Last Updated on February 23, 2022
Hands reflexology, also called zone therapy, is one of the oldest and most natural forms of healing. The premise behind this is that there are reflexology points on the hands and feet that correspond to every organ and system in the body.
In this post, we will specifically talk about hand reflexology and learn about the different techniques on how you can apply pressure points to relieve stress and reduce pain!
What is Hand Reflexology?
Hand reflexology massage is a therapeutic approach that focuses on specific reflex points located in both hands.
The goal of this type of massage is to improve health and well-being by treating a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, headaches, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Aside from the hands, there are also other reflexology points in different areas of the body such as the foot reflexology and the ear reflexology.
Reflexology vs Acupuncture
Reflexology and acupuncture are two Eastern alternative medicine practices that have been used for centuries. Though they share some similarities, they also have many differences.
First off is that reflexology is based on the theory that there are reflex points on the hands, feet, or ears that correspond to every other part of the body. Treatment of symptoms is done by gently applying pressure to a specific reflex point for pain relief.
On the other hand, acupuncture is based on the theory that energy, or chi, flows through the body along meridians. When these pathways are blocked, illness can occur; so, the main point of acupuncture treatment is to unblock stagnant chis by inserting very thin needles into the skin to balance a person’s energy.
Potential Benefits of Hand Reflexology
Hand reflexology is believed to be an effective means to relieve symptoms and discomfort, but it should not be seen as a complete cure for these issues.
Although reflexology is not a new practice, it is gaining in popularity as people learn about its potential benefits. Some people may be hesitant to try reflexology because they are not sure how it works or what to expect, but the potential benefits are worth considering.
Here are the said benefits of this therapy to the human body based on anecdotal evidence:
- improve blood circulation
- release tension
- promote relaxation
- boost immune system
- improve mood and well-being
- clear up sinus problems
- relieve pain such as rheumatoid arthritis
Different Zones on Your Hands
Learn about certain pressure points and zones from this hand reflexology chart.
As you can notice, each pressure point has corresponding areas of the body parts positioned from top to bottom for both palms. However certain parts like the spinal column seem to be out of place which is placed along the edge of the hand just below the thumb.
1. Tips of fingers and thumbs
The joints at the tips of your fingers represent the head, brain, and sinuses, while the center of your thumb’s pads is home to your pituitary, pineal, and hypothalamus glands.
2. Section between the first and second knuckles
This zone in your thumb and finger corresponds to your neck. Additionally, the fleshy part between the base of your thumb and index finger is the zone for your throat.
3. Section between the second and third knuckles
This section represents your eyes or ears, depending on the finger. Your eyes are associated with your index and middle finger, whereas your ears are for your ring and pinky finger.
4. Upper portion of the palm
The lung, chest, breast, and bronchial areas of the body are located just below the knuckles of your four fingers on the palm side.
5. Line from middle finger to the center of the palm
Imagine four more zones down the previous chest zone in line with your middle finger. In descending order, each of these four zones represents your:
- Solar plexus
- Adrenal glands
- Kidneys
- Intestines
6. Base of the thumb to the bottom of the palm
There are four zones starting at the throat zone and leading down to the bottom of your palm closest to the side of your thumb. These zones correspond to the following in descending order:
- Thyroid gland
- Pancreas
- Bladder
- Uterus/prostrate
Take note that near these zones just outside the same area represents your spine and spinal column. You can locate this along the side of your right and left thumb, reaching down to your wrist.
7. Inside the area of your palm
There are three zones running down the inside of your palms from your pinky to your wrist. The top zone is for your shoulder and arms, while the bottom is for your hip and thigh.
The middle zone on the other hand is different depending on the side. The left hand is for your heart and spleen while your right hand is for your liver and gall bladder.
8. Beneath the palm on your wrist
Three more zones are located on your wrist which is the lymph system in line with your middle fingers. Next is in line with your pinkies is where the testes or ovaries zone rests.
Lastly, beneath both these zones is where the sciatic nerve is located.
Pressure Point for Different Health Issues
There are specific pressure points on the body that, when stimulated, provide relief for different health issues. Check below to see which point you have to apply pressure to get the relief you need:
Anxiety
Apply gentle pressure on your point located just above the crease along your outer wrist to relieve your anxiety. You will feel a small dent in this location which makes applying gentle pressure on it easy.
Massage this area for about a minute on both wrists.
Constipation
If you are experiencing stress-related constipation, locate the point between your thumb and index finger.
On your right hand, use your fingertips to apply pressure to this fleshy part for about one minute. Repeat the same process on your left hand.
Many people are able to find relief at this particular pressure point as well such as headaches and neck tensions.
Sleep-related issues
The bone in the middle of the pad of your thumb contains the entire set of endocrine glands present in the brain, including the pituitary, pineal, and hypothalamus.
Because of this, those glands can be beneficial for treating insomnia and other sleeping issues.
Techniques in Hand Reflexology for Self-treatment
A hands reflexology massage can be performed at home with a few simple basic steps and can be done by anyone, even without any prior experience.
Here are some self-treatment tips and techniques you can do to properly massage your hands on your own:
- Pinch your fingertips. Begin by lightly pinching the tips of your thumbs and fingers on both hands for a few seconds each. The pressure applied on the other hand should be firm but not too painful.
- Pinch the side of your fingertips. The next step after massaging the top and bottom of your fingertips is to squeeze your fingertips from side to side. Use the same pressure you did a while ago.
- Rub your fingers. Vigorously rub your fingers from top to bottom and from side to side. Do this step for each finger and thumb.
- Tug your fingers. Hold each finger from its base and firmly tug it. Gently loosen your grasp until you reach the tip of your fingers.
- Pinch and pull. Firmly grasp the webbed area between your thumb and index finger. while using your other thumb and forefinger. Hold it firmly before tugging the skin gently until the fleshy part snaps away from your grasp. Repeat this process on your other hand.
- Massage the top of your hand. Place your palm and rest its inside on the palm of your free hand. Using your thumb, gently massage the top of your hand as you move along the knuckles and anything in between them.
- Massage your inner wrists. If you constantly use your wrists in repetitive movements, it can tire easily that is why this massage is very soothing for anyone. Gently place your wrist inside your free hand and use your thumb to massage your inner wrist.
- Massage the palm of your hand. You can use either your knuckle or thumb when massaging the palm of your hand. Feel free to adjust the pressure while massaging your palms.
- Center of your palm. After you’re done with all the routine, firmly and deeply press your thumb on the center of your palm. Take a few deep breaths while doing this while clearing your mind and setting your intentions.
Is Reflexology Safe?
Hand reflexology is generally safe but before booking for a hand reflexology session, make sure to consult with your doctor first if you have the following for precautionary purposes:
- infectious disease
- gout
- inflammation in the hands
- thyroid issues
- skin infections – either bacterial or fungal
- open wounds
- epilepsy
Takeaway
Hand reflexology massage is a beneficial practice that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a simple and easy way to improve your overall health and well-being while ensuring a safe and natural treatment.
Interested in trying reflexology massage? Consult your reflexology therapist now!
