How to Understand Chinese Foot Reflexology

Chinese foot reflexology is part of the greater Chinese therapeutic system of acupressure which involves stimulating acu points on the human body in order to promote the flow of healing energy called chi. The feet contain areas and points that correspond to certain organs and bodily systems, and those areas are massaged in order to reduce pain or relieve symptoms of health disorders. For example, a study published in the journal "Applied Nursing Research" in November 2003, found that foot reflexology was able to provide immediate relief of pain to patients suffering from metastatic cancer. To properly understand Chinese reflexology, you need to experience it for yourself by visiting a practitioner or learning the basics on your own.

Things You'll Need

• Reflexology chart

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Instructions

• 1

  Buy a foot reflexology chart at a Chinese herb shop, chiropractic supply store or online. You can also find reflexology charts inside of massage books, especially those that focus on acupressure or pressure points in general.

• 2

  Using your fingers, slowly massage the soles of your feet as well as the heels, balls and the areas around your toes. When you feel a tender spot where there is tight or tense muscle tissue, stop and apply direct pressure.

• 3

  Use the reflexology chart to see which area of the body, or what organ, the tender area or point corresponds to. Pay close attention to the corresponding area of the body as you gently, but firmly, massage the tissue in the foot.

• 4

  Use Chinese reflexology on the tender points daily until all tenderness and tightness in the tissue is gone. Monitor closely the effect that has on the condition or area that may be related.

• 5

  Continue to use the reflexology chart to locate areas that correspond to health conditions you have. As you learn by experience, your understanding of Chinese foot reflexology will deepen.