The menopause begins when women's overies begin to stop producing oestrogen and progesterone. Since these hormones play many roles in the health of our brain, muscles, bones, nerves, liver, immune system, digestion, it's not suprising that our bodies can experience some uncomfortable symptoms whilst readjusting. Most commonly these include hot flushes, night sweats, disrupted sleep and brain fog.
One of the difficulties is that women often find themselves navigating this right of passage at a time when we’re also juggling work, looking after children/teenagers and elderly relatives.
Looking after ourselves often comes last.
The good news is that there is much more research and understanding about the menopause and how we can manage the physical and emotional symptoms. Making time for some reflexology can be one of those tools..
How reflexology can help.
- Aiding deep relaxation: Reflexology is a deeply relaxing experience where we give the body and mind time and space to rest. This is when our bodies heal.
- Aiding better sleep: Having healthy sleep is crucial during a time when the body is going through so much. It has been statistically proven that reflexology can be an effective therapy for reducing sleep disturbances, helping us to feel better during the day
- Relieving stress and anxiety: stress can exacerbate the physical and emotional symptoms of the menopause. It is hard to avoid in modern life. But it can be very helpful to build in time to step away from that stress through reflexology to counter its effects and reduce menopausal symptoms.
- Improving mood: Women's mental health is at risk during the menopause. Hormones play a crucial role in our mood and how we feel. Studies have shown that reflexology can be effective in reducing depression in menopause. Stimulating the pituitary gland, hypothalamus and thymus reflex points can help to regulate our peripheral nervous system. This can help to make some of the changes more bearable and relieve the stress and tension that exacerbates so many of the symptoms listed above.
- Offering a space to be heard: there is so much to be said for being heard. Reflexology isn't just about the feet - we are also here to listen. Having someone who understands the physical changes that occur during the menopause and the emotional challenges that come with that can really help. We are here to work with you and your body to support you through this natural but significant transition.
In 2024 I completed a 19 module course for supporting women through menopause (peri-menopause through to post menopause).
