Hand Reflexology for headaches and migraine relief- Golden Egg Holistic

Golden Egg Holistic Portlaoise Reflexology

Reflexology is all about bringing balance, harmony and a sense of well-being to the body. Even a light reflexology treatment can help create this balance. Many research papers have been written on reflexology. One such recent research study carried out in Denmark tested the effectiveness of treating headaches and migraines with reflexology had very positive results.

The study was carried out by the Department of Social Pharmacy and the Royal Danish University of Pharmacy 220 clients at the School of Pharmacy with headaches were given foot reflexology session. After 3 months, 16% were cured, 65% stated that reflexology was helpful, 19% stopped taking medicine and18% stated their headaches were unchanged. The study concluded that Reflexology is able to cure or help both tension headaches and migraines.

One of my favourite aspects to Reflexology as a therapy, apart from giving a Reflexology treatment, is showing clients some very basic hand reflexology self treatment techniques which they can use on themselves in between foot reflexology treatments. Hand reflexology is perfect for self -treatment. A simple 5 minute technique is easy to fit into your daily routine. Self -treatment can be empowering, and a great tool for people to help themselves. People have begun to take control of their own their own health and wellbeing. They want to know how their bodies work. They are becoming more in touch with their bodies and more aware of how stress, lifestyle, diet and outside influences are affecting their health and well being. It is no longer acceptable for a doctor to hand out prescriptions to a patient and send them home. More and more people want to know what’s in the medicine they are taking. What are the side effects? Is there another option apart from taking this medication? Is there any way I can take my health into my own hands and make a difference myself without always relying on medical intervention? With a therapy such a reflexology, that’s exactly what people can do.

I am not claiming reflexology can cure cancer or rid the world of AIDS but I do know that teaching a person a simple 5 minute self -treatment technique which is specific to their needs , will help to relax and calm the body and mind, helping to reduce stress. stress, as we are all too aware, accounts for up to 75% of illnesses. So what’s to lose? It’s free, simple and only takes 5 minutes. Here is one such self -treatment technique which I show to clients who are suffering with headaches or migraine. For someone who suffers from regular headaches or migraines, this will work particularly well if you can begin the technique as you feel the migraine or headache coming on. Self -treatment techniques are not designed to take the place of a Reflexology treatment by a qualified Reflexologist, but they can certainly help.

Neck & Spinal Reflexes

One of my favourite reflexes to work on. It is essential to work for  for any ailment.  The spinal reflex runs from the base of the nail bed, all the way down the outside of the thumb as far as the wrist. Thumb walk along this reflex (or simply massage) as shown. Repeat several times on both hands.

 

Brain/Head Reflex

This is the directly affected area when suffering with a migraine or headache. Apply pressure and massage the top of each finger, including the nail bed of each finger, and thumb. Repeat this on both hands for several minutes or for as long as is comfortable. For someone suffering with blocked or painful sinus, continue the massage the length of all the fingers.

 

Liver

Our liver is constantly working to filter the toxins we are exposed to everyday. Working this reflex will give the organ a helping hand to expel these toxins. Sometimes migraines and headaches can be as a result of toxins in our system.
 

 

Pituitary Gland

The Pituitary is considered the “master gland” of the endocrine system. Its job is to keep our hormone levels balanced. It is also a good point to work for pain relief. The pineal gland is triggered here also, which releases melatonin, which in turn helps to regulate sleep cycles. Sleep is essential for health and wellbeing. Better quality sleep can help prevent headaches.

 

Solar Plexus

Another favourite reflex to work on for me. It is a lovely reflex to finish your  self-treatment on. The solar plexus represents that group of nerves that meet behind the stomach where we feel emotions such as nervousness and excitement. It is sometimes known as the ‘abdominal brain’. It is also a great reflex to work on its own for calming the mind, body and spirit.

Finish your treatment by drinking at least 2 glasses of water. This will help your system to flush out toxins.  And relax. You should find that this technique will help to calm and soothe both body and mind. 

About the author: 


Catriona Plunkett is a qualified reflexologist specializing in Maternity Reflexology, Baby Reflexology, and Fertility Reflexology. She runs a practice at Golden Egg Holistic, Portlaoise, Co Laois. To find out more information on available therapies, upcoming courses and workshops at Golden Egg Holistics, please contact Catriona on 0876011797, or [email protected]

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