Reflexology is a therapeutic technique that relieves pain and boosts overall health by stimulating pressure points in the feet and hands. While most people visit a professional reflexologist for this treatment, you can still experience the benefits of this therapy by doing it yourself. But before I show you how to practice reflexology on your own, I’ll explain all the potential benefits it offers and why it works.
How Does Reflexology Work?
Reflexology is a scientific practice based on the concept that there are “zones” or reflex areas on the hands and feet that correspond to various glands, organs, parts, and systems within the body.
The principle behind reflexology suggests that applying pressure to these areas using specific techniques involving the thumb, fingers, and hands helps reduce stress in the body. This reduction in stress is believed to trigger numerous positive physiological changes, potentially aiding in the healing of various conditions.
Research has shown a link between reflexology and the improvement of symptoms related to certain health issues. Notably, eight randomized clinical trials have indicated that reflexology was effective in treating conditions such as diabetes, premenstrual syndrome, cancer, multiple sclerosis, symptomatic idiopathic detrusor over-activity, and dementia.
Using the Pressure Points In Feet
- Stimulates nerve function
- Increases energy
- Enhances circulation
- Removes toxins
- Prevents migraines
- Cleanses the urinary tract
- Accelerates recovery from injuries
- Treats sleep disorders
- Reduces depression
- Eases pain
Reflexology also allows you to focus on specific areas of your body by applying the same principles of acupressure.
Reflexology Foot Massage: Pressure Points in Your Feet
Now that you know about all the ways that reflexology can benefit your health, I am going to show you how to perform it on yourself with this simple foot massage!
- The first step is to sit in a comfortable but firm chair. Lift one foot and place it on the knee of the opposite leg, allowing you to easily rub and massage the bottom of that foot. Be sure to keep your back straight and avoid slouching.
- Next, refer to your Acupressure Foot Chart (below, or click here) to identify the part of your body you want to treat. For instance, if you’re experiencing neck pain, locate the number associated with the “neck” area. Then, find the corresponding area on your foot that is labeled with the same number. This is the part of your foot you’ll focus on.
- After finding the corresponding area on your foot, use the tip of your thumb to apply deep pressure and knead that area for 1-2 minutes. Then, repeat the process on the opposite foot using the opposite thumb.
- Repeat this process for any other area on your body that you want to treat.
You can perform this type of massage every day. However, the pressure points will gradually get used to the stimulation, making it less effective over time. Therefore, after 10 consecutive days of reflexology, it’s recommended to take a 3-4 day break to allow the pressure points’ tolerance to reset.
Give this pressure point massage method a try if you’re dealing with any aches, pains, or ailments, and share your reflexology experience with us in the comment section.
