Chinese reflexology is a type of traditional Chinese medicine, in which pressure points are stimulated to maintain a state of good health. These pressure points are usually located on the ears, hands, and feet, but other areas of the body may also be stimulated. The ancient Chinese believed that Chinese reflexology worked by opening pathways and allowing energy to flow freely throughout the body.
In Chinese reflexology, a reflexologist will stimulate certain areas of the body, known as pressure points. Either a constant pressure can be applied, or the area can be massaged, using a circular or rubbing motion. Sometimes, massage oils or creams may be used.
The most commonly known pressure points in Chinese reflexology are located on the hands and the feet. Small areas on each of these body parts are thought to be connected to other parts of the body via energy channels or pathways known as meridians. By massaging these certain areas, the state of health of the corresponding body part is supposed to improve.
Many Chinese reflexology practitioners believe that massaging or stimulating the tips of the fingers can help improve the health of the brain and head, including the sinuses. Massaging the sides of the hands, from the wrists to the tips of the thumbs, is thought to improve the general health of the spine, and possibly improve spinal problems. In addition, massaging the base of the thumb on the palm is believed to improve heart problems.
Like massaging the tips of the fingers, massaging the tips of the toes is also believed to improve problems in the head and the brain. Pressure applied to the front of the ankle can improve the health of the groin and reproductive organs, specifically the fallopian tubes. Similar to massaging the base of the thumbs on the hands, massaging the bottom of the foot near the big toe is believed to improve heart health.
The examples above are only a few of the pressure points that can be stimulated during a Chinese reflexology session. A reflexologist who has gone through Chinese reflexology training will often review a person's medical history, such as past and present ailments. After doing so, he can then concentrate on the specific pressure points that can help improve problem areas.
Chinese reflexology can also be practiced at home. There are many books on the subject that include detailed reflexology charts. These charts can also be found for free on the Internet.