Reflexology and its relationship with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
Anyone who suffers from a chronic disorder or disease will know the frustration that comes with working out how to relieve symptoms and pain to make your day to day life bearable. Take note on the word ‘bearable’ and not ‘better’, because that is what it all comes down to, how can I make it easier to get up in the morning and do the tasks that need to be done and would normally be done without a thought by those who don’t suffer from a debilitating disorder.
People I know with ME or Fibromyalgia all tell me that everyone has different symptoms and what works for one person may not work for another. In my opinion, I would rather try EVERYTHING suggested and see what brings the most relief.
So, this brings me to my passion in life……Reflexology. How can Reflexology help to soothe those everyday symptoms?
Depending on the research you look at and buy in to, will depend on where you believe the problem comes from. The nervous system, lymph glands, immune system, neurological pathways have all been bounded around in the medical world when it comes to these disorders. Luckily, reflexology can work with most of these areas so whatever the research, Reflexology should be at the top of your ‘To Try List’.
As a Reflexologist, I would pinpoint areas to treat on your hands and feet that are connected to your glands and organs and massage them. The Lymph glands help drain toxins from the body and some medical professionals believe the cause of extreme fatigue and muscle weakness can be caused by a build-up of toxins that are not fully flushed and drained by the body in ME and Fibromyalgia suffers. As Reflexology also stimulates blood flow it will also help relieve pain and discomfort, another symptom that ranks high in sufferers.
In my opinion, I think the overall well-being you gain from reflexology treatments will play a key role in the treatment of Chronic disorders. Being able to relax and manage stress is a big part of it and getting rid of tension across the whole body must be beneficial when it comes to getting yourself ready for the day in mind, body and soul. Anxiety is also another symptom that seems to come hand in hand with Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia. Taking the time to fit in sessions where you get to relax and reflect whilst having treatments to ease other symptoms seems like a no brainer to me!
Whether you come to me for reflexology or attend one of my workshops that will show you the basic skills that you can do at home yourself, it will be well worth in the end if it makes your day to day life more bearable.