29/07/2026
Are you feeling like a bit rundown, on edge, or stressed. This could be due to your sympathetic nervous system being constantly in 'fight or flight' mode. This is very common feeling because of how modern life is. It is helpful to understand about the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and how they impact our body.
The Parasympathetic Nervous System & Reflexology
Our bodies have two main branches of the nervous system that help us respond to life:
• The Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): This is our "fight or flight" mode. It keeps us alert and ready for action, but when overactive, it can leave us feeling stressed, tense, and fatigued.
• The Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): This is our "rest and digest" mode. It slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, improves digestion, and allows the body to relax, repair, and restore balance.
Modern life often keeps us stuck in sympathetic overdrive – constantly on the go, stressed, and unable to fully switch off.
How Reflexology Helps
Reflexology works by applying gentle pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to different systems of the body. This calming touch helps to:
• Activate the parasympathetic nervous system
• Reduce stress and tension
• Slow the heart rate and encourage deeper breathing
• Promote better digestion and circulation
• Support the body’s natural healing and balance
Many clients report feeling deeply relaxed during and after a session – sometimes even drifting into a meditative state or light sleep. This is a sign the parasympathetic nervous system is engaged, giving the body the space it needs to restore itself.
If you’ve been feeling stressed, anxious, or run-down, reflexology may help you tap back into your body’s natural rest-and-repair mode.
Sole & Body Work offers reflexology for relaxation, clinical reflexology, and reflexology for menopause.
To find out more about reflexology and it's benefits, visit:
www.soleandbodywork.co.uk