. It works off the principle that your body is mapped on your feet with reflexes corresponding to organs, glands, and the musculoskeletal system.  Reflexologists use a protocol of manual techniques that stimulate the complex neural pathways linking body systems, supporting the body’s efforts to function optimally.

A reflexology session is deeply relaxing for several reasons.  For one, there are over 7,000 nerve endings per foot, so reflexology is very relaxing to the nervous system.  In addition, the comfortable zero gravity chair I do my sessions in allows the client to happily be in a reclined position for a full session. While clients are nestled under a sheet and blanket and are atop the warm heat of the Biomat, I systematically work the reflexes on the feet…. often lulling them to sleep.

*Reflexologists do not diagnose, prescribe, or treat and we are not a substitute for other medical professionals.

What led you to pursue a career in Reflexology?

I attended Assumption College right after high school and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Social and Rehabilitation services so my work interest always included service to others.  When I had children, I made the decision to be a “stay-at-home” mom and did occasional per-diem work as a social worker in a nursing home.  When my kids reached the ages where they no longer needed so much attention, I began to find myself thinking about work that allowed for a flexible schedule so I could balance work and motherhood, while at the same time nurturing my growing interest in the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit.  In researching my options, I came across the opportunity to train in reflexology.   I remembered some powerful, personal experiences I had when my own feet were worked to relieve pain and receive some much needed nurturing and before I knew it, I was studying reflexology and looking for as many volunteers as possible to learn and perfect the skill.

I know you have seen some incredible changes in clients’ health through Reflexology. Can you tell us about some of these experiences?

In my 10 years of practice, I have had the pleasure of working a lot of feet, and I have witnessed how powerful a reflexology session can be in helping the body regain its balance when struggling with a health challenge.  I have seen clients helped with fibromyalgia, migraines, neuropathy, restless leg syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, knee pain, lymphatic drainage issues, constipation, inflammation, and stress and anxiety among other things.

Your session takes place in a Zero Gravity reclining chair, on top of a BioMat. Most places charge for use of the BioMat, but this is included in your session. Can you tell us what the BioMat does and why you love to use it in your sessions?

When I was practicing in CT, I invested in a BioMat because I believed it complemented a reflexology session well, not only because it generated heat to make the client cozy, but also by offering additional help to the body with detoxification and balancing.   

The BioMat at is an FDA approved therapeutic heating pad.   It has no harmful electromagnetic waves and uses remote computer frequencies that activate the far infrared light waves and negative ions embedded in the amethyst and tourmaline crystals. Here's a breakdown of the benefits:

• Far Infrared heat increases circulation to detoxify the body of harmful toxins and acid waste
• Negative Ions have a positive effect on the rate at which serotonin is oxidized in the blood stream, resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness, and more mental energy.
• Amethyst bolsters the production of hormones and strengthens the cleansing organs, the circulatory system and blood, the immune system and body metabolism.  Amethyst soothes the nervous system and aids in the transmission of neural signals.  Memory skills improve with the use of this stone in therapy.
• Tourmaline is a natural source of negative ions and far infrared rays and is known to be helpful for improving circulation and strengthening the immune system function.

What do you love most about what you do?

There are a couple of things that really make reflexology work that I LOVE.  For one, I really enjoy nurturing my client in a session.  When someone comes in and life is feeling overwhelming, I love being able to nestle them into the chair, cover them up so they feel safe and warm and then pour love into their feet through reflexology.  It is gratifying to know this person came in feeling “tapped out” and I can help refill their energy stores a bit.  I see it as a session of total unconditional love…. I need nothing in return from them so they are free to just receive and reap the full benefit of the session.

The other facet I really enjoy about doing reflexology is assessing and customizing my sessions so they offer the most benefit to the client.  I love tailoring each session and working extra time on the reflexes specific to that individual’s needs. 

What are some ways you nourish yourself, so you can give so much to your clients?

I have learned as a “bodyworker” that I need to receive bodywork as well to keep myself feeling good.  I love getting acupuncture, massage, craniosacral work and facials (I am still looking for a reflexologist) and I have learned that taking time out for myself is not indulgent but rather an investment in my own health.  I also enjoy yoga, taking walks and doing a cardio spin class at least once a week to burn up some of those stress hormones!  But you will also find me sitting and reading with a cup of tea most days and on weekends I like to go on adventures with my husband.

Michelle is available on Mondays, Tuesdays + Fridays. She is also available on the occasional Saturday, by request.

For a limited time, enjoy a Complimentary Spring Detox added to every 75 or 90 Minute Reflexology session. This Spring Detox Add-On will focus on jump starting your lymphatic system, liver, colon, lungs + kidneys