🌞 Are you experiencing fluid retention or swollen ankles in the heat?

How Hydration and Reflexology Can Help

You’re not alone. Many people find their ankles swell in hot weather — especially while travelling — but do you know why?

It’s often down to fluid retention caused by your circulatory and lymphatic systems slowing down. In the heat, your body naturally tries to cool itself by dilating the veins. This can reduce blood circulation, and when circulation slows, your lymphatic system also becomes sluggish. If you’re even slightly dehydrated, your body starts holding onto fluid — and that’s when swelling can appear.

💧 Hydration is key. A simple way to check your hydration is by your urine: you should be passing water regularly and aiming for a pale straw colour. Darker urine is a sign your body needs more fluids.

Think of it like watering a dry plant pot. If the soil is too dry, water runs straight out without being absorbed. What it really needs is a long soak — and in the same way, our bodies need regular, small sips of water to truly rehydrate, rather than large gulps that just pass through.

When you’re hydrated, your body can absorb nutrients, eliminate toxins, and regulate fluid retention more effectively. Good hydration also helps your circulation, and as blood flow improves, your lymphatic system begins to work more efficiently — helping to reduce swelling and return your ankles to their usual size.

How reflexology can help

Reflexology is known to support circulation and the body’s natural detoxification processes.

Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) is an award-winning, evidence-based technique developed to mirror the effects of manual lymphatic drainage massage — and can be a great support for those experiencing swelling due to heat or travel.

💡 Curious to try? Book a reflexology treatment here and see how it could support you this summer.

PB x

👣