Reflexology is based on the principle that there are certain reflex points on the feet, which are linked to different organs of the body. When certain points are stimulated, they in turn stimulate specific body parts. The main use of reflexology is usually as a stress inhibitor, as it helps the whole body to relax and increase the endorphin secretion, which elevates the feel good factor.

Reflexology feels like a vigorous foot massage, during which the reflexologist stimulates specific reflex points on your foot which are thought to link into energy channels called meridians running throughout the body, as in Chinese Medicine and acupuncture. By pressing one reflex point in the foot, the reflexologist influences the energy flow around all the other organs and body areas that run along that meridian.

 

Reflexology is particularly successful when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Apart from relaxation, medical tests have shown it can boost blood circulation, reduce insomnia and depression and help balance hormonal levels and regulate the menstrual cycle. As far as fertility is concerned there hasn’t been much research done, although a small trial in Denmark studied 108 women with an average age of 30 who had been trying to conceive for an average of 6.7 years. Many dropped out of the trial, but 19 of the remaining 61 conceived within six months of completing the treatment. It does appear, therefore, that this ancient therapy may have a particular affinity with fertility and many practitioners say they find it helpful for all types of fertility inhibiting conditions including sexual problems, anxiety and sperm and ovulation problems. According to the Association of Reflexologists it’s also been found to be of assistance to those women suffering from conditions that inhibit fertility, such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome.

 

If you are having problems getting pregnant a reflexology session may be helpful but as always when problems with fertility are the case, a fertility boosting diet and lifestyle changes (clearly outlined in my book Get Pregnant Faster – see the Resources Page) need to be made and you need to be checked medically to rule out underlying conditions that could be stopping you getting pregnant. The treatment itself is relaxing and non-invasive but be aware that after the treatment it is quite common to experience sweating, diarrhoea and increased urination for a few days. This is a sign that your body’s elimination systems have been stimulated and are doing their job and flushing out accumulated toxins and waste products. You may temporarily feel lethargic and tearful or even nauseous but again this is temporary and a part of the healing process.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 1st, 2008 at 3:30 am and is filed under Alternative therapies, Fertility. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.