Hormone Balance

by Sarah Forristal

Hormones are messengers that travel through our bloodstream to different organs and tissues. On a daily basis they control much of what we feel and they coordinate the body's metabolism, energy level, reproduction and growth, sleep and fluid balance. They change and fluctuate throughout our lives and play a major part in our sleep/wake cycle, monthly menstrual cycle and through the different life phases. They have an affect on brain neurotransmitters which influence mood and emotions. They influence blood sugar levels and our weight. They direct processes in our body so that things run smoothly and natural rhythms stay in sync.  I have heard them being described as our 'inner compass' and I think that is a lovely description.

How do we feel if our hormones are out of balance?
We may have mood swings, have heavy or painful periods, irregular periods, fatigue, difficulty losing weight, anxiety, trouble sleeping, digestive issues, skin breakouts.

What Causes Hormone Imbalance?
Hormones are constantly interacting with our environment, both inner and outer. They respond to sunlight and darkness, how we sleep/relax, our stress levels, our gut bacteria, what we eat, how we exercise, and the life stage that we are in.
​Therefore, when thinking about supporting our hormone health it is important to think of the wider picture.
Here are a few things to check in on:
What are my stress levels throughout the day?
Am I regularly getting good quality sleep?
Is my digestive system working well? 
Am I supporting natural rhythms/cycles e.g sleep/wake cycle, menstrual cycle, seasonal cycles etc.
Do I experience low energy during the day?
How do I manage stress?

How can massage and reflexology help?
​Both massage and reflexology calm and relax the body. They both have a significant influence on the nervous system, switching on the parasympathetic nervous system which supports relaxation, digestion, blood sugar balance, stress reduction, pain relief and repair. This in turn helps to support hormone balance.
Reflexology works on reflex points on the feet which correspond to different parts of the body. As a result the hormonal system can be supported and specific attention can be given where needed. People experience hormonal imbalance in different ways so each treatment is client specific. Some come to support fertility or to regulate their menstrual cycle, others for digestive support and stress relief.

If you would like to know more about massage or reflexology and how it may help you, please contact us on 087 9510554 or email solaceholisticcentre@gmail.com.



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