Freeflow: Maternity Reflexology
Bethan Parfitt of Divine Blossom MBACP, MAR, MARR
Feminine Embodiment Coach
Divine Blossom Women’s Health and Wellbeing Clinic
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Reflexology, rooted in the belief that specific points on the feet correspond to various parts of the body, offers a holistic approach to wellness by applying gentle pressure to these points. This ancient practice not only relaxes the mind, body, and soul but also provides relief from tension, stress, and anxiety while promoting improved mood and general well-being. Among its numerous benefits are increased blood circulation, enhanced immune system, restful sleep, and detoxification.
Reproductive Reflexology, a specialized branch of reflexology, focuses on fertility health for both men and women. Employing specific and prescriptive treatment protocols, it aims to regulate menstrual cycles, improve sperm production and functionality, and address underlying reproductive conditions. Whether preparing to start a family naturally or with medical assistance, individuals may find support in reproductive reflexology. From aiding conception to relieving pain and symptoms associated with reproductive conditions, this approach offers hope and assistance to many.
This post delves deeper into the principles and practices of Reproductive Reflexology, detailing its potential benefits, ideal candidates, and success stories.
About Bethan
My name is Bethan, I am the founder of Divine Blossom Women’s Health and Wellbeing Clinic. I am a Feminine Embodiment Coach working with women to locate, nurture and maintain their connection between mind, body and spirit. I support the development of a harmonious strength that empowers and promotes active health and well-being responsibility, allowing choice and a clear voice when it comes to her body, health and life choices.
Bethan has also written a ‘Real Life Story’ about her experience
Maternity Reflexology
Supporting the continual changes that the body goes through to support the development of a baby is the next part of the journey. I can remember clearly how tired I was during pregnancy. I suffered sickness during all three of my pregnancies, however my second one felt quite extreme. I experienced heartburn on my first and third pregnancy which at some stages was very uncomfortable and I had to be very mindful of what I was eating to avoid feeling worse. During my last pregnancy, I had a lot more knowledge of holistic health and natural ways to manage the body’s responses to the internal changes that were taking place. I feel that adopting a more natural and holistic approach to my pregnancy made such a difference in how I felt physically and emotionally. I was a lot more in tune with my body which supported the choices and decisions that I needed to make along the way. I felt empowered to voice my desires, needs and choices and know intuitively that they were right for me at the time. I was grateful for the medical advice and guidance offered throughout and felt comfortable in combining natural and medical healthcare.
Reflecting on my pregnancies and the work that I was doing I realised that Maternity Reflexology would be another treatment that could offer comfort and support to my clients as they embark on this journey to motherhood. I went on to train with Sally Earlam in Maternity Reflexology, ensuring that I could safely treat pregnant women.
What is Maternity Reflexology?
Pregnancy is a time to nurture and cherish the mum-to-be, and this is one of the aims of Maternity Reflexology. It offers the opportunity to support the body’s physical and emotional needs during pregnancy. Maternity Reflexology is specifically tailored to support pregnancy and labour.
What are the benefits?
- Reduction in morning sickness
- Relieve indigestion and constipation
- Relieve back pain & SPD symptoms
- Prepares the body for labour
- Re-balance hormone levels
- Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety
- Reduce labour time & the need for pain relief
It is worth noting that to fully benefit from this treatment it is recommended to have regular reflexology treatments throughout pregnancy. Studies have shown that starting Reflexology by 32 weeks can reduce the need for induction by 70% as well as reduce labour time down to just 4 hours.
This treatment is also effective at nurturing and supporting the body postnatally. Maternity reflexology may support the balance of hormones as the body transitions from pregnancy. The arrival of a beautiful newborn is such a magical time; however, the changes physically and emotionally can feel overwhelming. Lack of sleep and navigating the new normal that is trying to emerge can lead to feeling lost. Taking the time to receive a treatment such as this can make this beautiful journey into motherhood feel a lot gentler.
A natural progression for me was to explore how to incorporate this with my then toddler and within a few years, my grandchildren. I discovered Baby Reflex™ and Toddler Reflex™. I was so happy to learn sequences that can support teething, digestion, constipation, sleep and boost the immune system. Completing the course not only allowed me to support my family but also to treat others and to teach the routines to parents. Offering parents the opportunity to support their precious little ones naturally. I learned that when supporting a baby with reflexology, we also treat mum. Babies are so connected to their mothers that any signs of stress or distress, no matter how well we think we’re hiding it, can be picked up on by them and could add to their discomfort.
Reproductive Reflexology can support a Woman through all stages of her reproductive cycle, including perimenopause and menopause. I have supported many women through menopausal symptoms who have reported a considerable reduction in hot flashes, improved quality of sleep, balanced mood swings and less discomfort in general. Again, the body therapy combined with mindset support and guidance enhances the ability of the client to manage and support herself.
In my experience, what I know to be true, is that combining body therapies and mindset work delivers the most profound growth and balance. I am an Integrative Counsellor, Coach and Fertile Body Method Practitioner, experienced in working with women to manage anxiety, stress, emotional and physical pain and bring balance and harmony to the body and mind.
One of the greatest gifts that you could receive is the opportunity to grow the relationship that you have with yourself. Allocating regular space and time to connect with how your body communicates imbalances and stress responses is very empowering. Getting to know how your mindset influences the physical response to changes in the internal and external world is invaluable to good health and well-being.
Links to resources
Books
BooksBrain Health from Birth: Nurturing Brain Development During Pregnancy and the First Year by Rebecca Fett
Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols
Film Audio and Apps
Film Audio and AppsBaby Buddy app, created by the Best Beginnings Charity
Websites
WebsitesReferences
- Lee, N. and Saha, S., 2011. Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America, [online] 40(2), pp.309-334. Available at: <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3676933/>
