Reflexology
By Alison Fuller, Therapies for your Hormonal Wellbeing
W
hilst Perimenopause and Menopause are natural phases of our reproductive life, they can cause tremendous stress to those experiencing strong physical, emotional and mental symptoms. Reflexology, a hands-on touch therapy, can help ease the transition through these phases and reduce the impact of many symptoms. There are Face, Hand and Ear Reflexology Treatments available, however, the most common is Foot Reflexology. The Therapist uses techniques to work a sequence over each foot using cream or oil to allow a smooth flow and connection. The recipient is likely to experience a feeling similar to a foot massage. The theory is that all the systems and organs of the body are mapped out on the feet in specific areas known as ‘reflexes’. This allows the therapist to focus on systems such as the hormonal and nervous systems or specific organs such as the ovaries and womb to allow a very tailored treatment for the client. Foot Maps were created as early as the 1920s, but additional reflexes have been added since. By mirroring or mapping the whole body on the feet, the therapist can work each reflex, completing a whole-body treatment. The treatment aims to bring about a state of ‘homeostasis’, to encourage the body to find its physiological equilibrium, its stability. I explain it this way as not all our systems are
about balance. Our hormonal system is always in a state of flux, fluctuating according to the needs and demands of the body. Many comment that the experience of menopause is about the body feeling out of control, out of its usual, normal pattern and hence why we aim to encourage the body to find its state of wellbeing again, soothing the transition where strong fluctuation is experienced. Many who have experienced Reflexology find it extremely relaxing and there is a wonderful piece of research that supports this*. It found that during a Reflexology treatment the Vagus Nerve (a cranial nerve) is positively triggered to move the body into its calm state. This is fundamental to our healing process. If we can move away from fight and flight, and into a calm, connected state then the body can begin to reset. This allows for improvement on all levels, mentally, emotionally and physically, allowing us to re-energise and cope with the challenges that transition such as Menopause can bring. Transitional symptoms such as anxiety, hot flushes, insomnia, night sweats, fatigue, cravings, palpitations, erratic behaviour, mood swings and a feeling of losing control can all be greatly improved by calming the nervous system. As stress is linked to increasing the intensity of hormonal symptoms and a feeling of being on high alert, a therapy that can
shift you into a calm state is ideal to reduce the impact of the above symptoms and encourage the body towards a manageable state. Reflexologists cannot diagnose or cure but can provide a bespoke treatment or treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. They often provide a listening ear to support their clients through challenging times. They can recommend lifestyle changes and great resources to help to alleviate the stress that is so often associated by hormonal change. Receiving a Reflexology treatment can be a great way to provide self-care. A time for you to shift into a lovely calm state and reset your body.
Why not give it a try! * Lu WA et al, reported “Foot Reflexology can increase Vagal modulation, decrease Sympathetic Modulation, and lower blood pressure in healthy subjects and patients with coronary artery disease” Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine 17, no. 4 (2011)
