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How to relieve stress with hand reflexology

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Learn how to relieve stress with this hand reflexology sequence by reflexologist Michele Stevens in preparation for Blue Monday next week

Did you know that any tension in your feet, your hands and your face could affect what’s going on in other areas? Your body is made up of bone, tissues, nerves, tendons, muscles and nerve endings are found all over the body.

Whether it be aches and pains, built up tension or even sleeping problems, reflexologist Michele Stevens guides you through self massage techniques these issues in our latest Healthista self-care series.

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is more than just a foot/hand or face massage. Michele calls reflexology the reboot button for the body, similar to turning the computer on and off.  It allows you the time and space to let the body heal and relax.

Reflexology is an ancient therapy that has been practised for over 5000 years.  It’s based on the theory that different points on the feet, face and hands correspond with different areas of the body and that working on these reflex points stimulates the nervous system, opening up energy pathways that may be blocked or congested.

Whether you believe in it or not, it’s a great opportunity for a few moments of self-care.

hand-chart, how to relieve stress and anxiety with hand reflexology

How to relieve stress – the sequence

Breathe deeply and slowly as these areas are worked.

Diaphragm – Using the thumb of the other hand work across the palm of your hands three times. Working this point helps to release tension held in the whole body.

Pituitary – Using the thumb of the other hand press and circle this point for a few seconds.

The pituitary gland is found at the base of the brain and is often referred to as the ‘master gland’ of the body. This gland produces many hormones and is responsible for releasing hormones that stimulate the adrenal glands, the thyroid glands, the ovaries and testes.

Spine – Using thumb of the other hand work this area at least 3 times to release tension and ease discomfort. Working any areas that are sensitive can help to reduce pain, tension or muscle spasms.

Adrenals – Using the thumb of the other hand, press and circle here and close the fingers of the hand being worked on over the working thumb and breathe deeply and slowly.

These glands can be found at the top of each kidney. They are responsible for producing hormones that we cannot live without, such as sex hormones and cortisol. When stressed the body produces Cortisol and it is this that helps us respond to stress. When we are in a stressed state all the time the production of too much cortisol can damage the body and lead to adrenal fatigue, which affects the metabolism and other areas of the body.

Working this point it helps to calm the body.

For more about Michele and to book an appointment, visit Wellness by Michele Holistic Therapies here. You can also contact Michele Stevens at wellnessbymichele.com who provides this treatment in her own practice in Hayes, Middlesex.

More reflexology content from Michele

Got back pain? This hand reflexology can help quickly 

How to do hand reflexology for sinuses and cold

Got headaches? This hand reflexology sequence could help

Got insomnia? This hand reflexology massage could help

zone face lift, reflexology, therapy, gua sha, micehele stevens, healthista

Michele Stevens is fully qualified and a member of the Association of Reflexologists and Registered with Complimentary & Natural HealthCare Council (CNHC) fro Reflexology. I am a Colour Mirror Practitioner.When you have treatments with me, you will feel safe and nurtured and know that I put you and your interests at the heart of my treatments; and it’s wonderful to know that for that time, no one can disturb you for anything.

 

 

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