Reflexology Massage Techniques
Reflexology techniques are easy to learn and have healing value, according to an article by Naomi Coleman on the Mail Online website. You can apply reflexology techniques on your hands by yourself, while foot treatments may need to be applied by another person. The article recommends starting a hand reflexology treatment on the right hand. Reflexology treatments may help trigger energy that is known as "chi" so that it flows correctly in your body for optimal health, according to Coleman.
Slide and Press
Slide and Press is a reflexology massage technique for the feet, according to the Natural Holistic Heath website. Place both of your thumbs on the heeal of the foot you are working, and point your thumb toward the toes. Gently massage the foot by applying alternating pressure with each thumb as you work your way up the length of the foot to the toes.
Creeping
Creeping is reflexology technique for the hands, according to Colman. Bend your thumb and press the flat pad of your thumb against the hand you are massaging. Then lift your thumb, inch forward and press down again as if you are pressing a sequence of pins into a pin cushion. Work the area by slowly and methodically inching forward with your thumb like a caterpillar.
Feather Touch
Instruction material published by the Ontario College of Reflexology indicates that the Feather Touch is a reflexology technique for the feet. Stroke the surface of the foot you are working with both of your hands while barely touching the skin. Start at the back of the foot and stroke upward from the bottom of the heel toward the toes. Stroke along the top and bottom surface of the foot you are working.
Back-Forth
According to the Natural Holistic Health website, a Back-Forth technique can help relax the foot. Face the bottom on the foot you are working. Place the palms of your hands on each side of the foot and curl your fingers around the foot. Keep your hands relaxed and gently push the foot forward with your left hand while pulling the foot back with your right hand. Alternate pushing and pulling in opposite directions about five times in each direction.
Rotating
Use the Rotating technique to stimulate the kidney and adrenal reflex points on the soft fleshy area between the left thumb and index finger, advises Coleman. Press the flat part of your thumb on the reflex point. Rotate the flat part of your thumb toward your body, or toward the patient's body if you are working on someone, with a small but firm movement. Continue applying pressure for several seconds before removing your thumb.
