The Body’s Orchestra Leader

 

The Pituitary Gland, also known as the “master gland” is considered the most important in the body - as it controls the functions of all the endocrine glands.

You can think of the pituitary gland as a powerful “conductor” of a large orchestra.

About the size and shape of a cherry, the pituitary gland is attached to the base of the brain.

Numerous hormones are produced by this gland - influencing growth, sexual development, metabolism, female menstrual cycle, mineral and sugar content of the blood, fluid retention, and energy levels. It maintains the efficiency of the various structures and prevents the excessive accumulation of fats.

 

Pituitary Gland Reflex Point Location

Traditionally, the pituitary reflex point on the feet is located on each big toe, where the “whorl” of the toe print converges into a central point. However, since each of us are unique, I find that the “exact” location requires a little searching. More often than not, this reflex point is found to be slightly off-center. Since the hormonal system is extremely sensitive and easily thrown off-balance, this reflex point is usually very tender.

Note: an effective way to find the exact location of the pituitary reflex point on your own feet; use the “eraser-end” of a pencil and firmly, yet gently, begin pressing into the center of your big toes. Gradually move the eraser slightly to the right and then the left of the point, as you continue pressing - you will eventually find the direct location. If sensitive, continue a constant contact with the point for approximately 1 minute - then release the pressure. Do this 3 times.

 

Because the pituitary gland hormonizes any imbalance within the body, this procedure will effectively relax and/or energize.

I quite often do this for myself right before bedtime - to help calm and relax my body. I also apply some pressure to this reflex point before getting out of bed in the morning - to help naturally “jump-start” my energy level.

Professionally, I will always begin and end my sessions with the pituitary gland reflex point (along with the solar plexus reflex point). It always seems to give the client what they need…when they need it.

So, begin to acquaint yourself with your body’s very own “orchestra leader”…the Pituitary Gland.

And create some healthy, balanced, and beautiful music together!

Be well, folks!

 

Portions of this post gratefully supplied by: “The Art of Reflexology” - Inge Dougans with Suzanne Ellis

Photo: Florenda 27

 

 

 

                                          

“Mirror, mirror on the feet”

 

Quite often when sharing reflexology with client for the first time, they will mention that they never realized how sore their feet were.

This is because foot tenderness doesn’t necessarily always come from foot issues, such as: standing on your feet all day; footwear; or podiatric concerns. Your feet may be in perfect shape, yet still be sore.

Sometimes the feet are sensitive, because they solely reflect the stress that is being held within the body.

Also too, I find that some people initially feel very little tenderness or response to the application of reflexology; however, as they continue to receive additional sessions, sensitivity becomes more obvious. This is because everyone’s stress level is different, and it may take a few times for the body to respond to the amount of stress it’s holding on to.

Everyone is unique in the way they react to reflexology. Some it’s instantaneous, others react slower.

It’s important to realize that reflexology is cumulative. This is why I will always recommend to a first time client, a series of sessions (usually 3 spread out over a period of 1 session per week). Eventually, once or twice a month is a good maintenance program.

Reflexology powerfully works to break up the stress pattern that the body is experiencing. You may not even be aware of this stress, because ironically, high levels of stress become almost “second nature” to most of us. The body does an effective job of taking care of itself; however, eventually it needs some support - and this is where reflexology comes into play.

Nothing replaces the application of a full professional session; however, I do believe that we can all help ourselves through this modality. Applying reflexology to yourself in between sessions, gives you a wonderful opportunity to get in touch with your own body. Also, when you work on yourself, if a reflex point is tender, you’re more aware of how much pressure to apply.

Self-Reflexology Recommendation

*Try rubbing and pressing on your feet everyday. I know this may sound time consuming, but I assure you, that you can always fit it in during times when you’re actually doing other things.

*While on your computer.

*While watching T.V.

*While on the phone.

*While at your work desk.

*Just before getting into bed.

*Before getting out of bed in the morning.

Note: Even just a short amount of reflexology is better than none.

*If you should find a tender spot, firmly, but gently continue to apply pressure until sensitivity dissapates.

 

Remember, like a mirror…the feet actually do reflect the human body.

So take sometime and look into the mirror of your soles!

Be well

 

*Please refer to the Foot Map Page to familiarize yourself with the reflex points.

*To find a professional practitioner in your area, please refer to the Find a Practitioner link on the sidebar.

Photo: iandh

 

 

                                         

AACHOOO!@*#

 

Now that the Fall and Winter are upon us, it’s quite common to experience an occasional cold.

Reflexology can work wonders for relieving much of the physical discomforts, and also help support immunity - so that the body can naturally move into wellness.

 

Reflex Points of Focus

Head/Sinuses

*To help decongest the head and sinuses.

Lungs/Bronchial Tubes

*To help break up congestion

Spleen

*To help with immunity

Thymus

*To help with immunity

(the thymus reflex point is located on the inside portion of both feet, about 1 inch below the neck reflex point)

 

*Note: Please refer to the Foot Map Page to get a clear view of where these reflex points are located.

 

Application of Reflexology

*Using either your thumb or index finger - firmly, but gently press and rotate on each of the reflex points.

*Work each point thoroughly for approximately 1 minute - then repeat the process 2 more times.

*This can be done 3 times a day.

*Note: Reflexology effectively breaks up congestion in the head and lungs; so don’t be alarmed if after the first application, your cold symptoms seem worse. It’s simply doing some “house cleaning.” These symptoms will normalize.

 

Aromatherapy

The use of essential oils along with reflexology is very beneficial in supporting the body’s natural immunity.

 

Eucalyptus

The essential oil of Eucalyptus is effective against coughs and colds, both as preventative and as a remedy. Externally it works as a decongestant, expectorant, and is excellent for the immune system.

 

Aromatherapy Application

*After completely reflexology - blend 3 drops of eucalyptus oil to 1 teasoon of Jojoba oil.

*Apply a small amount to both feet and rub in well.

*Breath deeply as you do this, to receive the benefits of this wonderful essential oil.

*Cover you feet with a pair of gym socks and allow the mixture to penetrate the skin.

 

Caution Care

~Use only pure essential oils.

~For external use only.

~Keep essential oils away from eyes.

~Never use essential oils on the skin without first diluting with a carrier oil.

 

So if the “cold bug” gets you down…have no fear…Reflexology and Aromatherapy are here!

When used with care and respect, these two modalities will help your body, help itself…naturally.

Wishing you a cold-free season…aaaaachooo!#?*

Bless you!

 

For pure essential oils and supplies: Hands-On Aromatherapy

 

 Photos: Marc 50 & Snowing Indoors

 

 

                             

Having this past month off from blogging, gave me the opportunity to investigate new publications on reflexology.

I’ve got to tell you folks, I was so impressed with this recently published reflexology reference book by Barbara & Kevin Kunz, that I felt the need to share it with you.

I own several of their other publications; however, the beauty of this particular book, is the fact that it’s like an encyclopedia of most of their works combined.

Not only does it contain information on foot reflexology, but also hand reflexology as well.

It blew my away!

The illustrations and information are clear, precise, and easy to understand.

Not only is it beneficial for the novice, but also the professional as well.

It definately taught me a plethora of some new knowledge!

 

Book Highlights

*The principles and techniques of reflexology

*Self-help sessions and treatments for any stage of life

*Effective ways to treat health concerns

*Treatments for personal and professional use

*The use of self-help foot tools

*Proper foot care

*Teaches you how to easily incorporate reflexology into your daily life.

 

As a professional…I highly recommend investigating this book.

You can either purchase it at your local bookstore, or you can visit Barbara & Kevin; where they can direct you on how to order it online.

It’s one of those books you’ll be able to use for the rest of your life!

So enjoy it…and be well.