Reflexology is the act of applying pressure to the hands and feet, without the use of any oil or lotion, using specific thumb, finger and hand techniques. It is based on the system of reflex areas and zones, that reflect an image of the body on the hands and feed and the physical change is effected to the entire body. Reflexology helps people, in reducing stress. As the hands and feet set the levels of tension in the rest of the body, they can be used to interrupt the stress signal and reset the body’s equilibrium. There are “reflex areas” on the hands and feet that correspond to specific organs, glands and other parts of the body. By applying pressure to these reflex areas, you can improve the health of the corresponding organs throughout the body, as the pressure send signals that balances the nervous system or releases chemicals like endorphins.

As reflexology is for form of alternative therapy, it helps in:

•Relieving Stress
•Digestion
•Reducing tension headaches
•Hormonal imbalance
•Arthritis
•Backaches
•Menstrual problems like postmenstrual syndrome (PMS)


The following are techniques you can use to practice hand reflexology:

1.Start your relaxing ten-minute hand reflexology treatment, by pinching the tips of the thumb and each finger, on your right hand, repeating the process with your left hand. While the pressure applied should be firm, it should not cause any pain. Pressing each fingertip for a few seconds is enough.
2.Go back to the tips of each finger and thumb, pressing them again, but this time, from size. Again, applying pressure may cause a little discomfort, but should not cause any pain.
3.Rub the tops, bottom and sides of each finger and the thumb vigorously, beginning  at the base of the finger, to the tip.
4.Grasp each finger and the thumb at the base and tug firmly. Let your grip loosen a little, graduating from the base to the fingertip, till your finger slips out of your grasp.
5.Use your thumb and forefinger and forefinger to grasp the webbed-area between the thumb and forefinger of the other hand. Firmly, but gently, tug the skin, till the flesh snaps away from your grasp.  Repeat this for the webbed areas between all the fingers.
6.Rest the palm of your hand on the palm of your free hand and massage the back of the hand with your thumb, focusing the knuckles and the knuckle area.
7.Cradle your wrist in your free hand and use your thumb to massage your inner wrist.
8.Massage the palm of your hand, using your thumb. Use your knuckles to massage the fleshier mound areas.
9.Press your thumb deeply, in the center of your palm, taking a few cleansing breaths.
10.Relax, clear your mind and focus on your healing intensions.

Pregnant women or people with foot ulcers or injuries and blood vessel related problems should consult their doctors, before using reflexology.