How to Practice Self Reflexology

Reflexology is a healing art which involves applying pressure on the feet, hands, and ears in order to ameliorate pain and stress. The practice of reflexology dates back nearly 5,000 years to ancient Egypt. Today, reflexology is heralded for a multitude of health benefits including, but not limited to, reduced stress, improved circulation and enhanced energy. You can practice self reflexology at home using a few simple techniques.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Place your left foot over your right knee. Interlace your fingers between your toes then rotate at the ankle in clockwise motion. Reverse the direction and rotate in counter-clockwise motion. Repeat this exercise with the right foot.
2. Keep your fingers interlaced between your toes and stretch your Achilles tendon by stretching the foot forwards and backwards.
3. Put the ball of your foot between your hands like a sandwich. Move your foot backwards and forwards. Repeat this exercise with your other foot.
4. Use your thumb to apply pressure to the inner edge of the ball of your foot. Use your other hand to hold the toes of the foot and provide support as you apply pressure. Repeat this activity with the other foot.
5. Set one hand on top of your foot and the other underneath your foot. Knead your foot between your two hands as if you were rolling dough.
6. Create a fist with your right hand and press the fist against the bottom of your left foot. Line your knuckles up with the base of your toes. Place your left hand on the other side of your foot so that the foot is sandwiched between your right and left hands. Push your hands together, squeezing your foot between your hands. Reverse with the right foot.
7. Rest both hands at the sides of your foot and then slide your hands up and down. The friction will warm your foot and relieve stress. Then, hack the foot by hitting the bottom of the foot with the side of your hand. Repeat with the other foot. Close your session by running the knuckle of one finger vertically along the base of each foot.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean your hands and feet thoroughly before commencing with a self reflexology session. You may apply essential oils to your hands and feet to enhance the benefits of the session.
• Rest in a chair or on the floor in a comfortable position. Rub your hands back and forth against one another vigorously. You'll feel heat emanate from your hands.
• Stretch toes and fingers by pulling on each and then twisting them back and forth.
• Don't assume that this represents a comprehensive reflexology session. Additional techniques are used for specific ailments.