Boosting our immune systems as we get back to social interactions
It’s great news that we can finally start looking forward to a return to social situations and all the normal human interactions that we’ve missed so much. Understandably there will be some nervousness about this returning freedom as Covid has not yet been completely eradicated and indeed may never be.
So what extra preventative care can we take to strengthen our own immune systems and boost our body’s natural defence mechanisms? Eating properly, making sure we drink plenty of water, getting enough sleep and avoiding stress as much as we can are all a good starting point.
There are also great health benefits to incorporating natural therapies to boost our immune systems. Specifically, the network of tissues, organs and cells that work together and are our body’s first line of defence against colds, flus, infections and viruses include the thymus, spleen, bone marrow and lymphatic system.
During a Reflexology treatment, all of these organs and systems are stimulated through the corresponding reflexes on the feet, the lymphatic system and the circulatory systems are boosted and the process of restoring balance throughout the body means that our own defence systems can work at optimal levels.
The added bonus of Reflexology treatment is the deep state of relaxation that is reached during the treatment which in itself, over a number of sessions, can reduce overall stress levels and help promote the production of endorphins or feel-good hormones, both factors that contribute to a stronger immune system.
So not only is Reflexology a great way to give ourselves some much needed self-care and time out, with regular treatments we can also give our natural defence systems a much-needed boost – enjoyable and useful!
Can Reflexology help with the symptoms of Long Covid?
Although there is still much to be learned about Long Covid and symptoms seem to vary quite a lot from person to person, some research data is now available from the World Health Organisation which offers the following information:
“At present there is no specific medication therapy for post Covid-19 condition (long covid). However, there is data suggesting that holistic care, including rehabilitation, can be helpful. We are continuing to learn why some people develop this condition, the mechanisms behind the development of post Covid-19 condition and how to best manage it.”
The list of most common symptoms of Long Covid published by the World Health Organisation include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Memory/concentration problems
- Sleep problems
- Muscle aches
- Depression or anxiety
There are many more symptoms that are being added by medical authorities world wide as research continues but what is interesting from a reflexologist’s point of view is that the symptoms listed above have shown great response to reflexology treatments for many years when addressed as issues related to grief, menopause and stress.
Holistic care (as suggested above by WHO) is an integrated approach that focuses on a person’s wellness and not just their illness or condition- which means support that considers their physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. Holistic care incorporates complementary therapies that focus on wellness and prevention, rather than just treating diseases. A study conducted by the Federation of Holistic Therapists in the UK (FHT) in 2019 found that the most popular holistic therapy is Reflexology, followed by Body Massage and then Aromatherapy.
Reflexology is a complementary therapy, not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Anyone experiencing symptoms of Long Covid should speak to their doctor first, before considering Reflexology, to make sure there is nothing more serious causing the symptoms that needs further medical investigation or treatment. Once your doctor agrees that symptoms may be helped by having Reflexology Treatment, then your Reflexology consultation will highlight what specific Long Covid problems can be addressed, whether it’s insomnia, headaches, muscle aches, anxiety, fatigue or something else.
As more research produces more answers, Holistic Therapies will undoubtedly play a part. Hopefully it won’t be long until there is a recognised protocol to get sufferers of Long Covid back to full health in as short a time as possible. As a Reflexologist I will continue to follow all the guidance offered by my governing body and by the HSE and I will update clients as the information becomes available.
Step by Step Reflexology 