Top Advantages of Attending A Reflexology Session

Posted by Tom Clark on March 11th, 2023

In the last few years in society, mental health and well-being have come to the forefront of multiple conversations.

Why wouldn't it? Poorly maintained mental health not only leads to more long-term psychological issues but has also been linked to poor physical health, ranging from aches and pains to more serious issues like migraines and even a higher prevalence of cancer.

This is where massages come in. Massages associated with reflexes are a complementary therapy that has been gaining popularity since about the year 2000. Reflex massages for feet are based on the principle that different points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to different organs and parts of the body. By applying pressure to these points, a reflexologist can stimulate the body's natural healing processes and promote relaxation and wellbeing. While this treatment is often used to treat physical ailments, it can also be an effective tool for improving mental health. Great!

While medication can be helpful for people who have been diagnosed with mental health issues, it is important to also look after your daily wellbeing, and this article will explore how attending foot-based massage and reflex sessions regularly can help.

Reduces Stress

Stress and anxiety are two of the most prevalent mental health issues that people face today. Reflexology can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which in turn can improve mental health. When pressure is applied to the feet, it stimulates the nervous system and triggers the body's natural relaxation response. This response can help to lower heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate and promote feelings of calm and relaxation.

Improve Sleep Quality

In addition to promoting relaxation, this kind of foot massage can also help to improve sleep quality. Lack of sleep is a common problem for many people, and it can have a negative impact on mental health. Or, if you have a diagnosis of a mental health issue, it can have a severe impact on your circadian rhythm, causing you to suffer from insomnia or hyposomnia. Foot-based massages can help to improve sleep by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, this technique can help people who suffer from sleep disturbances get a more rested sleep and get the mental and physical benefits that come with that. Great!

Reduces Symptoms of Depression

Depression is another common mental health issue that can be helped by foot-based massages. Depression is often characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of energy. Massages overall, and especially those that are aimed at the feet, can help to improve mood and increase energy levels by stimulating the body's natural healing processes. By releasing endorphins and other natural feel-good chemicals, reflexology can help to lift the mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Self-Care

Another way that this kind of massage can improve mental health is by promoting self-care. Many people who are suffering from mental health issues neglect their physical health, which can exacerbate their symptoms and can lead to lowered self-esteem and poor feelings of self-worth. Attending these massage sessions can help to promote self-care by encouraging people to take time for themselves and focus on their physical and mental wellbeing, much in the same way as attending a massage session. By taking care of their feet and practicing self-massage techniques, people can improve their physical health and reduce stress and anxiety.

Remember, if you have a mental health issue that is diagnosed, massages should formulate only one part of your mental health plan. In order to stay well, you will likely need a multidisciplinary approach, which may include doctors, a mental health nurse, and a therapist. Stay well!