Ask the Expert: Farrah Voll On All Things Facial Reflexology

Q: Can you share your journey into reflexology? What inspired you to pursue this healing art?

My passion for reflexology began on Instagram when I connected with the late, beautiful Danna Omari, a holistic esthetician based out of New York. I followed along with her videos and found it to be a powerful self practice as I searched for methods of graceful aging. It was a surprise to me that it would be so soothing to my nervous system as well! In 2020, I was diagnosed with cancer and immediately turned to facial reflexology self-practice to support my emotional state and overcome feelings of body dysmorphia which resulted from a few surgeries and the loss of my hair. I eventually found a local practitioner to learn what it felt like to completely disconnect and enjoy the treatment from the perspective of a recipient. The experience was otherworldly and beyond meditative. During my healing, my hair grew thick (strong kidneys,) my skin was glowing and lifted (healthy spleen,) and my nervous system was calm, happy and regulated. I knew then that I wanted to pay this practice forward and help support others in their own healing journeys.

Q: What kind of training or certifications have you completed, and how have they shaped your approach to reflexology?

I have certifications from Mind Body Beauty Institute and have completed three courses in facial reflexology that include face mapping, a study of the 5 elements, gua sha, fascia release, and lymph drainage. Most recently, I studied with Yakov Gershovich receiving my certificate in sculptural facelifting and I just finished my certification in quantum facelift as well as foot reflexology. 

Q: What are some of the most common benefits your clients experience from reflexology, particularly facial reflexology?

The most common piece of feedback is that my clients experience a great night’s sleep after a session. Some other common benefits include sinus pressure relief, better digestion, a regulated menstrual cycle and being in an overall better mood. By balancing the nervous system, clients find they are able to maintain a calm disposition in times one would otherwise be triggered. It’s a beautiful practice to control an overactive mind and nurture a calm demeanor. From a beauty standpoint, similar to gua sha, the skin tone looks more even, the eyes always appear brighter and more open and fine lines can even appear softer.

Q: Can you explain some specific techniques used in facial reflexology and how they differ from traditional reflexology methods?

Most commonly, people are familiar with foot reflexology where traditionally pressure points are accessed with the hands. While facial reflexology also maps out the human body and all of the acupressure points of its organs, the method is usually practiced with a reflexology tool. This can be either made of a high-grade metal or natural stone - and pressure is applied on the face. The face is mapped out into zones for specific treatments. For instance, Zone 1 is all about relaxation and support. It encompasses the points of the back and spinal cord (to encourage feeling heard, safe and having your needs met) as well as the mind (reducing mind chatter and improving brainwave state), the third eye (improved intuition and spiritual connection) and the pituitary gland (activating the parasympathetic nervous system.) 

Q: How do you see facial reflexology complementing other beauty and wellness practices, such as skincare routines or meditation?

Beauty and wellness routines have such a profound effect on how people feel. When you spend any time cultivating a loving relationship with yourself, you are bound to see the effects of that tenderness throughout the day. Facial reflexology is a natural complement in that it has beauty benefits by supporting graceful aging, and it has the potential to leave you feeling centered and grounded. Since the organs are being directly accessed by corresponding points on the face, balance is brought to the entire nervous system and puts us in a state of homeostasis which is where we thrive. 

Q: How can our readers incorporate the Wildling reflexology tool into their daily self-care routine for facial reflexology?

The Wildling reflexology spoon is great! I love how lightweight and easy it is to manage and travel with! By utilizing the spoon end to apply your daily skincare you’re instinctively reminded to do your facial reflexology practice. It really doesn’t take much - anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes a day can really help. Actually, most people find it so soothing they don’t want to stop after 10-15 minutes and it quickly becomes a healthy habit.

Q: What advice would you give to someone new to reflexology who wants to explore its benefits for themselves, particularly at home?

My best advice regarding reflexology, or  honestly any beauty or somatic ritual, would be consistency. Find a space familiar and comfortable to you that you can leave your reflexology tool visible - I like to keep one on top of my nightstand and one in my bathroom, next to my toothpaste. Leaving it where you are guaranteed to see it daily is like setting an alarm to remember to use it. I've now found myself using my reflexology spoon in the car (when stopped in traffic,) on the living room couch during Friday family movie nights, and in the middle of the night if I have trouble sleeping. The other piece of advice is that you can’t really do anything wrong - with the exception of avoiding the philtrum (little valley area between your nose and upper lip) while TTC or while pregnant as it is used to induce labor. There are protocols for different symptoms or personal goals that you can learn from practitioners like me online but overall any lay person can simply use their intuition and a gentle hand to find support through facial reflexology self practice.

Q: How can our readers come in to see you and/or stay informed?

My treatment room is located in San Diego but I love to host pop-ups in salons and studios all over Orange County and Los Angeles occasionally as well. I can also be found on IG as following.farrah where readers can learn tips and tricks to reflexology self-care as well as to schedule an appointment with me in-person via DM.