Solar Plexus

Reflexology uses specific points (reflexes) on the feet which relate to specific organs in the body.

I am going to look at 5 different “power points” and what they do. I’ve chosen these as they have important roles, but are often points that show imbalance in my clients.

Today I am looking at the solar plexus. I have one client who, when I press on this point, always stops talking and feels the need to take in a really deep breath. This is because the solar plexus is a central point for breathing.

But firstly, what is the solar plexus and where is it?

The solar plexus is found just under the diaphragm and is a network of nerves from the digestive system, liver, kidneys, lungs. It gets its name from its resemblance to sun’s rays. The nerves form part of the sympathetic nervous system, therefore when under stress it can speed up bodily systems and cause feelings of anxiety.

One of the systems affected is the respiratory system. When stressed we breathe faster and more shallowly, muscles tighten, heart rate speeds up and blood pressure rises.
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By pressing the solar plexus reflex, muscles relax, breathing slows and deepens, bodily systems slow to a normal rate, and deep relaxation is achieved.