Reflexology For the Beginners

Reflexologists use the term 'working' the reflex areas of the feet. 'Working' is used to release blockages and stimulate healing. Normally, the thumb and sometimes the index fingers are used for the therapy. The reflex points are small, so the movements must be small and controlled. Use different pressure, but place the emphasis on being 'firm', not hard or painful. When using the thumb or finger, bend it slightly and work into the point with the flat pad of the finger, so that the nails do not dig in.

Relaxation Technique

You should begin and end any treatment session with this technique, and return to it after working on any reflexes that are tender.

Hold either side of the foot, so that the heels of your palms rest on the soles of the feet, and your fingers are relaxed. Then use one hand to push the side of the foot forward, while pulling back the other side with the other hand. Continue this gentle back and forth movement, keeping up a fairly rapid, steady rhythm.

Thumb Technique

This is used to treat the soles and sides of the feet, with one hand wrapped around the toes, use the inside edge of the thumb of the other hand to work on the foot. (Wrap the fingers around the foot.)

Bend the working thumb's top joint just slightly and 'walk' forward by alternately bending and unbending the joint.

Press the thumb into the reflex point you want to treat. Then release some of the pressure, slide the thumb along like a caterpillar, stop and press again. Press on the precise area, keeping your movements slow and rhythmic.

Index Finger Technique

Use the index finger to work on the top and sides of the foot, once again pressing with the inside edge and making it 'creep' forward with the first joint slightly bent. Keep your pressure steady, so that the movement is smooth. Use your thumbs on the sale of the foot to provide leverage.

This technique is especially good for bony areas, such as the ankle and top of the foot.

Rotating

With the left hand supporting the foot, press your right thumb into the reflex point. Press and rotate your thumb into the reflex point, using your other fingers for support on the other side of the foot.

This technique is good for tender reflexes.

Flexing

Hold the toes with your left hand, while you press into the desired point with your right thumb. Gently, bend the foot backward and forward, so that the thumb presses and releases the point in a rhythmic fashion.

This is especially good for the solar plexus area.