HOW  REFLEXOLOGY  AND  A  HEALTHY  DIET  CAN  HELP  RELIEVE  YOUR  SAD

There are two major hormones that play a part in SAD

• Melatonin

• Serotonin

While it's dark, the body produces the hormone melatonin, which makes us sleep.
Light stops melatonin production, so we wake up.  When the body does not produce enough melatonin this can affect our waking and sleeping process, therefore effecting what we call 'our body clock'. For those of you who have ever flown long haul, you would have experienced this effect as the more commonly known 'jet lag'.

As much as 90 percent of the body's serotonin resides in the intestinal tract, where it does its part to aid in digestion. The rest reside in the central nervous system, activating responses that alter mood and feelings of hunger.

In the winter months as we lose more daylight hours, some of use cannot maintain this balance efficiently and can succumb to the disorder known as SAD 'seasonal affective disorder.

Using specific reflex points on the feet, the trained reflexologist will be able to bring about a balance between the two parts of our autonomous nervous system, the part of our body that allows us to 'rest and digest' or to 'fight and flight'. Whilst the body rests deeply during a reflexology treatment, the brain can efficiently search out any imbalances and works towards affecting change; thereby creating harmony within the body.

 HEALTHY DIET

Foods that release serotonin in the brain have been known to benefit SAD sufferers when used in conjunction with Complementary therapies in less severe cases

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that can improve mood, enhance sleep and reduce the sensation of pain. It's difficult to boost serotonin levels with diet alone, because foods affect different people in different ways. However, it's possible to boost the production of serotonin in the brain by eating specific foods. Choose healthy foods whenever possible to get the benefits of increased serotonin production without extra fat, cholesterol and calories.

Dark Chocolate can raise serotonin levels in the brain. Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and slow the destruction of cells.

Dairy products can contribute to an increase in serotonin because they contain a simple sugar called lactose. Simple sugars help boost serotonin levels, which can help improve mood or make it easier to fall asleep. Dr. Ellen Weber, president of the MITA International Brain Based Renewal Centre, recommends drinking warm milk to sleep more soundly and eating cheeses to boost energy in the afternoon

Fruits and vegetables that contain folic acid can help to boost serotonin levels and improve mood.

• oranges

• spinach

• broccoli

• corn

• beetroot

• parsnips

• brussel sprouts

• mushrooms

• dates

Choose complex carbohydrates, which need to be broken down before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

• legumes: peas, beans, peanuts, lentils, chickpeas and soybeans

• starchy vegetables

• oatmeal

• whole-grain cereals
   

Try to reduce caffeine in your diet as this artificially stimulates the body,

• listen to your body's messages and rest when necessary

• drink plenty of de-caffeinated, unsweetened fluids, i.e. water, fresh juice, organic squash or herbal teas

• avoid stress, learn relaxation techniques

• get out into the fresh air and walk in daylight whenever possible