So the first thing to point out is that reflexology is actually incredibly beneficial for both circulation and the nerves within the feet. And aside from all the other benefits that can be gained by regular reflexology for diabetics the benefits in reducing foot discomfort in my experience really are quite amazing.

So what is diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disease that results in the individual having high blood sugar levels.
Your blood sugar levels are controlled in the body by 2 hormones, glucagon (causes cells to secret stored sugar into the blood to increases the blood sugar levels) & insulin (causes cells to absorb sugar to decreases the blood sugar levels). In diabetes the insulin does not work correctly resulting in blood sugar levels getting too high.

 The increase in blood sugar levels as a result of diabetes have 3 main symptoms, an increase in urination, thrust and hunger. If the blood sugar levels stay too high over a long period of time they can lead to vision changes due to a change in shape of the lens in the eye, however if the blood sugar level is returned to normal this will often reverse itself.

Diabetes can also cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and hyperventilation.

There are 3 main types of diabetes:

Type 1: This is often referred to as “insulin depended diabetes” because this is when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin and requires injections to control the blood sugar levels.

Type 2: When the cells of the body develop a resistance to insulin and they do not absorb sugars out of the blood.

Gestational diabetes: During pregnancy the pancreas needs to produce extra insulin and if it doesn’t this can lead to a pregnancy related diabetes.

How can Reflexology Help?

Reflexology is great for the localised symptoms of poor circulation and neuropathy (a tingling, numbness, coldness, pain or loss of sensation due to never damage).

But reflexology can do more than that. By working on the feet to stimulate and balance the whole body, and by spending time on specific areas within the body though reflex points in the feet, reflexology can help to return the body back to a balanced state and encourage a general feeling of health and vitality.

 By working on the pancreas and generally the endocrine (hormonal) system reflexology can encourage the production of insulin by helping the cells that produce the insulin to work as efficiently as possible.

The liver would be another key area to work on through reflexology, due to its processing functions being effected by an increase in blood sugar levels.

Reflexology is also great for symptom management; the areas worked on would vary depending on the individuals needs but examples would be the digestive system to reduce nausea and pain or the urinary system to help with the excessive urination.

For treating diabetes initially it is recommended to have regular treatments, once of twice a week. As general vitality and health improve the sessions can be spread out further until they would be once every month to 6 weeks as maintenance. Or until they are no longer required (such as in the case of gestational diabetes)

Written by Jackie Potts (Massage and Reflexology Therapist)

It’s so important to take some time out to pamper your self while you’re pregnant, and having a massage is a great way to indulge while still taking care of your mind and body. 

Pregnancy massage is a relaxing, safe and relieving way to relax and ease pain during pregnancy.
We recommend you wait until you are more than 12 weeks to enjoy a massage and if you’ve had any complications, it’s best to make sure you ask your doctor before you book your massage.

Having regular massages during pregnancy can help you to maintain good health, relieve you of stress and worry, and help ease you through your pregnancy.

Pregnancy massage has many benefits, some of which include:

*Helps to ease backache, headaches, muscle aches and pains
*Decreases pain in the pelvic/hip area
*Increases circulation and improves skin elasticity which reduces stretch marks
*Reduces stress and anxiety, which will help to stabilize hormone levels
*Reduces fatigue and assists with digestion
*Helps to reduce swelling in places such as ankles, legs and hands

Vitality Centre have a special adjustable pregnancy massage couch with a supported hole for the stomach to fit, allowing you to lie on your front in comfort and support whilst you enjoy your special massage.

We have many massage therapists that have pregnancy qualifications and experience. They will always make you feel at ease and comfortable during your lovely treatment. Make sure you inform your therapist of any aches and pains, and they will do their best to adapt the treatment to suit your individual needs, as everyone’s body is different.

At Vitality Centre we have therapists available for pregnancy massage Monday to Saturday – please mention when booking that you are having a special pregnancy massage!

And why not ask about pregnancy reflexology? Many of our pregnancy massage trained therapists are also reflexology trained!

Gift vouchers are also available – pregnancy massage is a great present for expecting Mums!

Treatment Cost: 60mins – £45

If you have any questions regarding this treatment or anything else, please email us: info@vitality-centre.co.uk or give us a call on 020 8871 4677

Holistic Massage
Aromatherapy
Reflexology (Including pregnancy)
Hot Stones Massage
Pregnancy Massage
Ayuvedic Massage

But does intend to be expanding this list!

As well as expanding her knowledge through study Jackie has also gain
practical experience. Her first role as a massage therapist being in a complementary therapy clinic within a doctors surgery.
During her time there she treated a range of conditions from emotional
states such as anxiety and panic to physical conditions such as chronic pain and terminal illness.

Over her years of working as a massage therapist Jackie has also treated couples for fertility though reflexology, and has seen women at various stages of pregnancy for everything from general relaxation and ‘me time’, to reducing discomforts such as back ache and swollen ankles.

Jackie’s most recent adventures have been in 5* spas on board a variety of different cruise ships.
During this time Jackie developed her skills in relaxing treatments to
complement the clinical work she had previously done. She also got to see quite a bit of the world and meet some amazing people.

In 2005 she completed a level 3 diploma with the International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) for Holistic Massage – as well as training in Natural Face Lift Massage the same year, with The London Centre of Indian Champissage International. 

In 2006 she completed a level 3 diploma, also with ITEC, in Lymphatic Drainage Massage. This was followed in 2007 by a level 3 diploma in Reflexology.

Marlene went on to further studies with JING Massage Training in 2008 (Holistic Massage, Hot Stones), Gateway Workshops in 2008 (Indian Head Massage), Inspire Massage Training in 2008 (Pregnancy Massage). Marlene continues to expand her training from year to year with further CPD courses.  

Marlene has a lot of experience supporting pregnant clients with both massage and reflexology and she is passionate about the benefits of natural facelift treatments, manual lymphatic drainage, hot stone massages and reflexology for the feet, hands and the face.  Marlene embraces a holistic, caring, individual approach for each client.

Marlene is also a fully qualified beautician. She is qualified and experienced in eyelash/brow tinting, Dermalogic Facials and Hot/Strip Waxing.

Marlene is available at Vitality Centre on Fridays 10am-7pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm. Please speak to reception if you wish to book an appointment with her, or wish to ask her questions about treatment.

Welcome to the Vitality Centre in Wandsworth, Reflexology treatment.

Reflexology is a therapy in which pressure and specific massage techniques are applied to reflex points on the feet and hands. It is based on the principle that these reflex points correspond in their arrangement to the structure of the body and relate to the organs, glands and systems within.

Reflexology has roots in many cultures. The earliest recording of a therapy in the form of reflexology is found in an Egyptian tomb drawing, date 2330 BC.

Reflexology is a very relaxing and rewarding treatment suitable for people of all ages.

By accessing these reflex points reflexology may be able to:

•    Encourage the body towards self-healing
•    Maintain good health as a help towards preventing illness,
•    Assist with the elimination of toxins and impurities to help cleansing,
•    Revitalise energy,
•    Improve circulation.
•   Migraines & Headaches
•   Constipation
•   Menstrual Problems
•   Stress / Anxiety
•   Insomnia / Depression
•   Infertility Problems
•   Aches and Pains / Back Pain
•   Pregnancy Symptoms
•   High Blood Pressure
•   Hormone Imbalance

ABOUT THE TREATMENT

Your first treatment will consist of a detailed consultation to understand your medical history and to provide insight into any present conditions. The course of treatment varies from person to person.

After the treatment a feeling of total relaxation and serenity is generally experienced as reflexology encourages the body’s energies to harmonize and flow more freely. It is normal if you experience very mild symptoms after the treatment. This is a healing reaction, which lasts for a very short time as the body is eliminating toxins.

Reflexology is available Mon-Sat at Vitality Centre, please call or email reception to check availability.

Treatment Cost: £45 – 60mins