I was in my 40’s when I finally heard that PMT (Pre-Menstrual Tension) is NOT normal and we should not be accepting it as normal. There are many environmental factors which disrupt the endocrine system, making us feel anything other than ourselves. These environmental factors include: pesticides, added hormones and chemicals contaminating the food chain, known endocrine disrupting chemicals added to our everyday bathroom and cleaning products as well as being surrounded by thinking which does not align with our inner knowing (intuition or soul wisdom).
The endocrine system is made up of various glands such as the pancreas, thyroid, adrenal, ovaries and testes which create the hormones throughout the body. Here is a brief description of each gland.
The pancreas
Functions to produce insulin by converting food eaten into fuel for the whole body’s cells. Located in the abdomen below the stomach.
Thyroid
Is butterfly shaped, located in the front of the neck at the base of the throat. It is the true powerhouse of your entire body because the hormones it produces create power for each and every one of your cells.
Adrenal
Small glands located on top of each kidney, responsible for producing hormones of adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones play a critical role in the freeze, fight or flight response. To allow the adrenal glands to level out these hormones, in times of busyness it is important to balance your life with relaxation time.
Ovaries
A female reproductive organ responsible for secreting estrogen and progesterone. Both hormones play a role in menstruation and a healthy reproductive system.
Testes
A male reproductive organ responsible for the secretion of testosterone. Testosterone is responsible for the development of male physical characteristics.
Pituitary Gland
Is considered the master gland, located in the brain. Stimulating this gland in Reflexology is beneficial to help balance the body.
Thymus
Is located behind the breastbone, in front of the heart. The thymus plays an important role in developing from a baby, child, teenager to adult. The thymus produces progenitor cells which develop into T cells vital for your immune system to function.
Pineal
Is a small pea-shaped gland found in the brain, it produces melatonin which is an important hormone to regulate sleep patterns and controls the body’s circadian rhythm. When a Reflexology treatment has included this gland, recipients may report ‘sleeping better.’
Signs & Symptoms of common hormonal imbalances include:
- Fluid retention (bloating and nothing fits)
- Headaches
- Persistent tiredness to Fatigue
- Irritability and grumpiness
- Heavy flow (females only)
- Feeling not quite right
Reflexology aims to bring the body to a state of homeostasis. A Reflexology treatment aimed specifically at the endocrine system will focus on balancing the body’s hormones. A standard reflexology treatment may incorporate an endocrine balance, however, if you require a more focused treatment aimed at balancing your hormones, please let your Reflexologist at Heel to Heal know at the time of booking your treatment.
If you are experiencing hormonal imbalances it is recommended to explore the external factors contributing to the imbalance and using treatments at Heel to Heal to support you on your journey, assisting your body to find it’s balance as you heal inside out.
I look forward to seeing you at your next session at Heel to Heal.
Many Blessings
References
- Women’s Wellness Wisdom: What Every Woman Needs to Know, Dr Libby, Nutrional Biochemist, Little Green Frog Publishing, 31 August 2016
- The Thyroid Connection, Amy Myers, Little Brown and Company, September 2016
- PMT – Menopause Workshop, Karen Bishop, Feel Good Therapies, June 2022
- All About Hormones: How they Function to Keep You Healthy, https://askthescientists.com/hormones/, 2022
- A Mind of Your Own, Kelly Brogan, MD, Harper Collins Publishers, 2016