Reflexology 101

What self-help reflexology techniques can I use?

While the majority of people tend to get professional reflexology sessions for their feet, the hands can be just as effective. In the self-help reflexology segment I did on the show, I explained what to look for on your palms to get to know your own body better. Here’s a recap for you to try for yourself. Of course, this is not a substitute for medical care; always be sure to consult with the appropriate health practitioner in case of any medical condition.

5 Secrets in the Palm of Your Hand

1. Digestion: Intestines Reflex 

I see a lot of clients with digestive issues, so this is one of my favorite self-help tips: the Million-Dollar Golf Ball Technique created by leading reflexologists Barbara and Kevin Kunz. This technique helps regulate and support your digestion. 

• Interlock fingers.
• Roll the ball around the lower area of the palms, or heels of the hands.
• This corresponds to the digestive reflexes for the small and large intestines.
• You might notice the area feels a little crunchy or bumpy if you have digestive issues.
• Do this daily for a minute once or twice a week for 2 weeks, and then as needed.

2. Insomnia: Pituitary Gland Reflex

This is a great technique if you have trouble sleeping. The pituitary gland is like the master conductor of the orchestra; it oversees the entire endocrine system, so this is a really important point to help the body balance itself.

• Find the middle of the whorl of your thumbprint. This is the reflex for the pituitary gland.
• Take the side of the nail of the other thumb, and press it into the center of the whorl of the thumbprint and hold.

• Good metaphors to let you know you found the right spot:
  • It might feel like a little metal ball under the skin.
  • Or, it might feel like you stuck a needle in your thumb. 
  • It might feel more sensitive if you’ve had trouble sleeping.
• You can do this in the middle of the night if you wake up and have trouble getting back to sleep.
• Do both thumbs, holding each for 45 seconds, 2 or 3 times a day.