Understanding More in Hand Reflexology

Understanding More in Hand Reflexology
Photo Credit prophylaxis ii image by Mykola Velychko from Fotolia.com

One of form of reflexology is performed on the hands. Some therapists choose to work on the hands of their clients instead of the feet, the most commonly treated body part in reflexology. There may be specific reasons why you may want to have your hands worked on instead of your feet.

History

Hand reflexology dates back thousands of years and has been used by many cultures over the years. Eunice Ingram brought reflexology to the Western culture 100 years ago, and it has since become a recognized form of alternative healing. According to World Wide Health, hand reflexology was often used as a back-up to foot reflexology, but it is now being used often by reflexologists.

Function

Applying pressure techniques and massage to the hands offers you the same benefits as working on the feet. The hands represent the body and reflexologists use a chart that maps out the body on each point in the hand. There are therapeutic uses for hand reflexology. It also enables you to have a sense of relaxation and a release of tension.

Benefits

By learning about the pressure points that are found in the hands, you can perform reflexology on your own without having to try and work on your feet. The convenience of hand reflexology is one of the benefits, though some people find it to be more relaxing than foot massage because they do not like to get their feet worked on, or they have a condition that makes it uncomfortable to work on the feet.

Effects

The ability to identify the key points in the hands that are related to an area of a body allows the reflexologist to find and work on areas that are of concern. Each hand is divided into zones and points that represent an area of the body. According to Pure and Simple Healing, the points are often smaller to work on than in the feet, but a qualified reflexologist can provide you with the same level of treatment.

Prevention/Solution

Before you begin studying hand reflexology or going to see a therapist, you do want to continue with any medical care you may be receiving. Reflexology is not intended as a cure for a condition but as a treatment that can help bring relief and relaxation. You can find that getting hand reflexology treatments may offer you relief and stress reduction.

References

Article reviewed by Helen Covington Last updated on: Sep 24, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments