While you may be tempted to trim your wellness budget when economic times are tough, now more than ever, reflexology should play a role in reducing stress and strengthening the health of Americans.

When you feel your best, you are more likely to be able to face the challenges difficult times present. With greater health and peace of mind, you can face difficulties with poise, clarity of purpose and strengthened emotional reserves.

Reflexology is more than a luxury—it is a vital part of self-care that has a positive ripple effect on us as we work, play, relax, live life and care for others.

Invest In Yourself, Invest in Those You Love – In economically challenging times, it is vital to invest in preventative health care. The last thing you want is to get sick, have to take time off of work and pay expensive medical bills.  Staying healthy means maintaining your ability to take whatever life has to throw at you.  Besides lowering stress levels and, in turn, reducing the risk of stress-related illnesses, reflexology also boosts immunity, helping you fight colds, flu and other viral infections.

And if you think about it, reflexology is an excellent value.  The price of reflexology has remained stable in recent years, as the cost of movies, dining out and sports events has risen.  Even though these things are enjoyable, which of these has the power to improve your health and your outlook on life?

The positive effects of regular reflexology can have far-reaching effects in many areas of your life.

At Home – Reflexology therapy will help families under stress create healthier households with clear-thinking and more relaxed moms and dads in the house. Children are very sensitive and often pick up on tension in a household, parents who are taking care of themselves are more likely to be better caregivers and provide a sense of security to their kids. This goes for caregivers of aging parents and other family members also.

At Work -The health benefits of reflexology can help forestall illnesses and lost work time, especially when you may be asked to produce more with fewer resources.  Decision-making skills will be better and your performance is likely to be improved with a clear focus and more energy.  A hint for the boss: Research shows employees exhibit less stress and improved performance when given consistent reflexology sessions in the office.

For Health Conditions -Those with already existing health conditions can continue to reap benefits as their health improves.  And proactively caring for health through reflexology may help reduce costly doctor visits and use of prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Research shows reflexology can reduce sports-related soreness and improve circulation–good to know when you may be exercising more to reduce stress.

Reflexology is effective in treating back pain, sciatic issues, arthritis, asthma, high blood pressure, premenstrual syndrome, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia patients receiving reflexology also have less pain, depression, anxiety, stiffness, fatigue and sleep problems.

Reflexology helps reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.Oncology patients show less pain, fatigue, nausea, anxiety and depression following a reflexology session.

Reflexology is effective reducing postsurgical pain.

Labor pain. Reflexology during labor appears to reduce stress and anxiety, relax muscles and help block pain. Some medical professionals believe reflexology shortens labor, reduces the need for medication and shortens hospital stays.

There is now a body of research to support the benefits listed above. But there’s no greater testimonial than the person who is a regular receiver of reflexology. The first-hand experience of bodywork clients largely echo the same sentiment: bodywork enhances quality of life, and the return on your investment is great.

While reflexology feels like a luxurious mini-vacation, and you should by all means enjoy it, there is an actual physical need for bodywork. Maintaining a regular reflexology schedule will help you operate at your peak level–whether it is at work, at home, or at play. Invest in yourself and book a reflexology session today.