Reflexology for stress
Modern life can be stressful. We can fall into the trap of always putting ourselves last with the needs of others being met before our own. This can leave us feeling exhausted, anxious and overwhelmed. Stress can come from many directions - work, finances, relationships. It can be one big thing or lots of little things. And stress can show itself in many forms - not just the "typical" reaction of becoming emotional. It can manifest through a variety of symptoms including muscle tension, headaches, digestives issues and sleep disturbances.
Many people don't even realise they are stressed. If it's put to them they reply with "I'm fine. I'm just busy."
It is estimated that 1 in 4 people will experience some kind of mental health problem in the course of a year. Mixed anxiety and depression is the most common mental disorder in Britain.
Scientific evidence that Reflexology reduces stress and anxiety
Clinical Studies
Many clinical studies have investigated the potential effectiveness of reflexology as a complementary treatment for stress and anxiety. These studies frequently use rigorous scientific methods to assess how reflexology affects participants overall wellbeing.
In one study, heart surgery patients who received a 20 minute treatment once a day for four days – reported less anxiety than the control group.
Another small study assessed the benefit of a 30 minute treatment on breast and lung cancer patients. Participants reported lower levels of anxiety than those who received no reflexology therapy.
I am trained in Mindful Reflexology which aims to support clients suffering with stress, anxiety and depression. Mindfulness meditation is based on Buddhist techniques which may help people change the way they think and feel about their experiences, especially stressful experiences. Mindfulness aims to achieve a relaxed, non-judgemental awareness of thoughts, feelings and sensations.
If you're looking for a natural, holistic way to manage stress then why not put your feet up and give reflexology a try?
