“No, I feel great…now get out of my sight.”
One of the most widely studied uses of reflexology has been for relieving symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
Reflexology seems to lessen severe symptoms through relaxation and stimulation of endorphins. Reflexology can also help with the pain associated with cramping before and during menstruation.
Symptoms Include:
~ Mood Swings
~ Tension
~Irritability
~ Bloating
~ Headaches
Usually hormones are on the rampage, which can make a woman feel like she’s out of control.
Listed are suggested reflex points that have been shown to effectively support a woman’s body during this challenging time.
Please review the Foot Map Page to familiarize yourself with where these reflex points are located before beginning.
Reflex Points to Work
~ Pituitary Gland (to help with water retention and regulating hormones)
~Brain/Head (calms nerves and improves circulation)
~ Spine (calms the nerves and brings out Serotonin)
~ Ovaries (regulates hormones)
~ Uterus (to ease contractions)
~ Fallopian Tubes (relieves pain in pelvic area)
~ Chest/Breast (for tender breasts and to help lymphatic system)
*By using your thumb or index finger – gently press, rotate, then release on these reflex points.
*Work each point for approximately 2 minutes. Wait 30 minutes, then work the reflex points again.
*Continue this process until relief is felt.
* Be sure to work both feet.
*Reflexology is cumulative – therefore it takes a little time for the influence to manifest.
*Start using reflexology before you feel PMS coming on – to help assist your body at the onset.
Caution Care
~ When working the ovary and uterus points – always work for a shorter period of time (1 minute each). These two points can be very sensitive during PMS – so apply a gentle touch.
Aromatherapy for PMS
Clary Sage
The essential oil of Clary Sage is highly effective for relieving the symptoms associated with PMS. It regulates the nervous system and is most beneficial in assisting with anxiety, depression and stress.
It has a warm, nutty, herbaceous aroma.
Feet Treat
~ Use 3 drops of Clary Sage mixed with 1 teaspoonful of Jojoba or Grape Seed carrier oil.
~ Massage on both feet – concentrating on the reflex points associated with PMS.
~ Elevate feet for 10 minutes while deeply breathing in it’s aroma.
~ If doing so before bedtime, you can put on a pair of gym socks – as to not soil bed linens.
~ You can also carry the essential oil in your purse, so that periodically throughout the day, you can inhale it’s aroma directly from the bottle.
Caution Care
~ Clary Sage is higly potent – so it should be used sparingly.
~ Do not use while driving an automobile.
~ Do not use while drinking alcohol.
~ For external use only.
~ Prolonged inhalation may cause drowsiness.
~ Always use essential oils wisely and with respect.
Reflexology and Aromatherapy are such valuable natural tools – that can greatly assist with the symptoms that occur from PMS.
If you’ve never experienced these modalities, I strongly encourage you to investigate professional services offered in your area. Please visit the sidebar of this blog to Find a Practioner near you. And take some time to browse the various Pages for easy to read information on these modalities.
So if your feeling a little…Moody Blues…try some Reflexology and Aromatherapy.
Your PMS will LOVE you for it!
Be well
For pure essential oils and supplies: Hands-On Aromatherapy
Portions of this post gratefully supplied by: “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Reflexology – Frankie Avalon Wolfe, Ph.D.
Suggested reading: “My Beauty & My Beast – Mind, body and PMS”- Pauline Houle
Please visit: PMS and Women
Foot Notes 