Not long ago I came across an article about circadian rhythm, which is described as a natural internal process that follows a 24-hour cycle in our body. This cycle controls everything from sleep, digestion, appetite, and immunity. For instance, outside light, time of the day we eat, physical activity are all factors that keep the circadian rhythm in sync. A lot of small things can affect this normal cycle of things such as staying up too late at night, or even eating different times than our normal eating habit is. These can all knock out our internal balance.
Any disruption that breaks this cycle could link to mental health disorders, cancer, and Alzheimer. In fact, this article is investigating patients with Alzheimer’s disease linked to circadian rhythm that regulates our sleep cycle. If you are interested to read about it further, find the link in the ‘Sources’ section below.
However, in my ‘article’ I would like to provide information on how reflexology contributes to a restful sleep – your circadian rhythm. A good night's sleep is important to support your brain’s healthy functioning and physical health, as well as improving your mood. Most importantly, reflexology resets your normal circadian rhythms by stimulating the reflexes in a natural way that relaxes the body and mind, and unblocks neural pathways, bringing overall harmony together in the body. And of course, normalise your sleeping patterns to get a good night's sleep.
During a reflexology treatment, specific reflexes are focused on the feet, improving lymph, nerve and blood circulation. The glands are the best area to treat for regulating a natural sleep cycle. These are pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands. The pituitary gland is the one that regulates your circadian rhythm, your sleep-wake cycle because it is the centre for your body hormones. Metabolism will be regulated by stimulating your thyroid glands. Regulating your blood sugar and most of all supporting your nervous system is where the adrenal glands are in the focus.
Why would you need regular, restful sleep?
The body releases growth hormones that fix damaged tissues such as the skin.
A good sleep reduces stress hormones.
Adjusts hormones that control appetite.
Boosts the immune system.
A restful sleep also helps in memory recall and mental alertness.
And what happens when your sleep is irregular and/or disturbed?
Catching colds and illnesses easier, due to the immune system down.
Affects the nervous system, leading to lethargy and irritability.
Can also lead to weight gain.
What is recommended?
Try to set your own sleep schedule that works best for you daily.
Stay active during the day.
Avoid or limit naps during the day, they can really interrupt your night-time sleep pattern.
Do not use electronic devices a minimum of an hour before bedtime but 2-3 hours more ideal.
Cut out or reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake and don’t use nicotine.
Do not eat large meals and beverages before bedtime. Not only your sleep gets disturbed but for digestion is not a good start to fall asleep right away.
Make your bedroom atmosphere relaxing and comfortable for sleeping.
When you’re not sleeping, get out of bed.
Any questions about reflexology supporting your sleeping pattern, please get in touch via my website (homepage ‘Get in touch’ button) or my contact details below.
Best
Klara
07912287453
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Sources
Alzheimer’s disease linked to circadian rhythm – new research in mice, The Conversation, Eleftheria Kodosaki, February 2022, https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-disease-linked-to-circadian-rhythm-new-research-in-mice-177090
How Reflexology can help with Sleep Problems, Calla Therapies, https://www.callatherapies.co.uk/how-reflexology-can-help-with-sleep-problems/
Insomnia and Sleep disorders, Feet First Reflexology,
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