DIY Reflexology

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Stress relief and relaxation come with a variety of techniques and tips. Reflexology is an ancient technique that is based on the belief that pressure points in the hands and feet are connected to different parts and organs of our bodies. Application of pressure on these points releases endorphins and suppresses pain impulses in the brain. Applying appropriate pressure in these points is said to relieve stress, ease pain and even help induce childbirth. With this Do-It-Yourself guide, try out a few pressure points to relieve your latest stresses.

First:
Find your favourite bath salts or oils, moisturiser and a towel. Play some relaxing music or even sit down in front of the TV for some you time. Dim the lights, light some candles, lock the door to keep the kids out. Whatever you need to do to encourage relaxation is up to you.

Feet:
Fill the tub with warm water mixed with bath salts or oils and soak your tired feet. This step will not only soften the skin but it will feel wonderfully therapeutic. Take your time with this step!

Next, use your favourite moisturiser and lather your feet in it. Use this guide to apply pressure to the areas you would like to focus on. Using small circular patterns or inching your way along your foot, apply pressure and focus on one area at a time. Focus on your toes to ease headaches. Close to the arch you’ll find a pressure point for the stomach, so try applying pressure here if you are feeling nauseous.

Hands:
The same massage techniques are used for your hands. Soak and moisturise (for your added comfort, though it’s not necessary) and use your thumb and forefinger to start applying pressure along your fingers on the opposite hand.

Apply pressure to the tips of your fingers if your sinuses are aching or causing headaches. If you are experiencing hip or shoulder pain, try the outside of your hands directly above the wrist and below the fingers.

There are pressure points all over our bodies. If you like the results from your DIY reflexology, keep it up and explore stress-relieving pressure points behind your ears or on your face. Ladies, ease those dreaded cramps by exploring pressure points on the lower back and abdomen. Or, seek out a professional who will accurately and correctly take you even further with reflexology.

Give it a go! Whether you master it or not, DIY reflexology will at least give your aching feet and hands some well-deserved attention.

Have you tried reflexology? If so then tell us all about it in the comments section below.

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