How to Apply Reflexology to the Hands

As a healing technique, reflexology is a system of stimulating target areas of the hands and feet to purportedly promote healing in other parts of the body. Reflexology is believed to relieve stress and to bring the body to a state of homeostasis, or equilibrium. Reflexology is purported to relieve conditions such as arthritis, insomnia and muscle aches.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Reflexology chart

Learn About Reflexology

1. Attend a course or seminar on the study and application of reflexology. If you are willing to pay for a more expensive course, find one that provides materials and hands-on experience. Narrow your choices by finding classes that focus on the hand. The International Institute of Reflexology sponsors a series of workshops for a more intensive learning experience or to gain accreditation (see Resources below).

2. Log on to the Web to find additional articles, sites and resources on reflexology. Avoid web sites that are strewn with blinking ads and litter your desktop with pop-up ads. Start with the International Institute of Reflexology Web site and go from there.

3. Use purchased or home-made reflexology instruments (such as rollers) to aid in performing this healing technique. Items range from inexpensive to expensive. Spend no cash by utilizing items from home, for example, a golf ball or a small, cylindrical spray can.

Apply Reflexology to the Hands

4. Locate the areas of the body you feel need treatment.

5. Use the reflexology chart to pinpoint the correct hand reflex zone or zones. Remember to check both hands.

6. Apply pressure to the desired hand reflex zone and gradually push harder. Do not apply so much pressure that the pain is unbearable, though you should feel a good amount or resistance.

7. Stimulate the entire hand reflex zone designated by the reflexology chart. Be aware that reflex zones may span across both hands.

8. Hold pressure on the hand reflex zone for 20 or more seconds, in addition to quick pulses of one or two seconds.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are self-healing, reflexology instruments are available for purchase. Prices are inexpensive to moderate.
• Buy a book that includes a map of the hand reflex zones, like "Hand Reflexology Revised & Expanded." (see Resources below)
• Reflexology is not meant to treat or diagnose specific illnesses, nor is a reflexologist a licensed medical practitioner. Seek professional medical attention if you are experiencing severe or chronic pain.
• Avoid reflexology if you are pregnant.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.

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