Reflexology is a deeply relaxing complimentary therapy suitable for the whole family. It is a non invasive therapy based on the principle that reflexes in the feet, hand and face correspond to different areas of the body. When a stimulus is applied to a reflex point a reaction occurs in the corresponding organs, glands, systems and structures within the body. By using fingers/ thumbs and applying skilled application of pressure to reflex points and zones on the feet, hands or face to encourage the smooth working of your blood circulation, lymphatic system, nervous system and your own energy within. This helps encourage the body to promote natural healing and maintain balance (homeostasis). The treatment does not rely on force and as such is a very gentle and safe holistic therapy. If you have trouble sleeping, getting off to sleep or staying asleep then Reflexology may be an holistic therapy for you to try. It is a very individualised therapy and can be tailored to you by working on specific reflex points such as the pineal gland (releases a hormone melatonin which plays a function in our sleep cycle). Getter better and regular sleep is so important for our health and well-being.
Sleep allows the body and brain to rest, repair, and rejuvenate. During sleep, the body goes through various stages of sleep cycles that are important for physical and mental restoration. During sleep, the brain processes and organizes information learned during the day, helping to solidify memories and improve cognitive function. Sleep is essential for the proper functioning and development of the brain. It is involved in the maintenance of neural connections, the clearance of waste products, and the processing of information. Sleep influences the production and regulation of important hormones, such as growth hormone, cortisol, and melatonin. These hormones are essential for various bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and the sleep-wake cycle.
Sleep is important for the proper functioning of the immune system. During sleep, the body's immune defenses are strengthened, helping to fight off infections and illnesses. Sleep allows the body to conserve energy and resources, as the body's metabolic rate slows down during sleep, reducing the demand for energy. Adequate sleep is crucial for cognitive functions, such as attention, focus, problem-solving, and decision-making. so a lack of sleep can impair these cognitive abilities.
In the modern day world we have far too many distractions in our daily lives and a sleep culture that associates this natural function with laziness. Sleep deprivation causes increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, raises blood pressure and impairs the body to regulate blood sugar. Increased insulin resistance can be a contributing factor to weight gain. Insulin resistance can disrupt the balance of other hormones such as leptin, leading to increased appetite, cravings for high-calorie foods, and a reduced sense of fullness, contributing to weight gain. It raises inflammation within the body and affects how our immune system functions. This impacts how frequently we get coughs and colds and other illness. Sleep deprivation may increase the chances of anxiety and depression. It can affect your cognitive ability and performance at work or home life.
The right amount of sleep is different for each individual and should not be counted on hours but good quality sleep. Waking up feeling refreshed is good for overall health. Waking up without an alarm roughly the same time each day is a good indicator your body's own biological rhythms are working well. If you are not falling asleep within 30 minutes of going to bed there is something within your lifestyle impacting your own natural ability to sleep.
Overall, sleep is a fundamental physiological process that is essential for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Ensuring sufficient and quality sleep is vital for maintaining optimal health and functioning. Reflexology can fit into a busy lifestyle and can easily be part of an individual’s coping strategy resulting in relaxation and increased well-being and better sleep. Why not give it a try!
Lynsey x
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