Introduction to traditional Chinese medicine, Qi and meridians
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic approach to health that considers energy balance as a key component of physical and mental well-being. Qi, or vital energy, flows through the body through channels called meridians. These meridians are linked to different organs and systems of the body, which allows Qi to nourish and regulate their functioning.
Acupuncture points are specific areas along the meridians where energy can be stimulated to improve the flow of Qi. Foot and palm reflexology is a therapeutic practice based on this idea using pressure points on the feet and hands to relieve various physical and emotional ailments.
Plantar reflexology: principle, potential benefits and contraindications
Foot reflexology involves massaging or applying pressure to specific areas of the feet to stimulate reflexology points associated with internal organs. This stimulation helps to unblock blocked energy flows, thus promoting the body’s natural self-healing.
This practice can help relieve several problems such as stress, muscle pain, digestive and circulatory disorders. However, foot reflexology is not recommended for people with serious heart conditions, fungal foot infections, or deep vein thrombosis.
Acupuncture points of the foot and their use to relieve different ailments
Here are some foot reflexology points commonly used to treat various problems:
- Headache : The point between the big toe and the second toe can help relieve headaches. Massage this area for about 5 minutes using moderate pressure.
- Demotivation: The point in the center of the pad under the big toe joint can be massaged for 3-5 minutes to boost mental energy and combat demotivation.
- Transit disorders: The point located on the sole of the foot, near the base of the first three metatarsals, can be massaged for about 10 minutes to promote good intestinal transit.
- Fatigue : The area in the middle of the arch of the foot corresponds to the adrenal glands. Massaging this area for about 5 minutes can help combat fatigue.
- Insomnia : The point slightly below and in front of the heel is linked to sleep. Applying gentle pressure to this point for about 5 minutes can help with insomnia.
- Mood swings : The point located on the inner edge of the heel, near the sole of the foot, is linked to emotions. Massaging this point for about 5 minutes can help regulate mood swings.
- Digestion problems: The point located in the center of the pad under the metatarsals can be massaged for approximately 10 minutes to promote good digestion.
- Generalized pain: The area located in the middle and slightly below the arch of the foot is the solar plexus. Massaging this area for about 5 minutes can help relieve various pains in the body.
- Water retention : The point located on the outer edge of the foot, between the base of the last two metatarsals, is linked to the kidneys. Massaging this spot for about 5 minutes can help reduce water retention.
- Anxiety : The point on the inside of the heel, near the ball of the foot, is related to the heart. Applying gentle pressure to this point for about 5 minutes can help relieve anxiety and promote a feeling of inner peace.
Palmar reflexology: principle and important points
Much like foot reflexology, palmar reflexology also involves massaging or applying pressure to specific areas of the hands to stimulate reflexology points associated with internal organs. Here are some key points:
- Stress : The point in the center of the palm can be massaged for about 5 minutes to relieve stress.
- Muscle aches : The point at the base of the thumb can be massaged for about 5 minutes to help relax the muscles and relieve pain.
- Digestive disorders : The point between the index and middle fingers, near their base, is linked to the digestive system. Massaging this point for about 5 minutes can help improve digestion.
Conclusion
Foot and palmar reflexology is a therapeutic practice based on traditional Chinese medicine that aims to stimulate acupuncture points in the foot and hand to promote energy balance in the body. This holistic approach allows you to treat various physical and emotional ailments by working on these specific areas. However, it is important to consult a qualified professional before using this method as a primary or complementary treatment.
