Poor memory, continual fatigue and mood swings are common to women experiencing pre-menstrual syndrome and also in overworked men and women. These symptoms occur with the malfunction of the adrenal glands producing the hormone adrenaline. Adrenaline works with the nervous system and performs other vital functions that go into metabolism. When adrenaline goes out of balance in our body, we may experience the symptoms of poor memory, tiredness, a craving for sweets and go through mood swings. At times medications such as steroid-based drugs also throw the adrenal glands out of equilibrium.
A few sessions in reflexology along with body massage can work wonders towards managing these conditions. Reflexology therapy will involve the use of some oils for foot massage. Here is what you can expect during a reflexology session to address these symptoms:
Essential oil mix that may be used during treatment*:
• Option A:
Carrier Oil - 2 ounces of safflower oil
Top Note Oil – 2 drops of basil oil (caution--this is not to be used on sensitive skin and during pregnancy)
Middle Note Oil – 2 drops of chamomile oil (caution--do not use during pregnancy)
Base Note Oil – 2 drops of cedarwood oil (caution--do not use on sensitive skin and during pregnancy)
• Option B:
Carrier Oil - 2 ounces of safflower oil
Top Note Oil – 2 drops of thyme oil (caution--do not use during pregnancy, lactation, on heart patients or those with migraines)
Middle Note Oil – 2 drops of juniper oil
Base Note Oil – 2 drops of neroli oil
• Option C:
Carrier Oil - 2 ounces of safflower oil
Top Note Oil – 2 drops of clarysage oil (caution--do not use during pregnancy and when driving)
Middle Note Oil – 2 drops of lavender oil (caution--do not use during pregnancy and on patients with psoriasis. It should also be avoided by those with low blood pressure)
Base Note Oil – 2 drops of patchouli oil
Procedure:
1. The therapist will take up your left foot first with her right hands. The thumb of the left hand will be in an upright position so that it is placed on the reflex area of the left kidney.
2. Now you will notice that that the therapist will move the thumb up just a little towards the toes and slightly to the inside edge of the foot to be placed on the reflex of the left adrenal gland.
3. With their thumb still in the vertical position, she will press in with the top edge of thumb (thumb pad).
4. The technique of pressing will involve pressing in and pulling downward a little with the thumb. This will be done 6-7 times.
5. The reflexologist will take care that the reflex of the adrenal gland, which is a very small area and is located atop the kidney reflex, will not also involve moving or pressing the kidney reflex.
*Please note that only therapeutic grade oils should be used for therapy. All essential and carrier oils can start an allergic reaction on sensitive skin and most of the oils should not be used during pregnancy. Some oils are harmful to conditions of epilepsy, etc. Do not use any oil that has an aroma you are uncomfortable with. Consult your aromatherapist or holistic health therapist before using any oil.
Benefits, side-effects, prior preparations, costs, duration of procedure, recovery and resumption of daily activities as well as support issues should be discussed with your therapist for each type of treatment option before starting on your treatment.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co.), the upcoming Mentor Your Mind (Publisher: Sterling Publishers) and An Urban Woman's Integrated Fitness Guide (Publishers: Hay House). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com. Visit www.mamtasingh.com