Reflexology for Migraines

reflexology massageWhile it’s safe to say that everyone experiences the occasional headache, more than 10 percent of the world’s population suffers from debilitating migraines. It’s not just pain that’s felt when these migraines occur, but also symptoms such as nausea, lightheadedness, and sensitivity to light. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, more than 90 percent of sufferers experience these migraines so severely that they’re unable to function normally during an attack.

Traditional treatment for migraines involves both over-the-counter pain relievers and heavier prescription drugs. But for those looking for a more holistic approach, reflexology for migraines may be able to bring immediate migraine relief.

For many, applying pressure to specific areas of the feet can release blocked energy and encourage the corresponding organs to begin functioning as they could. While there are several points along the feet that can serve to relieve these symptoms, the primary one is known as Tai Chong. This is especially important because it runs along the meridian of the liver, which is key of ensuring that energy is running smoothly through the body.

One study, conducted as far back as 1995 by the National Board of Health Council in Denmark, found that 16 percent of people who underwent reflexology were completely cured three months after treatment. Of those who weren’t completely cured, 65 percent reported a significant decrease in symptoms. Another trial out of Denmark studied migraine sufferers who’d been ineffectively treated with morphine, ketogan, and albergin. Each of these participants received an average of 12 reflexology treatments. While 10 percent reported feeling just slightly better, 75 percent said they either felt significant improvement or they no longer suffered from migraines at all.

For those looking to see if foot reflexology may alleviate their migraines, focus on the Tai Chong point on the top of the foot, in the webbing between the big and second toes. If you’re experience migraine symptoms on both sides of your head, this can be done on both of the feet. If you’re only feeling symptoms on one side of your head, focus on the foot that’s on the opposite side of your body. Feel for where the bones of those two toes intersect. Slide and press your thumb into the depression between those bones, holding for about a minute.

The Tai Chong pressure point can be very powerful. For this reason, it’s not advised for those who are pregnant, unless under observation. If you’re interested in learning more about reflexology, or to have a treatment plan designed specifically for your needs, schedule an appointment with a licensed therapist today.

4 Steps to a Better Night’s Sleep

According to Sleep Disorders and Sleep Deprivation, an estimated 50 to 70 million U.S. adults chronically suffer from sleep problems, which can negatively affect health over a period of time. As explained in the book, “the cumulative long-term effects of sleep loss and sleep disorders have been associated with a wide range of deleterious health consequences including an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, depression, heart attack, and stroke.”

Despite the risk of side effects and dependence, Americans are still spending roughly $100 million dollars a year on over-the-counter sleep medications. While these may provide temporary relief, these are not intended for long-term use. In fact, Dr. Meir Kryger, a professor of sleep medicine at Yale, warns against using anything that isn’t addressing the cause of the problem. “I’d say 99 percent of the products being sold for sleep enhancement are a waste of money.” Instead, he recommends ways to improve your sleep by optimizing your environment and relaxation.

If you’ve been struggling to get at least seven hours a night, don’t go straight to the pills. Try these four steps leading up to tucking yourself into bed.

2 Hours Before: Lower Lights
Bright lights trigger our brains to be alert, while lower levels signal the sleep hormone melatonin. Dim the lights around your home roughly two hours before bedtime. If you plan to read, use a low-wattage light bulb. At around an hour before, turn off all electronics, which emit blue light that harms healthy sleep.

1 Hour Before: Wind Down
It’s impossible to go from 60 to 0 without slowing down in between. The same goes for your sleep. Set yourself up for a good night’s rest by winding down an hour before bed. Spend 20 minutes prepping for the next day (packing your lunch, selecting an outfit, etc.), 20 minutes taking care of personal hygiene, and finally 20 minutes of relaxation in bed.

30 Minutes Before: White Noise
It’s important to drown out outside noise, but you don’t want your bedroom to be so quiet that any tiny sound will wake you in the night. This is where white noise comes in. Before settling into bed, turn on a fan or an air conditioner. These come with the added bonus of being able to help regulate the temperature of the room, which should be between 65° and 75°F.

20 Minutes Before: Breathing and Meditation
One of the most effective ways to fall asleep quickly is to focus on deep breathing. This reduces heart rate and blood pressure, priming the body for sleep. After turning off all the lights, lie down in bed. Place your hands on the lower part of your stomach. Breathe in deeply for five seconds, hold for three, and exhale for five. Do this between 10 and 15 times, concentrating on the up-and-down movement of your hands. This 20 minutes is also a good time for mindful meditation. Focus on the different aspects of your life, making sure to look at just one thing at a time. Give each issue the attention its needs, then let it go.

If you’re still struggling with a sleep disorder, acupuncture may be another solution. Learn more about how the treatment can help.