de-stressing – Elder Cottage Clinic, Warton, PR4

It is well known that people with diabetes need to look after their feet. In very basic terms, when the blood is not releasing the sugars into the cells of the body, the blood can get syrupy and thick, which means that it isn’t flowing smoothly and is not getting to the extremities as efficiently and as effectively as it should. Because of this, some of the smaller blood vessels become restricted and nerve endings can start to become damaged, causing peripheral neuropathy.

My first ever reflexology client I booked after qualifying was an elderly lady with type 2 diabetes. She was keen to have her feet touched and worked on because of the peripheral neuropathy she was experiencing. Her symptoms were numbness and tingling, making it difficult for her to walk and difficult to sleep. She found the treatments soothing, comforting and relaxing.

It is well known that reflexology can improve circulation within the body: the main contraindication for the treatment is thrombosis and clotting, simply because the improved flow of blood could cause the clot to move. With this in mind, it is a great treatment for diabetics.

Being diagnosed with any type of diabetes, but especially type 2 diabetes diagnosis in later life, can be very difficult to manage. A massive change in lifestyle, eating habits and general discipline around food choices, exercise, blood sugar monitoring and medication timings can be very stressful not just for those with diabetes but also the surrounding friends and family. This is where regular reflexology treatments can be so beneficial for so many of life’s illnesses and problems, because it is such a great stress-buster.

Regular reflexology will also optimize the condition and health of the skin of the feet and ankles. As diabetics will have restricted blood flow (particularly to the extremities), this can cause excessive dryness, making the skin fragile and thin, and causing serious problems if a wound occurs. Healing will take much longer and may lead to other complications such as infections and ulcers. Ensuring that the skin is thoroughly moisturized and nourished will be hugely beneficial in maintaining the overall health of the feet.

In addition to general reflexology, the specialized sequence of Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) may also be a good choice to make in a multi-faceted approach to managing diabetes. Diabetes causes the lymph vessels to become weak and too permeable, compromising the flow of lymph and thus the immune system.[1] We know that it is likely that the RLD sequence has a causal effect on the lymphatic system through studies conducted and results published around managing breast cancer related lymphoedema.[2] Of course more research is needed to present evidence, but I wholeheartedly believe in the modality of reflexology and the powerful effect it can have on the mind and body.

If you need further support in managing your diabetes take a look at my colleague The Diabetes Lady for online coaching and individualised advice.

Book in for reflexology today.

[1] http://revistaseletronicas.pucrs.br/ojs/index.php/scientiamedica/article/view/10095

[2] http://www.reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk/abstract-2016.html

Jackie Marsden is a Reflexologist, Acupuncturist and Foot Reading Practitioner, based at Elder Cottage Clinic, Warton, Preston, PR4. She is a full member of the Association of Reflexologists.

Approximately 2 million people in the UK suffer with seasonal allergies.

Generally speaking, early symptoms are caused by tree pollen, and later symptoms are caused by grasses and weeds. This is known as seasonal allergic rhinitis (or more commonly referred to as hay fever).

Symptoms that continue all year are called perennial allergic rhinitis and commonly relate to indoor allergens, such as house dust mites, pets and indoor molds.

In response to exposure of an allergen (e.g. pollen) the body’s immune system overreacts and releases chemicals (histamines) which cause inflammation. Histamines work quickly, causing sneezing, itching and runny nose. The eyes may also be affected, with itching, redness and watering (allergic conjunctivitis).

Other chemicals released during this overreaction can cause a blocked or stuffy nose and sinuses, which may lead to headache and difficulty sleeping.

Rhinitis is often regarded as a trivial problem but studies have shown that it severely affects people’s quality of life. It disturbs sleep, impairs daytime concentration and the ability to carry out tasks, causes people to miss work or school, and has been shown to affect children’s school exam results. (Source Allergy UK).

Treatments that suppress the symptoms of rhinitis or hay fever are antihistamines.

Quercetin is a natural anti-histamine i.e. it is known to inhibit the manufacture and release of histamine. It is also high in antioxidants.

Quercetin is an flavonoid (plant pigment) commonly found in fruits and vegetables, especially onions, citrus, and apples.
Since over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines can have side effects like drowsiness, seizures and dry mouth, a natural option is a good choice.
Use with Vitamin C for an optimal effect.

Zinc also helps with hayfever. Zinc reduces histamine levels and will enhance Quercetin.

If you suffer with regular colds/infections – you could well be deficient in zinc. Zinc will reduce a cold by up to 7 days, because it is toxic to viruses.
Zinc is amazing for skin – crucial skin healing and repair, acne, blemishes etc. balances sebum.
Zinc balances the reproductive organs so it’s a great choice for couples wanting to conceive. Great for bones and nails.
NYROrganic Super Antioxidant Boost is a great synergistically blended choice. No fillers.

Any of the White tea range will be hugely antioxidant so great for any allergies/hay fever.

White tea facial mist – lovely and refreshing, and cooling for the face. Use as a toner and as a facial spritz throughout the day over make-up.
White tea toning eye gel. Again this contains the Eyebright herb for reducing inflammation around the mucus membranes, more specifically the eye area here. Keep in the fridge for that extra cooling effect.
Reviving white tea face mask – the kaolin clay cools and calms the skin.

OTHER TOP TIPS:

Apply the bee lovely lip balm around nostrils to prevent the pollen/allergens from entering the nasal cavity.
Some people with an allergy to pollens (especially tree pollens) may be affected by cross-reactions between their pollen allergy and certain foods. For example, they may find that when eating certain fruits, vegetables or tree nuts, especially raw, they get an itchy mouth or throat.
Keep windows closed when indoors. This is most important in the early mornings, when pollen is being released, and in the evening when the air cools and pollens that have been carried up into the air begin to fall to ground level again.
On high pollen days, shower and wash your hair after arriving home and change your clothing.
Avoid drying washing on a clothes-line outside when pollen counts are high.
Wear wraparound sunglasses when outdoors to keep pollen allergens out of your eyes.
Start taking a spoon full of locally sourced honey every day as early in the year as possible to build up immunity/resilience. (Source Allergy UK)
Get some reflexology. Reflexology Lymph Drainage has helped others manage rhinitis.
Acupuncture is effective in clearing heat and modulating the immune system.

Jackie Marsden MAR is a qualified reflexologist, promoter of healthy living and independent consultant (Team Leader) for Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic. Jackie leads and mentors a growing team of consultants (many of whom are therapists integrating organic products into their existing businesses) via the NYRO social selling channel, holding regular team meetings, one-to-one coaching via phone and facetime, and a closed facebook group. All views are my own.

Tag: de-stressing

Reflexology for Diabetics

Coping with Seasonal Allergies