*Lorraine
This week’s article from Ennis based Reflexologist, Lorraine Hughes offers the benefits of Reflexology during Pregnancy.
Pregnancy reflexology has become incredibly popular over the last 20 years or so.
As reflexology stimulates the 7,000 nerve endings in the feet it helps to relax muscles in the body leading to a wonderful sense of wellbeing for expectant mothers. Circulation is also improved and energy is increased. With the promotion of relaxation, the body is supported in general pain relief which is good news for anyone experiencing hyperemesis (morning sickness), nausea, constipation, back ache or fatigue during their pregnancy.
Reflexology involves applying pressure to a number of acupressure points in the foot that reflect or correspond to parts of the body through zones of energy. It works by balancing the whole body mentally, physically, emotionally & spiritually. Before starting pregnancy reflexology, it is important to see advice from your care team in case of any underlying issues.
I work with pregnant clients from the second trimester (week 13) onwards and regular reflexology treatments are a great way to switch off and hopefully reduce stress, anxiety & fatigue. Using reflexology during pregnancy is a really practical way to restore and maintain your body’s ever-changing hormonal balance. progesterone and estrogen rise dramatically and this can impact on energy levels, emotions and memory – sometimes referred to as ‘baby brain’. Other pregnancy hormones like oxytocin and hCG may lead to irritability and restlessness.
Reflexology provides a calm safe space to just let go and it works so well on the endocrine system, focusing in particular on the pituitary gland and hypothalamus as they are involved in hormone production and secretion. The vagus nerve system is also being activated and strengthened a treatment. This bundle of nerves originates in the brain stem and wanders down the neck crossing over into the thorax region and abdomen before finishing near the colon. It induces a powerful relaxation response and has a calming effect on the organs of the body.
This combination is engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of the nervous system which encourages the body to relax, rest and digest and hence why it can help with digestive issues and morning sickness during pregnancy.
One approach with pregnancy reflexology is to have regular or monthly treatments coming closer to the due date to help prepare for labour and for your recovery after the birth. The frequency of treatments really depends on each individual with some expectant mothers using reflexology to induce labour and during labour itself.
For more information contact Lorraine at 087 6595417 or check out www.glenina-reflexology.ie.
