Sunday, October 7, 2012

Reflexology for Fall Allergies

It's Fall! In this reflexologist/writer's humble opinion, the most beautiful season of the year. Many of  you would agree. It's also a season of sneezing, dripping sinuses, itchy eyes, stuffy nose, etc, due to seasonal allergies. Sure does put a damper on enjoying the beautiful sunny and crisp autumn days. What triggers these Fall allergies and where do you turn for relief?

While many medications are available to treat the symptoms of allergy challenges, the root cause of those symptoms are not addressed by the meds.

 Web MD says the following about those root causes and triggers of Fall allergies:
Male plants release tiny cells called pollen into the air in order to reproduce. When these pollen or other allergy triggers get into the noses of certain people, their immune system mistakenly sees them as foreign invaders and releases antibodies -- substances that normally identify and go after bacteria, viruses, and other illness-causing organisms. The antibodies attack the allergens, which leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood. Histamines trigger the runny nose, itchy eyes, and other symptoms of allergies.
Dust mites and mold spores are also mentioned as seasonal culprits and have the same effects.

May well be your reflexologist is just the place to turn for relief from your challenges. Therapeutic reflexology addresses these root causes as it works to bring all systems of the body into better harmony, while assisting the cleansing of toxins from the body. Besides the seemingly obvious reflexes of the sinuses themselves, your reflexologist will know other key reflex areas on the feet and hands where extra focus is indicated, including the lymphatic system to help with the removal of the histamines/toxins from your body. The reflexologist who also has knowledge of the use of essential oils may include these to further encourage the body's recovery.

Seasonal allergies are a major challenge in the Memphis, TN, area where I am located. Within my own practice (Footsteps In Eden Reflexology)  it is most common to hear clients (who often have not even mentioned their clogged sinuses or itchy eyes) comment on the relief they are suddenly feeling with their breathing or calming of sinus irritation during a session. The testimonial evidence I see in  my practice every day for allergy symptoms and relief of so many other health challenges as well, remind me over and over of the miraculous way in which God created our bodies. It is always amazing how -- while He certainly is able to act on His own without help -- He uses skilled and caring, gentle touch to enhance the body's ability to return to a state of harmony and wellness.

For those who may not be blessed to have access to a professional reflexologist, and for those who would like to assist themselves with sinus symptoms even more between sessions with their reflexologist, there are some simple self-help things you may do. Here is one from Livestong's website:
Hand reflexology can be an effective self-help method for alleviating allergy symptoms. Clear your sinuses by applying gentle pressure to the tips of your fingers just below the nail. Hold each finger for a few seconds until you begin to feel relief.

Above photo from: multi-mediastock website.