Discussing Reflexology as a Supportive Treatment
By Jillian Boucek, LMT
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet, hands, ears, face and head to help you feel better. Modern reflexology is based on an ancient form of foot and hand therapy practiced in Asia, the Mediterranean, and North Africa, as well as North American tribes of indigenous people for thousands of years. Its current iteration was pioneered by a woman named Eunice Ingham (1889-1974), also known as the mother of modern reflexology. After extensive research within the field of ‘Zone Therapy’, developed by Dr. William Fitzgerald, Ms. Ingham developed a map on the feet where each point corresponds to a certain part of the body. She learned that using acupressure and/or massage on these points created a positive effect on its corresponding body part. All of the modern reflexology maps used in practice today were developed by Ms. Ingham, and her work is carried on today at the International Institute of Reflexology.
Reflexology is a supportive treatment for individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain, hormonal or nervous system dysregulation, digestive issues, as well as circulatory and immune system issues. It’s a successful balancing therapy when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle, and has been shown to improve sleep patterns.
The Impact of Stress
Stress has a significant impact upon our bodies. Chronic stress causes the body to over produce fight or flight hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This slows the production of other hormones that regulate organic and immune system function, and relax the body. Long-term stress can lead to adrenal exhaustion. For women specifically, the adrenal glands are important for estrogen production after menopause and therefore need support. Reflexology, at the very minimum, is very relaxing. Spending time intentionally reducing stress, and calming the nervous system allows the body to produce hormones that support healthy function of the adrenal glands.
Adrenal fatigue can present with symptoms such as, but not limited to; hormonal cycle irregularities, temperature dysregulation, emotional fluctuation or dysregulation, weight gain, and sleep disruption.
Examples of stress that may lead to adrenal fatigue include:
Busy lifestyle with no down time
Managing a family/home with no down time
People pleasing
Feeling like there’s not enough time to accomplish “tasks”
Drinking alcohol
Dehydration
Long work days/weeks with no down time
PTSD/CPTSD
Not enough exercise to burn off stress, stave off weight gain, and maintain endorphin levels and cardiac health (spoiler alert! Stop doing heavy cardio)
Drinking too much caffeine
Eating infrequently
Societal or cultural expectations
Reflexology and acupressure are recognized as safe approaches to health and healing with no negative side effects.
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Jillian Boucek is a licensed massage therapist with 28+ years of experience with a wide range of training in many modalities. Jillian also holds a degree in food science and human nutrition from The University of Alabama. A valuable member of our Mariposa Massage team, Jillian is in her 3rd year with us.
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