A foot reflexology treatment in progress.
Foot reflexology is a type of complimentary medicine where you apply pressure to specific points on the foot to improve the functioning of a body system and improve overall health. The left foot is said to correspond to the left side of the body and the right foot corresponds to the right side. Each organ has a particular spot on the foot which can be manipulated for its health benefits.
Finger Walking Technique
Use the finger walking reflexology technique by locating the point on the foot which corresponds to the organ you want to treat. Then apply pressure with your finger to that point while you bend and straighten your finger. Move your finger slightly with each movement so you gradually cover the designated point. Make very tiny movements so the entire point has pressure applied to it.
Thumb Walking Technique
The most common technique in foot reflexology is thumb walking. This is also known as caterpillar walking because the movement of your thumb resembles the movement of a caterpillar. First, locate the point on the foot to be treated. Place your thumb upon it and apply pressure. Move your thumb like a caterpillar as you straighten and bend your thumb applying pressure the whole time. Move your thumb over the entire point area while making very tiny movements.
Toe Rotation
Work all of the points on the toes by using the toe rotation technique. Use your fingers and thumb to grasp each individual toe on the foot one by one. While holding onto a toe gently and slowly rotate it in full circles three times in each direction.
Slide and Press
Place both of your hands on the heel of the foot. Slide your thumbs along the bottom of the foot from the center to the outside, working up from the bottom of the foot to the toes. This technique works a large area of the bottom of the foot and helps to release tension.
Hooking
Work on a small reflex point by using the hook technique. To do this, hold onto the foot with one hand. If you are right handed, use your left hand to hold the foot and your right hand to perform the hook. Place your thumb on the reflex point, press in sharply and quickly withdraw using a hooking motion. This is useful for applying pressure to tiny points and for working through thick skin.
Tags: your thumb, apply pressure, bottom foot, Move your, your finger