How to Ease Tension With Reflexology

The ancient art of reflexology releases blockages by gently manipulating pressure points in the hands, feet and ears. Not only does reflexology relax the body, it can strengthen the immune system, relieve pain, improve circulation and impart a sense of overall wellbeing. It works better if you have a partner to massage your feet for you; however, you can also perform this foot massage on yourself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Oil or cream
• Towel
• Reflexology charts

1. Soak your partner's feet in warm water and epsom salt. This will not only clean the feet, but it will relax your partner. Dry the feet before you rub them.
2. Rub the oil or cream into the feet, one at a time, on the top and bottom and between the toes. Use long, soothing strokes.
3. Place both hands around the foot with your thumbs on the top of the foot. Slide your thumbs between the tendons from the ankle to the toes with long, smooth, firm strokes.
4. Make circular motions on the bottom of the foot from toes to heels. Press more firmly on the heels.
5. Massage the toes, stretching gently with a circular motion.
6. Go back over the entire foot, paying close attention to any sore spots. Gently twist the foot to relax the ankle muscles.
7. Gently massage the entire foot from the toes to the ankles.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink plenty of water after a reflexology session to flush the toxins that were released.
• Avoid reflexology during the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Get your doctor's permission before seeing a reflexologist if you have a pacemaker, kidney stones or gallstones, high blood pressure, thyroid disease or diabetes, a foot injury, phlebitis, thrombosis, or if you've ever had blood clots.