One of the most important benefits of reflexology is its effect in reducing stress. Stress is intangible it cannot be seen, heard, smelt or tasted, but it certainly is detected through the physical, mental and emotional changes in the body. Not all stress is negative; at times, it can be immensely stimulating. Nevertheless, the long-term constant exposure to stress may have devastating effects on the body.
The word stress is derived from the Latin word “stringere” which means ‘to draw tight’. Our reaction to stress is a primitive response to survival. When presented with danger, our ancestors drew tight their energy to escape or attack commonly known as the ‘fight-or flight’ reaction. Historically, stress was a reaction to external forces exerting pressure on mankind and the response was physical. Imagine the consequences today, if you attacked your boss, or ran screaming from confrontation with a colleague?
Evolution has brought about very different survival needs. The pace of our world is fast, with technology, traffic, noise, cell phones job, family pressure, fear of disease and financial issues. In recent times, we have come to recognize the response to a situation depends on the interaction between the person and his environment. The intensity of the stress experienced is determined by how a person feels he can cope with an identified threat. Today, we recognize that every thought causes a chemical change in the body.
The hormonal and chemical defense mechanisms of the body’s response system to a threat have not changed from primitive times, but today they have little outlet. The inability to express any physical response to a stressful situation means our natural instincts are suppressed, which can cause the body harm. Often stress situations are continuous, so the body is permanently on alert. The physical stress overload on the body eventually explodes and the systems out of balance can cause physical and mental harm.
When confronted with a situation we perceive harmful, our thoughts trigger two branches of the central nervous system – the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The sympathetic system initiates the involuntary responses designed to activate all the major systems in the body. The first response is a flood of hormone secretions from the pituitary and next the adrenal and non-adrenal glands in to the bloodstream. These hormones create the actions of nervous stimulation in a number of the organs of the body. The stress response always activates the immune system.
The stress chemicals induce physiological changes in the body to react to the pending danger. Blood supply to the brain is increased, to improve judgment and decision-making. To produce additional energy the heart speeds up and fuels generated from glucose, fats and stored sugars are released into the blood stream. Additional blood is sent to the muscles for instant action. There is a reduction in the blood flow to the stomach and intestines, because the body does not relay on digestion and excretion in dangerous situations. Blood is drained from the skin and other areas of the body to be used in the muscles. The body is now ready for a short burst of activity to respond to the imposing threat.
The parasympathetic nervous system relaxes the body after a stressful event. If the body is in a continuous stress mode, it becomes difficult for the parasympathetic system to work. The body begins to weaken and may become more susceptible to a variety of diseases. These may include asthma, allergies, constipation, diabetes, depression, hypertension, high blood pressure, heart attacks, migraines, skin disorders and ulcers. The manner, in which events lead to illness, depends largely on how a person perceives situations, the impact of major life changes, (such a birth, death, marriage, divorce and employment) and his or her perception of their ability to cope.
We may not be able to alter the stress situations in life but we can alter how we cope. Reflexology starts with a calming action that brings relief to tense nerves and knotted muscles. It helps banish fatigue and sends a new vitality pushing through the entire body. The body experiences a greater flow of blood throughout the body without undue strain, pressure or overexertion of the heart. Reflexology assists in the overall nourishment of the body. It will release the mind, body and soul from the grips of fear and anxiety. A balanced mind manifests a balanced body.
Reflexology is a form of natural healing which has been practiced for centuries. The basic premise is the entire body is mirrored on the feet through a system of reflex points. The application of gentle stimulations of the reflexes in both feet increases energy flow, promotes relaxation, and encourages the body, mind and spirit to function optimally.
To schedule a complimentary 30-minute foot reflexology session please call 860-875-9642. The Sole Connection, llc office is located at Colonial Square, 68 Hartford Turnpike, Tolland, CT. Office hours are Monday – Friday 9 am to 8 pm, Saturday 9 am to 3 pm. Sunday appointments are accommodated. You are invited to visit the website at www.thesoleconnectionllc.com.