reflexology and acupressure

I don't usually realize how long and hard winter is until the first spring-like day, which happens to be TODAY for me! And then I feel a sigh of RELIEF! I saw the first crocuses in bloom and other little green sproutings this morning, and it looks like some of the honeybees that I adore survived the winter! Happy day!!!

So, in celebration...here's something super fun!

Reflexology is a healing therapy that uses pressure on certain areas, or reflex points, primarily on the feet or hands, but sometimes ears, to effect other areas of the body. There is a brief history of reflexology on the National Reflexology Association's website. It's really easy to do to yourself, and it feels really good. If you can get someone to do it for you, it feels even better! In my experience, people seem to be more relaxed and rejuvenated after a twenty minute reflexology session, than an hour massage, but it probably depends both on the person and the therapist.

Positive energy and good intentions are key, of course.

.stolen from google images.

If you are ever in a situation where you feel it is best to keep your shoes on, you can think of this hand chart instead, and give yourself an energetic massage on whatever ails you.

.stolen from google images.

I know these images are pretty small, so hopefully your computer can zoom, or you can just search for larger images on your own if you can't read the labeling. Some reflexology charts vary from others, but they all show you a pretty similar general layout.

Another hands-on-self-help thing that I find extremely useful, is knowing specific acupressure points to press when I'm feeling specific emotions or sensations. You simply press the chosen area with gentle to firm pressure, whatever feels good to you, and take some deep breaths, try to relax and feel your circulation increase and your life force energy flow.

For example, Pericardium 6, corresponding with the Supplemental Fire element, is a point that often helps me with motion sickness, general nausea, or other stomach discomfort. It is located about two finger widths proximal to the anterior (the hairless side) of your wrist, in the center of your arm, right between two tendons.

Sorry for the poor quality of these images, they were taken with a phone.

Large Intestine 4* is helpful in relieving anxiety, panic attacks, and for distracting from pain being experienced anywhere else in the body. The Large Intestine meridian corresponds with the Metal element. *You should not press this point if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, but otherwise press away! It's located on the top of the hand in the muscle that forms the web between your thumb and index finger.

A few points that are great for relieving headaches are Bladder 1 (Jing Ming/Bright Eyes), Bladder 2, and Gall Bladder 1, all located around the eye. These points will all also help with many eye dysfunctions, tiredness, or irritation. The Bladder meridian corresponds with the Water element, and Gall Bladder corresponds with Wood, which is the element of SPRING!!!

I hope you enjoy poking and prodding yourself for therapeutic purposes, and try doing it outside because it's getting so lovely out there!

*thinking of peace and happiness, and sending it to Japan, but hoping for peace and happiness for all beings*