Using Reflexology to generate relaxation not only alleviates the symptoms of stress but also allows the body in this rested and relaxed state to return to balance and heal itself.
By making time for relaxation in your life you can create a sense of calm and wellbeing leading to improved health.
Reflexology for Anxiety and Stress Relief
How Reflexology can help manage stress and anxiety
Long term stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on your health and wellbeing. It is the prolonged exposure to stress, the over production of stress hormones that can take a physical and psychological strain in the body leading to exhaustion and illness. Reflexology is very effective in managing and reducing your anxiety and stress. By gently working on the reflex points relating to specific areas of the body Reflexology can produce a deep state of relaxation in body and mind. Physically, tension is released, heart rate slows down and blood pressure decreases.
Stress and the affects on the nervous system
When we are in a state of stress the sympathetic part of the nervous system is activated automatically and prepares the body for the stressful situation or event. Just as the stress response exists as a a survival mechanism the body also has a counter balancing relaxation response which is known as the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the rest and digest system. When this response is generated, stress hormones drop, heart rate and blood pressure decrease and the body returns back to its process of rest and repair.
Reflexology for Anxiety and Stress - Managing the effects
Regular Reflexology sessions are an excellent way of offsetting the unhealthy effects of stress. By using Reflexology for anxiety and stress relief the body is gently encouraged to reach a place of deep relaxation, moving towards improved functioning of all the body systems. Through the stimulation of the foot reflexes the parasympathetic part of the nervous system is activated allowing the body to rest and recover. If you would like to know more how Reflexology can help you to manage your stress and anxiety please contact me here.
Symptoms of anxiety and stress
- sleep problems
- digestive issues
- headache
- fatigue
- mental fog
- restlessness
- mood swings
- panic attacks
- nervousness
- anger
The charity mind has some useful tips for relaxation
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/relaxation/relaxation-tips/
Frequently asked questions
Is Reflexology just like a foot massage?
Reflexology treatments do involve some massage techniques, particularly at the beginning of the session when getting the feet ready for treating. But reflexology is not specifically a massage therapy. Reflexology involves the stimulation of the reflex points using a foot map as guidance. Learn more here.
Is it suitable for everyone?
Reflexology is suitable for anyone at any age, occasionally there maybe times when it is not suitable to treat and any underlying health problems will be considered.
Is Reflexology safe during pregnancy?
Yes, it it totally safe and very beneficial for mums to be. It is a gentle way of relieving anxiety and stress during pregnancy. Many reflexologists are trained in maternity reflexology. Learn more here
Is it ticklish?
As feet can be quite sensitive some people wrongly assume they will be too ticklish for reflexology. The treatment is not designed to be ticklish. The feet are held firmly and the Reflexologist applies the right amount of pressure, involving specific techniques.
Is the therapy diagnostic?
Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice. It is not medical, it works holistically, therefore a Reflexologist cannot diagnose conditions or health problems. The aim of the therapy is to restore the body's natural ability for self-healing by encouraging energy flow around the body.
Is it painful?
Reflexology creates deep relaxation and calm and generally the experience should be relaxing, Sometimes there could be some reflex points which are a little bit more tender than others, due to imbalances in the energy pathways.
What should I wear during the reflexology session?
It's best to wear loose and comfortable clothing, the only clothing to be removed are socks, tights and shoes, all that is exposed are the feet and ankles.
What happens during the Reflexology session?
Your first appointment will include taking a thorough health consultation. You will then be asked to relax on the couch with feet exposed. Firstly, feet are cleansed and massaged gently before the treatment commences. during the treatment reflexology techniques such as thumb walking will be applied all over different areas of the feet. After the session the feet will be cleansed with hot towels leaving you and your feet feeling perfectly pampered.
How often should I have a treatment?
If you are looking for Reflexology to help with a specific condition then a course of regular sessions is advised. A lot of people enjoy having Reflexology treatments for maintaining their health and well-being and for just enjoying the deep relaxation and time out it provides.