Hello I’m Kath, an empathic and experienced Reflexologist offering treatments on the feet and face. One of the key potential benefits of my treatments is deep relaxation which I think in our busy modern world is something many of us could do with.
However, I keep thinking about the need to sneak a bit more relaxation into our everyday lives between any treatments we may have, rather than waiting until we are running on empty to prioritise relaxation and our own well-being. I know from talking with clients, friends and family that this is not as easy as it sounds. Even as a Holistic therapist with lots of lovely tips and techniques to support relaxation, I don’t always find it easy to find moments to relax.
So, with this in mind, I thought I’d share a few thoughts and ideas that have helped me add in some daily calm, in the hope we can all enjoy some small snippets of relaxation on a daily basis. Feeling relaxed shouldn’t just be reserved for the treatment room.
Firstly, try to go easy on yourself; it’s all too easy to berate ourselves for not doing more to feel relaxed and prioritise our well-being. We’re all doing our best, and life can often be busy with many demands on our time. It’s also important to remember the goal isn’t to feel relaxed all of the time as this simply isn’t realistic.
One trick that worked for me was adding a relaxing moment I enjoy to something I already do every day. So, when I boil the kettle, I try to focus on my breathing and make my out breath a little bit longer than my in breath. Gently lengthening the outbreath can signal to our bodies that is safe to start relaxing.
I also find it much easier to focus on adding in good stuff rather than focusing on cutting out stuff that maybe isn’t as good for me! (carrot rather than stick). I have recently got back into my love of reading which has naturally meant less time for screens. Having a pile of great books from the library by my bed is proving very helpful.
I found starting small really helped and felt more manageable. I try to think of things I can do that require no equipment, are fast, simple and free. Many of the examples I’ve popped below can also be done on the go or at work. Ensure you choose things that you feel safe and comfortable doing.
Sanguine sixty: ideas to add in a relaxing moment, in less than 60 seconds
· If you’re outside take your shoes off and scootch your feet in grass
· Spend an extra minute gently massaging your face or scalp gently whilst you wash
· Give yourself a slow hand massage (adding hand cream if you have it to hand)
· Using a flat hand, stroke softly and slowly up your other arm from hand to elbow
· For the next few breaths, hum gently on each out breath
If you are interested in coming to see me for a treatment please do get in touch - however relaxed you are (or aren’t), you are very welcome. Reflexology is a non-invasive complementary therapy based on the theory that reflexes (points) on the feet, hands and face correspond with different areas of the body. As a Reflexologist I gently stimulate these reflexes to encourage deep relaxation across the whole body and promote a greater sense of wellbeing.
Female client, 89 years old: "I had already been having foot reflexology for some years when I needed to find a new Reflexologist and came across Kath. She was friendly and easy to talk to from the start. I've been seeing her every month for over 3 years now and I find her sessions help me with relaxation. Kath knows her job well and has knowledge and understanding of what she's doing. She's also a good listener. I would absolutely recommend her."
Reflexology does not diagnose or treat conditions and is never a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
Kath Smith is the Reflexologist behind The Sanguine Smith, based at Wellness34 on Wednesdays.