The holiday season is well upon us and everyone is looking forward to spending time with family and friends.
It is also a time which puts tremendous strain on our digestive system. The tendency to eat rich foods in large quantities and the stress of the preparations takes its toll.
When we are stressed our bodies natural reaction is to slow down digestion, who needs to digest when we are preparing for ‘flight or fight’?
This is a great mechanism for short term stress but unfortunately our modern lifestyles often mean we are living with long term stress, leading to inefficient digestion.
So let’s see how reflexology could help keep things running smoothly…
Reflexology & Digestive Health
Firstly, receiving regular reflexology sessions from a certified reflexologist will keep your whole body in balance and more able to cope with everyday stress.
You will be able to think more clearly, so that ‘to do’ list will be more easily accomplished.
When you are faced with digestive problems such as indigestion, constipation or increased gas, some self-help techniques can provide relief.
For example, the burning sensation of indigestion or acid reflux can be helped by gentle downward strokes (from mouth to stomach) on the esophagus reflex, on the sole of the left foot as indicated in the diagram.
Holding a finger or thumb gently on the cardiac sphincter reflex (also shown on the left foot) can also give relief.
To stimulate a sluggish colon, firm circular clockwise spirals using your thumbs on the lower half of the sole both feet can also help. Start with the right foot and then move onto the left following the path of the colon.
Alternatively, stimulating these reflexes with foot roller or golf ball has a similar effect.
I hope you have a Happy, healthy holidays and a wonderful New Year!