Techniques Used in Reflexology

Many have turned to alternative medicine as a safe, holistic form of treatment for body ailments. It's not uncommon for alternative practices to be used along with traditional medical care. Reflexology is one such practice that works with area pressure points on the body. These techniques are known to reduce feelings of stress, certain body ailments, and can be self-administered.

Identification

• Reflexology is a system of healing that originated in Egypt thousands of years ago. It's based on reflex points, located on the hands, ears and feet. By applying pressure to these points, the body is able to heal and is restored to balance. Pressure is applied by massaging these reflex points with the thumbs and fingers. The practice assigns specific areas of the hands, ears and feet to specific areas in the body. It's been claimed to help with stress reduction, however any actual treatment effects remain unconfirmed.

Hand Techniques

• Hand reflexology techniques can be done in 10-minute increments or longer, more thorough sessions of 30 to 45 minutes. They can be self-administered, or done by a reflexologist. Charts listing which areas of the body correspond to reflex points on the hand can be found online. Reflex points are located on the finger tips and fingers, across the palm and along the areas in between the fingers. Pressure can be applied through massage, or by squeezing target areas, but not to the extent where it's painful.

Foot Techniques

• Reflexology techniques performed on the feet are similar to those done on the hands. Reflex points on the feet also correspond with different areas of the body. The foot's structure reflects the body from the top down, with the tip of the toes representing the head and the center portion of the foot representing the center of the body. Any massage performed should work from the toes down so as to promote relaxation. Massaging upwards will rather have the opposite effect.

Ear Techniques

• Ear reflexology techniques involve a gentle grasping, pulling and rubbing of the ear's surface. Certain reflex points on the ear are reported to improve emotional states of anxiety. Massaging the ears involves using your thumbs and index fingers to pull gently on the outside edges. This can be done all along the ears' edges, from top to bottom. This technique also includes running an index finger along the inside surface of the ear, including any folds and ridges, as well as along the backside of the ear.

Benefits

• In terms of the body's overall comfort, the hands and feet are able to set the tension level throughout the body. Stress is well known for its adverse effects on the body, especially over long periods of time. Reflexology techniques are currently being studied as a possible treatment for other forms of illness. Since its primary function is to restore overall balance, this practice is a long-term treatment. Conditions involving stress, fatigue, skin problems, digestive irregularities and menstrual discomfort may benefit from reflexology's long-term healing effects.