From IBS and insomnia to hormone imbalances and muscle pain, it doesn’t take much for us to feel offkilter and lacking in vitality. Yet a short course of reflexology could offer a safe and effective way to establishing greater wellbeing within our bodies – simply by the power of touch.
Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive complementary therapy treatment that dates back to ancient China and Egypt. It’s based on the theory that every part of the human body – organs, glands, muscles, tissues, ligaments and our emotional health – can be mapped to specific reflex points on our feet and hands and therefore affected by any pressure applied to these points. Using fingers, thumbs and knuckles, therapists apply gentle, yet systematic pressure to certain reflexes to locate areas that may feel out of balance (often described as feeling ‘crunchy’ or ‘grizzly’). This in turn stimulates the body’s own natural healing process and a return to homeostasis.
Aside from some 7,000 nerve endings, the average foot has 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 tendons and ligaments which, for many of us, are lucky to get the odd foot massage let alone a relaxing treatment that can melt away a niggling headache simply by the application of pressure to the big toe. Aside from a little discomfort or sensitivity when the therapist locates a reflex point that mirrors an underlying health issue, reflexology should cause minimum pain. Many therapists offer at-home visits which makes the treatment even more appealing, offering a timehonoured remedy for anyone wanting to boost their health in the gentlest of ways. Here are seven reasons to give it a go…
1. Respiratory boosting
Louise Campbell, founder of Reflexology Edinburgh (tinytouchmassage.co.uk/ reflexology) observes that many clients who have had Covid have noticeable dry patches around the lung and chest reflex areas which can feel puffy to the touch. As part of her treatment Louise works on the reflexes for the entire respiratory system and nervous system with the aim of improving lung function, enhancing deeper, more relaxed breathing and relieving constricted chest muscles. “After regular treatments, clients have reported back on an increase in energy and improved sleep patterns with a reduction in feelings of ‘tightness’ on their chest,” says Louise.
2. Balancing hormones
Reflexology can help soothe and regulate many of the symptoms linked to perimenopause and menopause such as hot flushes, night sweats, headaches and mood changes.
“Regular treatments can promote progesterone levels in the body,” explains Louise. “For some clients, the opportunity during a pre-treatment consultation to discuss symptoms, identify triggers and causes, whilst taking into account lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, has enabled them to make changes that support a holistic approach to their health and the new season in life that they’re in. Other clients, usually over a period of three to six months, have reported relief in specific ongoing symptoms, particularly in relation to hot flushes, insomnia and mood fluctuations.”
3. Better sleep
“Reflexology is calming for the nervous system,” explains Louise. “Clients regularly fall asleep during treatments and you can visibly see their breathing slowing down and become deeply relaxed.” With research suggesting poorer sleep patterns for those aged 45-54, reflexology offers a gentle way to help restore equilibrium when counting sheep won’t cut it. “Positive side effects can include lower blood pressure and a positive change in brain wave activity mimicking the light sleep experienced during stages one and two of REM sleep. Many clients report feeling ‘lighter’ after a treatment and sleeping deeply that night,” says Louise.
4. Robust gut health
Growing research tells us a healthy gut means a healthy brain but for anyone suffering from the unpleasant effects of IBS – including bloating, abdominal cramps and excessive wind – it’s reassuring to know that reflexology can help move things along. “Reflexology aims to relax retained tension in the body’s tissues and organs, and balance metabolism in those key organs involved in digestion, namely the stomach, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, small intestine and colon,” explains Louise. “Some clients notice an instant relief during treatments from abdominal pain, as their body relaxes and releases tensions. Others have found it can be a preventative approach to managing their symptoms, particularly if they are anticipating a stressful event or life change.”
5. Restoring vitality
For anyone burning the candle at both ends or feeling the sensation of an empty tank, reflexology can offer a safe, holistic way to get back on your feet again. Ruth Hull, author of The Complete Guide to Reflexology (Lotus Publishing), has been working in natural health for over 23 years and has a passion for helping people struggling with exhaustion, fatigue or burnout (ruthhull.com). “Whilst you’re slowing down and relaxing, the treatment will help improve your body’s ability to get rid of waste; encourage circulation of both blood and lymph and so enhance your immunity; and it will help to balance your nervous system so that you can cope better with life’s demands,” says Ruth. “You’ll find the session so deeply relaxing that you’ll feel as if you’ve had a proper rest.”
6. Support in pregnancy
The gentle, non-invasive nature of reflexology means it’s an ideal therapy for expectant mums in need of some r-and-r. “During pregnancy many women suffer with ailments such as headaches, backaches or constipation and there are few medications that can be used safely during this time,” explains Ruth. “This is when reflexology comes in to help relieve these common conditions. It’s also safe for newborn babies struggling with colic or digestive issues and what is so beautiful is that your baby can sleep on your chest while you receive the reflexology – so both you and your baby are relaxed and treated at the same time”. It’s advisable to wait until your second trimester for reflexology treatment and to always seek out a therapist trained in pregnancy care.
7. Relieving pain
Pain can come in all shapes and sizes but reflexology can offer much-needed relief from issues such as muscle tension, joint pain, stomach cramps or headaches. “Through deeply relaxing your body and improving your circulation, it helps to remove waste products from your tissues, balance your adrenal-stress response and relax your muscles,” says Ruth. “After a couple of treatments you should notice a reduction in your pain.”
