Many people relieve stress through reflexology every day without realizing it.

They rub a sore spot and thus relieve a temporary imbalance. Reflexologists use special massage techniques on the feet to relieve tension in the mind and body.

Long-term stress affects the endocrine system, and so the reflexologist will try to balance any imbalances in reflex areas associated with the organs that make up the endocrine system: the pineal gland, the pancreas, the adrenal gland, etc.

An indicator of long-term stress is the condition of the adrenal gland reflex area. The adrenal gland is triggered during the “flight or fight” response. The reflexologist works on these points to balance them and in so doing brings relaxation and relief from stress to the client.

Many disorders are stressed related and increasing numbers of people are suffering from stress related conditions. The severity of these conditions and the effect of stress vary with each individual.

Some of the most common effects of stress include:-

• hypertension
• ulcers
• indigestion
• constipation
• IBS
• headaches or migraines
• palpitations
• panic attacks and depression.

Stress causes tension and therefore causes muscles to tighten up, thus affecting the nervous system, which causes pain. Blood vessels then constrict so the blood cannot flow as freely round the body carrying the oxygen and nutrients. The effects of the reflexology treatment induces the relaxation of muscles,easing physical tension so the nervous system can function normally, thus benefiting the other systems in the body. Other effects include:

• Blood vessels relax, so the oxygen and nutrients can be carried freely around the body by the blood to all the tissues
• The lymphatic system works more effectively, helping to rid the body of toxins and impurities
• Breathing becomes more even and deeper
• Balancing hormone levels
• Revitalising the client, so they feel calm, relaxed, balanced and re-energised