Stress is linked to so many ailments. What better than a method to calm the nervous system and send a message to the body to relax? I often teach my clients reflexology points so they can continue to nurture themselves at home.
I wrote about the benefits of reflexology in this article. Today I’ll offer suggestions on how you can practice reflexology at home.
It’s important to note that trained reflexologists use a specific technique that is effective when working on a reflex. But, this is NOT to say that DIY reflexology isn’t helpful. Incorporating reflexology into your day can have a noticeable impact.
And it gives your feet some much needed love!
There are many reflexology charts available on the internet. They may differ slightly, some more detailed than others. You can always refer to the charts in this article.
Step 1
Set aside 10 minutes, grab your favorite lotion, and find a comfortable seat. Take time to rub the lotion into your feet. Use some pressure as you rub. Get the lotion between the toes. You may start finding tender spots as you do this.
Step 2
Now let’s have you focus on specific areas. There are 2 ways you can do this.
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When you find tender spots, spend more time on them. Simple as that. Use more pressure, but not so much that it’s super painful. You want your body to relax.
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You can focus on areas using a reflexology chart. Below are my suggestions based on my experience as a reflexologist.
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Big Toe
Picture your face on your big toe. The top of your big toe would correspond to the top of your head. Work the entire big toe down to the base of it. You’ll go over so many reflexes – brain, glands, nose, jaw, neck.
If you tend to clench your jaw or grind your teeth you may have a callous on either side of your toe pad, just above the ridge. If you feel overwhelmed, scattered, or really stressed then the top of your toe may be very tender.
Working the entire big toe can also help if you tend to carry stress and tension in your neck and shoulders.
Little toes
The base of the toes, along the ridge, is a shoulder reflex. If you have stress and tension in your shoulders then this is a great place to spend time.
If you work each toe from top to the base then you’ll also be covering many reflexes – neck, sinuses, head. This can be very helpful if you have seasonal allergies.
Arches of the feet
Focus on the area under the ball of the foot to just above the heel to cover many helpful reflexes, including
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Stomach
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Liver
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Gallbladder
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Adrenal glands
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Pancreas
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Hip
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Bladder
Work slowly over this area, so you can notice tender spots. Rub those spots more. In my experience, the adrenal gland reflexes often feel tight, tender, or even puffy. If this is the case then spend a lot of time here.
Don’t forget to breathe as you work on your feet!
Step 3
Once you’ve worked different areas on both feet grab a little more lotion. Rub all over the feet again, like you did in Step 1. Check on those tender spots and see how they feel. They may be less tender.
Lightly stroke your fingers from the ankles to the toes. Barely touch the skin. This can be very soothing and a great way to end your mini session.
You may want to put socks on if you still have a lot of lotion on the feet.
Step 4
Get a glass of water, or hot herbal tea. Reflexology can increase blood flow and you want your body hydrated.
Step 5
Enjoy! Reflexology can be very relaxing. This can be a great practice to do in the evening to help your body calm down.
Try this out and let me know how it goes in the comments below!
I strongly believe that reflexology at home can be a wonderful addition to your routine, but I also know how beneficial a full reflexology session can be. If you’re interested in scheduling one with me then please contact me here.
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