Alongside conventional medicine, complementary therapies are crucial to recovery and wellness programmes. Cancer Research estimates around 40% of cancer patients use holistic treatments to reduce anxiety, alleviate pain and enhance overall feelings of wellbeing. What’s more, the NHS offers everything from acupuncture and homoeopathy, in addition to mainstream medicines.

One of these alternative treatments is reflexology – a type of massage that focuses on the hands, ears and feet. Thanks to its restorative powers and emphasis on pressure points, it’s especially effective at combatting nerves.

Curious to learn more? Keep reading as we reveal everything you need to know about reflexology for anxiety, including the science behind the method and what to expect from your first session.

The science behind reflexology therapy

So, what exactly is reflexology therapy? The treatment usually involves massaging the soles of the feet to ease anxiety and other mood-related disorders, release tension, ease headaches and much, much more.

The ancient method comes from Chinese medicine and is based on the theory that specific pressure points are connected to different organs and functions. For instance, a reflexologist might focus on the heel to alleviate sciatica or the toes for sinus infections.

On top of this, practitioners believe that massage moves energy or qi (pronounced “chee”) around the body, cleansing meridian channels to restore health and wellness.

Sounds like a load of nonsense? Energy manipulation aside, reflexology for anxiety, much like other forms of massage, calms the central nervous system by provoking a state of deep relaxation. Research shows that massage is an effective treatment for pain, ADHD, depression and immune conditions like cancer.

Can reflexology help with anxiety?

We’ve already discussed how massage can soothe frazzled nerves, but can reflexology help with anxiety in particular? The answer is a resounding yes! While more research needs to be done, countless positive reports support its efficacy alongside conventional treatments.

One small study assessed the benefit of a 30 minute treatment on breast and lung cancer patients. Participants reported lower levels of anxiety than those who received no reflexology therapy.

In another study, heart surgery patients received a 20 minute treatment once a day for four days – they reported less anxiety than the control group.

What are the reflexology points for anxiety?

It’s a good idea to understand where the reflexology points for anxiety are so you can offer yourself some short-term relief at home.

In the hands, apply pressure to the Heart 7 (HT7) point – the centre for extreme anxiety and related disturbances, such as insomnia, chest pain and heart palpitations. Find the spot below the crease of your wrist, towards your outer hand.

As for the feet, locate the Great Surge pressure point between the first and second toes, around an inch below the web of the toes. Massaging this area is believed to decrease stress, menstrual cramps and digestive conditions.

What to expect during reflexology for anxiety

Your first reflexology and anxiety session might feel a little nerve-wracking, but there’s no need to worry. Our friendly and highly qualified reflexologist will put you at ease and explain everything you need to know beforehand.

We only use premium ingredients to remove dead skin cells and hydrate your feet, including Pevonia’s natural sea salt and algae scrub. Once thoroughly relaxed, your therapist will carry out a tailored treatment, depending on your specific ailments.

Although reflexology therapy is generally safe, speak to your doctor beforehand if you have any of the following conditions:

• Gout
• Foot ulcers
• Fungal infections
• Blood clots
• Varicose veins

5 extra benefits of reflexology therapy

1. Promotes circulation

Any form of massage, whether reflexology or hot stone, is a fantastic way to boost circulation, especially in the lower extremities. The masseuse literally pushes blood through the veins upwards towards the heart. Plus, the kneading stimulates muscle contractions which have a similar effect.

Searching for other ways to improve your circulation? Try Nordic walking – it’s a fun and equally effective alternative treatment that gets the blood pumping while protecting vulnerable joints.

2. Aids recovery from illness and exercise

Reflexology for anxiety is also beneficial for recovery from illness or exercise. We’ll start with the latter – rubbing your feet drains excess fluid, relieves sore muscles and untangles painful knots for enhanced athletic performance.

As for illness, reflexology doesn’t “cure” disease. However, many praise its mood-boosting effects, and positive thinking often makes the recovery process much easier to navigate.

3. Stimulates healthy nerve function

The body’s entire nervous system responds to outside influences, including touch. As such, reflexology stimulates nerve function for healthy responses and sensations. The application of pressure can also release trapped nerves for long-term pain-relief.

4. Eliminates harmful toxins

Reflexology therapy removes toxins from the skin through heat, touch and luxurious cleansing products. As most of us are always on our feet, you can imagine how much dirt and grime build up throughout the day!

We could also take toxins to mean “emotional blockages”. Thanks to its emphasis on pressure points and free-flowing qi, reflexology restores balance to our body, mind and spirit.

5. Offers a space away from stress

Quite simply, treating yourself with a personalised reflexology session is the ultimate escape. You’ll enjoy 80 minutes of uninterrupted relaxation, free from pesky distractions and to-dos. Afterwards, you’ll feel refreshed and recharged to tackle whatever life throws at you. Plus, your feet will look beautiful!

Feeling especially indulgent? We also offer several other complementary holistic therapies, including Reiki, Hopi ear candling and scalp massages.

 

Relax and recharge with a reflexology for anxiety treatment

Reflexology for anxiety is an effective tool alongside other therapies. As well as being cost-effective, it’s non-invasive and generally safe for everyone. To get the most from your treatment, relax in our gorgeous spa beforehand – we have a range of world-class facilities, including a hydrotherapy pool, herbal sauna and gym. What more could you want?

Ready to kick-start your health and wellness journey? Contact our lovely team at Homefield Grange. Don’t hesitate to call 01536 712 219 or email enquiries@homefieldgrange.co.uk, and we’ll respond as soon as possible.