Did you know that your nervous system influences nearly every function in your body? People tend to focus on symptoms, not the nervous system. But when it is overwhelmed, your body feels it!
Learn how reflexology, an ancient healing practice with modern-day benefits, may help support a calmer, more balanced nervous system.
Reflexology is a holistic therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet (also the hands and ears). These points correspond to different organs and systems in the body. Many people seek reflexology to reduce stress, promote relaxation and support overall well-being.
It is part of the peripheral nervous system and serves as a communication pathway between the brain and the body, regulating many functions that occur automatically.
The Autonomic Nervous System works with the brain and the spinal cord to control functions that we don’t consciously think about. It is continuously sending messages between the brain and the rest of the body. These are automatic functions, such as breathing, heart rate, digestion and temperature regulation.
Sympathetic Nervous System puts us in survival mode; you may know it as Fight or Flight. It’s designed to protect us from danger. It releases stress hormones, increases heart rate and alertness. It’s useful in emergency situations.
The Parasympathetic System is the body’s recovery mode; also known as Rest & Digest. It supports healing, repairs during injury or illness, promotes digestion, encourages relaxation and allows for deeper sleep.
Both are necessary, but as with everything, we need to have balance. In today’s world, we are overscheduled and overstimulated (think that cell phone that we are so attached to), with work and family responsibilities, financial stress and little down time. We are connected ALL THE TIME.
The goal isn’t to eliminate stress, as we need our fight or flight response when facing challenges. The key is finding the flexibility to move into stress mode when needed and then return to a state of rest and recovery.
Signs Your Nervous System May Need Some Extra Support
Many of us struggle with one or more of these symptoms. What are you doing to support yourself in seasons of stress?
Chronic stress can affect the whole body. Recovering from an injury, an illness or medical procedure becomes more difficult. Those little stresses that used to seem like no big deal now feel like huge problems. Your sleep suffers. Energy decreases. Your body struggles to find balance.
By supporting the nervous system, you begin to feel safe. Breathing slows, muscles soften, digestion improves, sleep comes more easily. You feel calmer, more focused, and able to cope with daily stress.
It creates a dedicated time for you to slow down, encourages relaxation, and supports the body’s natural healing processes. Many people experience a deep sense of relaxation during reflexology, which may help support the body’s transition away from a stress response.
Many clients report sleeping better, reduced stress and anxiety, a greater sense of calm and balance.
“I left feeling stress-free and completely relaxed. I slept like a baby and woke up feeling rested and ready for the day.”
“My first experience was incredibly beneficial; I felt relaxed, had decreased anxiety and mental clarity for days afterward.”
“Thank you for helping me rebalance my body and my mind!”
Your nervous system affects nearly every aspect of your health and well-being. Reflexology may sound like a luxury, but taking time to care for yourself is not. What if the most productive thing we can do for our body is give it the opportunity to slow down and reset? In a world that rarely slows down, giving your body dedicated time to rest and reset can make a meaningful difference in how you feel each day.
Sharon Tower is an American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) certified licensed reflexologist at the NH Health & Wellness Center. She has completed advanced reflexology training in lymphatic drainage and emotional release techniques, equipping her with specialized skills to address physical and emotional needs.
Her mission is to help her clients achieve more balance and peace, reduce pain and stress levels, and support the body’s natural healing ability with personalized reflexology sessions. You can book with Sharon online, or reach her by calling or texting 603-234-5980.
