Reflexology during Menopause

 At  a time when so much is changing in your body and brain, and you may be experiencing any number  of worrying and/or inconvenient symptoms, the importance of relaxing and improving sleep cannot be overstated. Reducing stress may also help reduce the impact of some of the numerous menopause symptoms, and feels great too. 

With the start of a new phase of life, and significantly changing hormone levels, it is common to experience anxiety, so I offer a supportive environment in which to share any details you wish of your peri/menopause journey in total confidence, fully relax, and experience the benefits of reflexology, which may include improved sleep, mood, reduced tension, and a general sense of wellbeing. Whether you are using HRT or not, reflexology is a wonderfully relaxing experience to support you at this stage in your life.

In addition to professional support through Reflexology I also have personal experience of this part of life, which enhances my understanding and empathy! 

Treatments designed to support anyone going through the peri/menopause are available to book online. Due to the complex nature of the the effects of peri/menopause the treatments are 75 minutes or 90 minutes. If however you would prefer a 60 minutes session for cost or time saving, you can just book a standard 60 minute Reflexology session. Regular session are recommended for optimal results as you continue through the menopausal period.

In addition to any medical support you are receiving you may wish to consider the following 5 'pillars' of menopause to help optimise your approach:

• Nutrition 
• Exercise
• Relaxation
• Sleep
• Finding purpose and enjoyment in life 

• A 2011 study by Cagnacci et al noted that 'Chronically elevated cortisol* increases the likehood of severe menopausal symptoms'. Ref: Cagnacci A, Cannoletta M, Caretto S, et al. Increased cortisol level: a possible link between climacteric symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors. Menopause 2011;18:273–8. doi:10.1097/gme.0b013e3181f31947  

• A 2012 study of reflexology in 100 postmenopausal women, by Maryam Asltoghiri and Zahra Ghodsi showed statistically significant improvements in sleep and hot flushes. Ref: The effects of reflexology on sleep disorder in menopausal women. Maryam Asltoghiri, Zahra Ghodsi. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, Volume 31, 2012, Pages 242-246.

• A 2016 study concluded that reflexology might be effective in decreasing vasomotor problems and increasing quality of life in women in the menopausal period. Ref:The effect of foot reflexology applied to women aged between 40 and 60 on vasomotor complaints and quality of life. Gozuyesil E, Baser M. Complement The Clin Pract. 2016 Aug;24:78-85.                              

*Cortisol is a stress hormone created by the body during stressful situations.