There is a saying that “You can tell a man’s worth from his hands and not his wallet.” True to the saying, our hands suggest the amount of hard work we put in every day. They play a crucial role in our work and life. But do you know that hands also aid in healing diseases? Astounded? Read more to learn more about this technique called Hand Reflexology.
Our hands are of the utmost importance when it comes to sensing, touching and communicating with others. This is perhaps why they are used in reflexology more often. As the reflexologists believe, there are ten reflex points in the body. Five of them are on the left side and the other five on the right side of the body. An examination of the hands can reveal quite a lot about the health, age, and lifestyle of an individual. The quality of the fingernails, in particular, can be viewed as a window to health.
Hand reflexology is a technique whereby specific points on the hands can be stimulated by a massage, for curing various health issues. Reflexology is a traditional Chinese practice that recommends pressure therapy that involves fingers and thumbs to benefit the body.
It was introduced in the U.S in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald who was known as a ear, nose and throat specialists and Edwin F. Bowers. According to William, applying the right pressure on the points can have an anesthetic effect on other parts of the body as well. Here are some important statistics about reflexology in general.
Hand reflexology is an alternative therapy that provides instant relief for various diseases. It targets specific areas of the body by applying pressure to certain points on the hands which channel energies. Reflexologists believe these channels, when blocked, cause diseases.
The pressure applied through hand reflexology clears these blockages and restores well-being and balance to the body. Hand reflexology is a simple and effective therapy which is deeply relaxing and pleasant. Eunice Ingham theory about reflexology suggests that the flow of energy links the organs that fall within the same zone.
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There are some studies that research techniques of hand reflexology and its efficacy in treating some diseases.
The studies mentioned above suggest that hand reflexology is useful in treating constipation, anxiety, and headaches. Let us see how it works with each of these diseases.
Hand reflexology stimulates these acupressure points for constipation. It promotes regular bowel movements and relaxes abdomen muscles by joining the Valley (LI4) point located between the index and thumb finger. Take deep breaths and squeeze the tissue using fingertips. The point gets simulated when you follow it for about one minute. This point, when simulated, also treats diseases like eye problem, toothache, chronic pains, and allergies.
When you are stressed about something and need instant relief, you can try the hand reflexology technique for anxiety. It gives immediate relief. You can find the HT7 point where the wrist forms a crease with the hand. While applying a sufficient amount of pressure, hold this point for about 2 minutes. This point treats anxiety and relieves tension.
[Read: Yoga Poses for Anxiety Control]
Headaches can be treated effectively by this technique, especially if headaches get accused by stress and anxiety. The L14 point, used for treating constipation, can be used for treating headaches too. Also, you can also use the Pericardium 6 (P6) point. You can find it on the crease of your wrist in between tendons. Massage this point for one minute on both hands to get some relief from headaches.
Though hand reflexology technique seems relatively simple, people practicing it, experience a wide range of hand massage benefits, like:
This technique improves blood circulation by effectively carrying more oxygen and blood to all part of the body. As more blood reaches different organs, metabolism gets increased. Also, the organs function in the most optimized way. Boosting circulation, in turn, promotes regrowth and faster healing of damaged cells.
This technique increases the flexibility by easing joint movement. It improves mobility. It is recommended for older people who have rheumatic arthritis.
As hand reflexology’s pain relief is very rapid and fast, patients recover soon and get back to normal life earlier than before. It can also cure difficulties, such as carpal tunnel caused by constant use of computers and repetitive motion.
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Hand reflexology is an easy technique that can be practiced at home by anyone. Keep in mind some rules before practice hand reflexology.
[Read: Ear Relexology]
There are different meridian points in hand, each one pointing towards each organ. Simulate these meridians by applying gentle pressure for three to five seconds, in clockwise and in an anticlockwise direction.
The fingers represent organs above your neck such as ears, nose, eyes, etc. Here is how you can practice hand reflexology on your fingers.
The palm represents body torso. It represents the stomach, liver and the other digestive systems of the body.
In this method, you can perform reflexology by turning your hand down. The back of the hand is a very gentle area. It is necessary to exercise caution before practicing reflexology here.
The above procedure has to be repeated on the other hand as well. After reflexology gets completed, follow the relaxation exercise mentioned in step 1. Drink a large glass of water after this procedure and keep drinking water for the rest of the day.
[Read: Benefits of Reflexology]
Here are some precautions to be followed before/while practicing reflexology.
This ancient technique is a simple and instant solution for pain relief. Hand reflexology, also known as hand massage, relaxes you by helping the immune system. Can you imagine treating a headache without a tablet or a pain relief balm? Hand reflexology can do it for you by just applying some pressure to certain hand reflexology points. Moreover one doesn’t have to go to a practitioner. You can practice hand reflexology at home, provided all steps are followed correctly and with caution.