How to Use Chinese Health Balls

Chinese health balls have been used since 26 A.D. and are used in modern times to promote mental, spiritual and physical wholeness. They allow the body to focus energy and also strengthen the hands. Their healing benefits are similar to those of acupuncture, as they release the tension in certain reflex points located in the hands.

Instructions

1. Place a ball in the center of your palm. Gently cup it and begin to rotate the ball clockwise with your fingers. Continue for several minutes, and then turn the ball counterclockwise. Repeat this for both hands.

2. Put two balls in the center of your hand, and use your fingers to rotate them around each other. Start counterclockwise for several minutes, and then switch back to clockwise. Continue with the other hand after you are finished.

3. Set a ball in the palm of your hand. Use your thumb to move it to the base of your pinky, and then roll it slowly to the base of your ring, middle and index fingers. Once you reach your index finger, use your thumb to slowly roll the ball back to the base of your pinky finger. Continue for several minutes, and then switch to your other hand.

4. Hold a ball between your index finger and thumb. Place your middle finger on the ball and remove your index finger. Place your ring finger on the ball and remove your middle finger. Continue for your pinky, then slowly reverse the exercise and work back until the ball is being held by your thumb and index finger once again. Repeat for your other hand after finished.

5. Place one of the balls in the palm of your hand. Tilt your wrist slightly downward, allowing the ball to roll down to the base of your fingers. Carefully move the ball down even further to your fingertips. Be careful not to drop the ball. Slowly move your wrist back and allow the ball to roll back to the base of your fingers, and then finally back into your palm. Repeat for several minutes, and then perform the exercise with your other hand.

Tips & Warnings

• The size of the Chinese health balls makes a difference. The larger and heavier the balls are, the more powerful the effect they have on the reflex points. Practice these exercises often. When possible, perform the exercises with both hands at once to maximize the beneficial effects. It will take significant practice to master these exercises, but many people believe it is worth the effort.

• Always exercise with Chinese health balls over soft flooring such as carpet. This will prevent the balls from breaking in case of accidental drops.