146 complete self-help hand sequenceStep 1
Working the fingers and the thumb
Those reflex areas worked in this sequence on the fingers  
and thumb include many whose function it is to direct the 
activities of the body, such as the brain, thyroid, parathyroid, 
and pituitary gland. In addition to these, you will work reflex 
areas corresponding to the head, brain, and sinuses; and  
jaw, teeth, and gums. At the conclusion of the sequence,  
take the time to carry out a series of desserts that are aimed 
at creating relaxation, such as the finger side-to-side and  
the walk-down/pull-against techniques. 1  Let the thumb rest against the 
thumb of the working hand. Press the index finger’s tip on to the 
pituitary  area in the center of the 
thumb. Press repeatedly, creating an 
on-off pressure. 2Holding the thumb steady 
against the working hand’s 
knuckles, use the finger-walking 
technique to make a series of 
passes across the thumb to work 
the following reflex areas: head , 
brain , sinus ; jaw, teeth , 
gums ; neck , thyroid , and 
parathyroid .AreAs worked
  Head & brain   control and 
coordinate all activity in the 
body, so a key part of a 
reflexology session.   Pituitary  this helps regulate  
all endocrine activity such as 
growth and metabolism.    sinus   Reflexology application 
technique aims to help keep 
these air-filled cavities clear.   Neck  this is a part of the body 
that is highly prone to tension, 
so it may respond well to 
reflexology.   Thyroid & parathyroid glands  
these glands help to regulate 
the energy levels in the body, 
metabolism, growth and blood 
calcium levels. You apply 
pressure to these reflex areas to 
enhance the functioning of 
these glands.desserts     finger-pull (p122) • finger side-to-side (p123) • Walk-down/
pull-against (p123) • nail-buffing (p144) • palm-mover (p124)  
• palm-counter-mover (p125) • the squeeze (p145)  step 1 1474Thumb-walk over the  
same reflex areas on the 
middle finger.5Next work on the ring finger 
and thumb-walk across the 
reflex areas as before.6Finally, apply the same 
technique to the reflex areas 
on the little finger. desserts    finger side-to-side (p123) • Walk-down/pull-against (p123) 3Let the hand rest, palm upward, on the working hand. Use the thumb-walking technique to make a number of 
passes across the whole index finger, working the head , neck , 
brain , and sinus  areas. Focus especially on the finger joint areas.HANd orie NTAT ioN
LeFT HANd 
1 head, brain, and sinuses    
2 neck
3 pituitary  gland  
4 thyroid  and parathyroid  glands413
2
see p127 for further informationStep 2
Working the thumb and webbing
Work in this sequence stimulates and enhances the 
functioning of the adrenal glands, pancreas, stomach, upper 
back, and kidneys−organs responsible for energy levels, 
digestion, and fluid processing. As you work on this fleshy 
part of the hand, take note of any nail marks that result from 
your application technique, and adjust it if necessary to 
lessen the impact.AreAs worked
	diaphragm 	Reflexology	aims	 	
	 to	enhance	the	performance	of	 	
	 this	muscle,	which	is	involved	in	 	
	 respiration	and	the	other	 	
	 involuntary	functions. 	Upper back Working	these	 	
	 reflex	areas	may	help	to	ease	 	
	 tension	in	the	upper	shoulders	 	
	 and	torso. 	Adrenal gland 		Working	these	 	
	 may	help	regulate	levels	of	 	
	 adrenaline. 	stomach 	Aim	to	assist	digestion	 	
	 by	targeting	this	reflex	area. 	kidney Strain	fluid	in	the	blood	 	
	 for	excretion	or	absorption. 	Pancreas This	organ	is	 	
	 responsible	for	stabilizing	blood	 	
	 glucose	levels. 1Locate the adrenal gland  
reflex area by placing the tip of 
the index finger in the center of the 
fleshy palm, midway along the long 
bone below the thumb: sensitivity 
will indicate that you’ve found the 
reflex area. Press repeatedly. 2Thumb-walk through the 
pancreas  reflex area with 
the working thumb. 148comple Te	Self-help 	hAnd	Sequence4To work the diaphragm , 
upper back , and kidney  
reflex areas, apply the thumb- 
walking technique in successive 
passes throughout the webbing 
and into the body of the hand.4
5Finish by working more thoroughly 
on the kidney  reflex area: position 
the thumb and fingertips of the 
working hand in opposition to each 
other in the webbing. Press and 
release, moving around to find 
the most sensitive area. Press, adjusting 
pressure according 
to comfort level.1
3HAnd orient Ation
2
LeFt HAnd 
1 adrenal  gland		3 pancreas
2 stomach  4  kidneys
5 diaphragm  6 upper back
See	p129	for	further	information5
6
desserts 			The	squeeze	( p145)	•	finger-pull	( p142)	
STep	21493Still using the thumb- 
walking technique, apply a 
series of passes through the 
stomach  reflex area with the 
thumb of the working hand.150 complete self-help hand sequenceStep 3
Working the upper palm  
The sequence for this part of the palm targets reflex 
areas that correspond to the chest, heart, and lungs; 
the shoulders and upper back; and the eyes 
and ears (including the structures of the 
inner ear). If you have tension or 
discomfort in any of these areas, 
focus on the corresponding reflex 
areas as you work through the 
movements shown here. 1Using the tip of the index 
finger, finger-walk across the 
heart  reflex area, moving in the 
direction shown by the arrow. 2Starting at the diaphragm  
reflex area, thumb-walk in 
successive passes across the palm, 
through the chest , lung , and 
upper back  reflex areas. 3Move across to the 
shoulder  reflex area. Thumb-walk up through this area, 
toward the little finger, in a series 
of successive passes. AreAs worked
  Inner ear   Work on this reflex 
area can help the organs of the 
inner ear regulate balance.   ears  Reflexology techniques 
may help ease an earache or the 
buzzing of tinnitus.   eyes  applying reflexology may 
help soothe sore eyes.   shoulders  Working these reflex 
areas may ease tension.   Heart  Working this reflex area 
may help keep the heart 
functioning well.   Upper back  applying 
techniques to these reflex areas 
may ease upper torso tension.   Chest & lungs   Reflexology 
work on these reflex areas helps 
keep the chest and lungs open. step 3 1514To work the eye reflex 
area, use your working 
thumb and index finger 
gently to pinch the webbing 
between the index and ring 
fingers. Repeat several times. 36
24
1
desserts    palm-mover (p124) • palm-counter-mover (p125) 5Work the inner ear  reflex area by pinching 
the webbing that lies between the middle and 
ring fingers. Repeat this action several times.6Move on to the ear reflex area, between the 
ring and little fingers, and gently pinch the 
webbing there. Repeat several times. 5
LeFT HANd 
1 heart
2 shoulder
3  chest, lung,  
and upper backHANd or IeNTATI oN
see p131 for further information4 ear
5 inner ear 
6  eyeStep 4
Work ing the center  
and he el of the palm  
The reflex areas in the central and lower 
palm correspond to the stomach, colon, and 
small intestine. This region of the hand also 
includes part of the upper back reflex area. The other reflex area covered is the one for 
the arm, on the outer edge below the little 
finger. As you work through the palm, try 
not to dig your thumbnail into the skin. 1Thumb-walk up through the 
stomach  reflex area, ending in 
the diaphragm  area. As you do so, 
you will also be working part of 
the upper back  reflex area. 2Continue making successive thumb-walking 
passes with the right thumb across the 
stomach  and upper back  reflex areas. AreAs worked
  diaphragm   Apply reflexology 
to aid the function of this 
muscle, involved in respiration.   stomach  Targeting this reflex 
area may assist digestion.   Upper back  Working these 
reflex areas may help relieve 
tension in the upper torso.   Colon   Apply reflexology to this 
area to help the colon transport 
waste products and expel them 
in the form of fecal matter.   Arms   Can become stiff, but 
may respond well to reflexology.   small intestine   Working this 
reflex area may assist food 
breakdown. 152 Comple Te self-help h And sequen Ce3Move over to the arm reflex 
area. Press the fleshy outer 
edge of the hand between your 
working thumb and index finger. Continue up the hand.4To work the colon  and 
small intestine  reflex 
areas, make a series of thumb-
walking passes up over all 
segments of the areas. 5Finish this sequence by thumb-walking through 
the colon  and small intestine  reflex areas 
again, working diagonally across the palm of the 
hand and making successive passes.2
314
desserts       Relax your entire hand by applying the finger-pull technique 
to the thumb and each finger (see p122). sTep 4 153HAnd orient Ation
left HAnd
1 stomach
2 colon3 small  intestine
4 arm
see p133 for further informationStep 5
Working the to ps of the fingers  
and the side of t he thumb  
To begin this sequence, you work the reflex area that 
corresponds to the spine, which includes the related nerves 
and muscles. Also worked are reflex areas corresponding to 
the head and neck, including those for the sinuses, teeth, 
gum, and jaw. In addition, work in this sequence relaxes the 
hand itself. If you encounter sensitivity in any area, thumb-
walk on that place or apply technique to a joint. 1To work the spine  reflex 
area, place your thumb on 
the tailbone  reflex area, just 
above the wrist, and thumb-walk 
up the bony edge of the hand.2Reposition your working 
hand to continue through the 
spine  reflex area. Thumb-walk up 
the thumb, through the reflex area 
for the midback (between the 
shoulder blades). Make several 
passes over the joint at the base  
of the thumb. 3Adjust the position of your 
working hand, then thumb-
walk through the neck  reflex area 
on the thumb, in the direction 
shown by the arrow.AreAs worked
  spine   To benefit this area, 
work up the inside of the hand.   Neck  Prone to tension, but may 
respond well to reflexology.   Head & brain  Work on these 
reflex areas, which coordinate 
and control the body’s activities, 
is a key part of reflexology.   sinuses  Work on this area can 
help keep the sinuses clear.   Teeth, gums, jaw  Reflexology 
can help these structures break 
down food in the mouth. 154 com PleTe self-hel P hand sequence4To work the 
head , brain , 
sinus , neck , teeth , 
gum, and jaw reflex areas, 
thumb-walk across the top of 
the thumb, making several 
successive passes. 5Move on to the index finger 
to work the next segment of 
these reflex areas. Thumb-walk 
across the top surface of the finger, 
making a series of passes.6Repeat the thumb-walking 
action on the middle finger, 
making a series of passes across 
the top surface.7Complete this sequence by 
working across the ring 
finger and then the little finger.HAN d orie NTAT ioN
543
21
sTeP 5 155desserts    Improve circulation to the tips of your fingers with the nail-buffing 
technique, moving the nails of both hands briskly over the nails of the  
other hand (p144).lefT HANd
1 spine
2 tailbone
3  head, brain,  
and sinuses4 neck 
5  teeth, gums,  
and jaw
see p135 for further informationrunning headStep 6
Working the top of the hand  
This sequence works the bony top of the hand, which 
corresponds to the musculoskeletal structure of the upper 
and lower body, as well as to organs of reproduction, 
respiration, and fluid elimination. When you have completed 
this sequence, which prompts an overall relaxation effect, 
you will have worked your way through all the reflex areas 
of one hand. Finish with a series of desserts. 1Rest the flats of your fingers alongside the long bone below the 
index finger. Press your fingertips several times into this part of 
the lung , chest , breast , and upper back  reflex areas. Move on, resting 
your fingertips between the index and middle finger and repeat the 
technique, pressing several times.2Reposition your fingers 
between the middle and ring 
fingers and press as before. Repeat 
the technique between the ring and 
little fingers. AreAs worked
  Lung   Lorem ipsum text to 
come dolorum lorem.Feum dunt 
nonullam auguercip fgdfjfdf.   Upper back  Lorem ipsum text 
to come dolorum lorem.Feum 
dunt nonullam auguercip  
  Chest  Lorem ipsum text to 
come dolorum lorem.Feum dunt 
nonullam auguercip nfgdfga.   Breast  Lorem ipsum text to 
come dolorum lorem.Feum dunt 
nonullam auguercip fddfhkgf
  Fallopian tubes  Lorem ipsum 
text to come dolorum lorem. Feum dunt nonullam auguercip 
  Lower back   Lorem ipsum text 
to come dolorum lorem.Feum 
dunt nonullam auguercip.   Groin   Lorem ipsum text to 
come dolorum lorem asfg.   ovary/testicle   Lorem ipsum 
text to come dolorum lore
  Uterus/Prostate   Lorem ipsum 
text to come dolorum lorem. 156 running head3Now use all four fingers  
to finger walk across the 
lower back  reflex area. Repeat 
several times. 4Position your right thumb 
on the wrist and thumb 
walk through the lymph 
gland , groin , and fallopian 
tube reflex areas across the 
wrist.5Pinpoint the ovary /
testicle  reflex area with the 
index finger. Rotate the hand in a 
clockwise, then counterclockwise 
direction several times. 1
6Locate the 
uterus /
prostate  reflex  
area and rotate the 
hand repeatedly in 
a clockwise and 
then in a counter-
clockwise direction.2
5
46
157desserts    end your session by reapplying a series of desserts ( p. 00–00 ) LeFt HAnd
1 upper back, lung, and breast
2 upper back  3 lower  back 
4 lymph  glands , fallopian  tubes,  
    and groin  
5 ovary /testicle   6 uterus /prostate
See p. 00 for further information3HAnd orient Ation158 Complete self-help hand sequen CeStep 7
Working the right hand
Now that you’ve completed the workout on the left hand, it’s time to 
move onto the right hand. The following pages summarize the sequence 
for a right-hand workout. Once you have become familiar with the way 
to apply techniques to each part of the hand, you can refer to this 
summary for an at-a-glance reminder of each sequence. step 1
walk-down/pull-against adrenal gland
finger-pull heartpalm-mover palm- Counter-mover the squeeze
working the fingers and  
the thumb
step 2
working the thumb  
and webbingdesserts side-to-side
desserts the squeeze step 3
working the upper palmdesserts
Before beginning the 
sequence, check the hand for 
cuts, bruises, and any other 
area to be avoided during  
the workout.step 7 159finger-pull finger side-to-side walk-down/pull-against nail- Buffing
pituitary glandneCk, head, Brain, sinus, jaws, 
gums, thyroid & parathyroidneCk, head, Brain & sinus
kidney & upper BaCk kidney & upper BaCk kidney
Chest, lung & upper BaCk eye inner earpanCreasrepeat technique on each digitneCk, head, Brain & sinus
shoulderear palm- Counter-mover
Colon & small intestine
lung, Chest, Breast  
& upper BaCklung, Chest, Breast  
& upper BaCk
finger-pull finger side-to-side walk-down/pull-againststep 6
working the top of the handspine
lower BaCkdesserts finger-pull step 5
working the tops of the 
fingers and the side of  
the thumbdesserts palm-mover step 4
working the center and heel 
of the palm
desserts
Bring your session to an end by 
reapplying a series of desserts.repeat technique 
below each finger
160 Complete self-help hand sequen Celiver & gall Bladder liver & gall Bladder Colon & small intestine
neCk, head, Brain, sinus,
teeth, gums & jawneCk, head, Brain, sinus,
teeth, gums & jaw
lymph glands, groin  
& fallopian tu Bes
palm-mover nail- Buffing palm- Counter-mover the squeezeuterus/prostate gland ovary/testi CleneCk, head, Brain, sinus,
teeth, gums & jawspine
desserts the squeezearm
step 7 161repeat technique on each digit162 reflexology techniquesUsing self-help foot tools
Using a foot roller or golf ball for self-help reflexology makes technique 
application easy and aids in concentrating pressure to targeted reflex areas. Many people have successfully achieved their health goals by using such tools. Especially for those new to reflexology, self-help tools provide an easy-to-learn 
way of applying reflexology techniques. In addition, for those with limited hand 
strength, tools help exert the pressure required to get results. Working reflex areas with a foot roller has many 
advantages. It is easy to exert pressure. Your 
hands are free to do other work such as typing 
on a keyboard, holding a book or snack. Also, if 
it is not easy for you to reach your feet to apply 
reflexology with your hands, the foot roller 
provides a convenient self-help alternative. Station foot rollers at several locations for easy 
access whenever you can spare a minute: under the desk, at the breakfast table, by your arm 
chair. Be careful not to leave the foot roller where 
you might trip over it. Similarly, golf balls can be 
stationed in a number of different locations: a 
car glove compartment, at your desk, by your 
favorite easy chair, in your briefcase or hand bag. If you don’t play golf yourself, borrow a ball 
from a friend; otherwise they are easily and 
inexpensively available. hAnD AnD foot self-helP tools come in 
various shapes and sizes. shown here are 
some cylindrical foot rollers and a spherical 
roller for use on the hands or feet.using self-hel P foot tools 1631To work the head , brain,  and sinus  reflex 
areas, start by resting your foot on the foot-
roller. Roll your toes over the foot-roller. Angle your 
foot to the inside to work the big toe and to the 
outside to work the little toe. 2To more thoroughly work the head , brain,  
and sinus reflex areas, rest the heel of your 
other foot on top of your toes. Now press down with 
your heel as you roll the roller. The heel on top of 
your toes will help you direct your efforts to work 
each toe, as well as maintain control of the foot roller. 1Rest the ball of your foot on 
the roller and roll it over the 
chest,  lung , breast,  and upper 
back  reflex areas.2Now angle your foot to the 
outside and roll through the 
shoulder  reflex area. Then angle 
it to the inside and roll through 
the area for the part of the spine  
between the shoulder blades.3Try resting your other foot 
on top of the foot being 
worked. This will enable you to 
apply a heavier pressure, direct 
your efforts more accurately, and 
control the foot roller more easily.Working the toes
Working the b All of the footUsing the foot roller
Use your foot roller on a carpet, not a smooth 
surface, to prevent it from slipping. However, 
avoid shag or deep pile carpets because they will 
make it difficult for the roller to move. Work all areas of your foot by angling it to the inside and 
outside as well as placing it flat on the roller. Choose a level of pressure according to your 
preference and level of comfort.164164 reflexology techniques1Rest your foot on the roller with your foot angled 
to the inside of the upper arch. Now move the 
roller through the midback  reflex area.2Next, position the foot roller in the center of  
the upper arch of your foot. Move the roller 
through the liver  and gallbladder  reflex areas.Working the upper arch
3Continue by angling your foot to the outside of 
the upper arch. Roll the foot roller through the 
arm and elbow  reflex areas. 4Now cross one leg over the other and roll the 
foot roller. This allows you to exert more 
pressure on the area of your choice and gives you 
better control of the foot roller.165 using self-help foot tools 1651Angle your foot to the inside 
edge of your heel and move 
the roller back and forth over the 
tailbone  reflex area. You may 
need to cross one leg over the other 
to maintain control of the roller.2Now position the foot roller 
in the center of the heel and 
move it back and forth to stimulate 
the reflex areas corresponding to the 
lower back, sigmoid colon,  
and reproductive  organs.3Consider whether crossing 
one leg over the other to 
exert pressure on the heel may  
be more convenient. Stand up  
and take a few steps to note the 
difference in feeling between  
your two feet. Then go on to  
work the other foot.Working the heelWorking the lo Wer arch
1First, angle your foot to the 
inside edge of the lower arch 
and roll the roller back and forth  
to stimulate the semi-circular 
bladder  reflex area and part of 
the lower back  reflex area.2Now center the lower arch of 
your foot on the roller and 
move it over the reflex areas that 
correspond to the transverse  
colon  and small intestine .3Go on to angle your foot to 
the outside edge of the lower 
arch and move the roller over the 
ascending  colon  reflex area. (On the left foot, this would be the 
descending colon  reflex area. )166 reflexology techniques1First, position your foot on a soft, but firm 
surface. Cup the golf ball in the palm of your 
hand. Then wrap your hand around the big toe, 
trapping the golf ball between your palm and the 
edge of your big toe. Now roll the golf ball all over 
the brain stem  and neck  reflex areas. 2Next, as you cup the golf ball in your 
palm, roll it over the reflex area that 
represents the portion of the spine between 
the shoulder blades. Using a golf ball
The ordinary golf ball, an everyday object that might be 
found in the home already, provides an easy way to apply 
reflexology techniques to the reflex areas of the head, brain, 
brain stem, and segments of the spine.using self-help foot tools 1673Keeping the golf ball cupped in your palm, 
move on to reposition the golf ball to the 
midback  reflex area. Roll the golf ball, making 
several passes through the area.4Cup the golf ball in your palm and rest it on the 
fleshy inner edge of the heel. Rest your fingertips 
on the outside edge of the heel. Roll the golf ball 
through the lower back  and bladder  reflex areas. 5Reposition the golf ball lower down on the 
inside edge of the heel. Now roll the golf ball 
throughout the tailbone  reflex area.6Hold your big toe in place with your thumb. Cup the golf ball in your palm and place it on 
the fleshy area of the big toe, the head  and brain  
reflex areas. Roll the golf ball throughout the big toe.168 techniquesUsing self-help hand tools
To reach deep areas, reflexology relies on  strength or mobility during 
technique application, and not everyone is able to effect this in self-help 
techniques. However, using golf balls and other tools can provide an effective 
alternative. A golf ball is a good, cheap option, but you may prefer a rubber 
ball’s softer surface. Round and cylindrical rubber pet toys also make great tools. using health balls
Used in pairs, health balls (see left) are typically 
made of metal or smooth, polished rock. Throughout the Far East, where reflexology is 
common practice, health balls are easily available. Supplementing your hand reflexology routines 
with the use of health balls several times a week 
can help to build flexibility in the hands, 
strengthen muscles, and develop hand 
awareness. To use, hold both balls in 
one hand, and using the digits of the same 
hand, move them in a clockwise or counter-
clockwise direction. If you do not have health 
balls, try using golf balls instead. However, you 
may find that because health balls are heavier, this 
makes them more suitable for exercise. here are some specialist  reflexology self-help tools. if you are not able to buy these, an ordinary rubber ball 
can work just as well. chinese 
health 
ballsspiky ball
rubber 
ballfoot 
rollerfinger 
rollermoving health balls  around the hand is a similar 
action to drumming the fingers on a flat surface (see 
below). strike first with the little finger, then the other 
digits, one after the other.using self-help hand tools 1691Cup the ball in your right 
hand, pressing with the 
fingers to create pressure and  
to keep the ball in place.Cupping golf balls
Being precise is not the most important aspect of this technique. The rolling action is good for reaching several reflex areas on 
the palm at once. Before starting, remember not to use self-help 
tools on another; these exercises are for self-help only. 2Roll the ball around your left 
palm. Don’t worry too much 
about where you apply the 
pressure. By rolling around  
the palm, you will cover a 
variety of reflex areas. Pressing  
golf balls
This lets you reach reflex 
areas in the heels of both 
hands. Increase pressure by 
tightening your grip.Gripping golf balls
Use this to work the reflex areas on and around 
the fingers and thumbs. Do not overwork the 
areas by exerting too much pressure. Use the index and middle fingers  of the right hand to 
hold the ball. Rest it on the left thumb, as shown, 
wrapping the right thumb around the top of the hand. Interlace the fingers  of both 
hands, trapping the ball between 
the heels of the hands. Roll the 
ball around, tightening or 
loosening your grasp to make 
adjustments to the pressure.170 complete golf-ball self-help sequenceStep 1
Working the fingers and the thumb  
In this sequence the reflex areas worked correspond to the 
head, neck, and part of the upper body. The fingers reflect 
the head, brain, and sinuses; neck; eyes, ears, and inner ear. The thumb reflects the head, brain, and sinuses (first 
segment), neck, thyroid, and parathyroid (second segment), 
solar plexus and heart reflex areas (the base). 1From the base of the thumb, roll the  
golf ball repeatedly through the heart   
reflex area. Reposition the ball and roll  
it over the thumb, working the neck , 
thyroid , parathyroid , head ,  
brain , and sinus  reflex areas  
in successive passes. learning tip
It may take a little while to get 
used to carrying out reflexology 
work with a golf ball, so, while you 
are learning, don’t worry too much 
about targeting the reflex area 
precisely. be alert for the impact 
that the golf ball may well have on 
your hand; you will become aware 
that you’ve gone too far if your 
hand becomes overly sensitive  
to the touch. 2Move on to the index finger to continue 
working these reflex areas. Cup the golf ball and 
roll it over the index finger in successive passes until 
you have covered the length of the finger. 3Go on to each finger in 
turn, using the same 
technique as before.steps 1 & 2 171Step 2
Working the thumb
This sequence works areas that correspond 
to organs responsible for energy and 
digestion−the adrenal glands, pancreas, 
and part of the stomach, liver, and 
intestines. The technique is unique in  
that it is capable of reaching the 
palm’s deep reflex areas and 
stimulating the functioning 
of vital organs. However, 
be aware of the potential 
for overwork. 1Interlace the fingers of the 
hands, and hold the golf ball 
securely between the heels of the 
hands, as shown. 2While you roll the golf ball 
throughout this area of  
the palm, below the thumb, you 
are working the adrenal gland , 
stomach , pancreas , and 
kidney  reflex areas of both hands.3As you roll the golf ball, 
vary the pressure on the 
reflex areas by tightening or 
loosening your grasp on it. complete golf-ball self-help sequenceStep 3
Working the upper palm  
In this sequence the reflex areas that are worked correspond 
to the upper back, shoulders, lungs, chest, and breast. Working on the upper palm helps to relax the upper 
musculoskeletal structure, relieving pain as well as 
stimulating and enhancing functions of the upper body. 1Position the golf ball to 
rest in your upper 
palm, below the little finger. Roll the ball around the area 
several times, working the 
shoulder reflex area. Reposition the ball below the 
ring finger and roll it through 
this part of the upper palm, 
working the heart , upper 
back , chest , lung , and 
breast  reflex areas. 2Carry on working each part of the 
upper palm, successively working 
through the heart , upper back , chest , 
lung , and breast  reflex areas.learning tip
the leverage action plays an 
important role in applying these 
techniques. establish leverage by 
using your fingers to work in opposition to the golf ball. tighten 
your grip to intensify the pressure 
exerted by the golf ball. Reposition 
your fingers when you are moving 
on to a new area. 172 steps 3 & 41Place the golf ball in the 
center of the palm and roll it 
around the whole area, working 
the reflex areas of the upper 
back , stomach , spleen , 
liver , and gallbladder . 2Now, press the golf ball 
between the heels of the 
hands and roll it throughout the 
reflex areas for the colon , small 
intestine , and lower back . 173Step 4
Working the center  
and heel of the palm  
The reflex areas worked in this sequence correspond to 
organs of the body’s digestive system−the stomach 
and spleen (left hand), liver and gallbladder (right 
hand), colon, and small intestines−stimulating 
and enhancing their function. Reflex areas corresponding to 
the back and hips are also 
worked, helping to create 
relaxation and body awareness.complete golf-ball self-help sequenceStep 5
Working the side of the thumb  
The reflex areas worked in this sequence are 
associated with the spine, including the 
bony structure, the muscles surrounding 
it, the spinal cord (encased by the 
vertebrae), and the nerves coming from 
it. This sequence serves to enhance the 
regulatory functioning of the brain 
stem and spinal nerves, as well as 
helping to relax the muscular tension 
in the spine. 1Place the golf ball at the neck  reflex 
area on the thumb, as shown. Roll 
the ball around, making several passes 
through the neck reflex area. 2Now move on to work the whole length of the 
bony edge of the thumb, totally covering the 
spine  reflex area. 1743Reposition the hand and golf ball, and make 
several passes through each part of the thumb, 
down to the tailbone  reflex area near the wrist. steps 5 & 61Place the golf ball on the 
thumbnail and roll it throughout 
the head , brain , and sinus  reflex 
area, making several passes. 2Continue to work on 
each fingernail in turn, 
making successive passes 
throughout the reflex areas. learning tip
notice how you should hold the 
golf ball. When you are working 
the thumbnail, the ball rests 
between the palm of the hand 
(below the thumb) and the nail; 
the thumb is braced against the 
fingers. When you are working the 
fingernails, the ball is held by the 
index and middle fingers of the 
working hand and the working 
thumb serves as a brace for the 
finger you are working. 175Step 6
Working the fingernails  
You may discover that your fingernails are 
highly sensitive to pressure, so try to work 
lightly to begin with. To work the area 
thoroughly, roll the ball over the whole  
nail. Try out working below the nail, too, 
but be alert to any potential sensitivity. Reflex areas in the sequence include those 
that correspond to the head, face, sinuses, 
and brain; the work will 
enhance brain functioning 
and provide relaxation. 176 complete golf-ball self-help hand sequenceStep 7
Working the right hand 
As you’ve been working through the golf-ball sequences on the left 
hand, you will also have worked many areas on the right hand, such 
as those in the palm. Now it’s time to do the full sequence on the right 
hand, using your left hand as the working hand. These pages show the 
whole sequence, and also provide a useful summary.desserts
before starting the sequence, 
check the hand for any cuts, 
bruises, and other areas that 
you might need to avoid  
during the workout. step 1
adrenal gland shoulder
neck spine tailbonepalm-mover palm-counter-mover the squeeze
Working the fingers and  
the thumb
stomach, pancreas & kidney
step 5
Working the side of the thumbstep 3
Working the upper palmstep 7 177finger-pull finger side-to-side Walk-do Wn/pull-against nail-buffing
heartneck, thyroid & parathyroid 
glands, head, brain & sinusneck, thyroid & parathyroid 
glands, head, brain, & sinus
heart, upper back, chest,  
lung & breastupper back, stomach, spleen, 
liver & gallbladdercolon, small intestine  
& lo Wer back
head, brain & sinuses head, brain & sinusesstep 2
Working the thumb
step 4
Working the center and heel  
of the palm
step 6
Working the fingernailsdesserts
end with a series of desserts
repeat technique on each digitrepeat technique on each digit178 reflexology techniquesFoot relaxation exercises
The actions and interactions between muscles, tendons, and ligaments 
make a footstep possible, but these areas seldom experience their 
full range of movement during the ordinary activities of a 
normal day. To break up your routine and strengthen 
the foot’s structures, try the following exercises. 1Try the Achilles tendon 
stretch  to extend the 
main tendon. Stand opposite a 
wall and place your hands on 
the wall at the level of your 
shoulders and rest your head near 
to them. Then bend one knee and 
place the other leg directly 
behind you. As you remain 
in this position for 15–30 
seconds, keep your heel on 
the ground. You should 
feel a pull in your calf, 
which is where the Achilles 
tendon is located. Now 
change legs and stretch the 
other calf.2The side-to-side rock recreates 
the seldom-experienced side-
to-side foot movement. To practice, 
stand with your knees a shoulder-
width apart, and bend your knees 
slightly. Now rock gently from side 
to side. This exercise is particularly 
good if your second toes are longer 
than your big toes or you have to 
stand for long periods during the 
day, as it relieves tension in the 
center of the foot.foot relaxation exercises 1793 You can do toe stretches while seated. Rest your 
foot on your knee, grasp your big toe, pulling it 
gently and slowly to stretch the muscles on the bottom 
of the foot. Repeat on all the toes of both feet. 4Toe raises strengthen the muscles in the bottoms 
of the feet and the calf. While standing, grasp the 
back of a chair for balance. Rise onto the balls of the 
feet, pause, then lower. Repeat several times. 5While you are standing or sitting, practice the 
toe press by pressing down on the floor with 
your toes, to strengthen the muscles of the toes. Visualize pressing your toes down so that they are 
completely flat on the floor.6The ankle rotation stretches and loosens the 
muscles of the feet, and improves circulation to 
the ankles. First circle the foot clockwise, several times, 
then repeat the circle in a counterclockwise direction 
several times. As you draw a full circle in the air with 
your big toe, move your foot through all four 
directional movements. Now repeat on the other foot.reflexology techniquesHand relaxation exercises
The purpose of these relaxation exercises  is to give the hands a series of 
stretches to get them ready for work and to interrupt the often limited movement 
patterns that may be followed during the day. These can lead to stress and injury 
for many people. The exercises give a very useful warm-up for all those whose 
work involves the highly repetitive task of typing. 1With your fingers 
and thumb 
outstretched, hold your 
hand upright. 2 Curl your fingers 
in on themselves, 
making a hook, and 
holding your thumb 
straight out. 1804Curl the fingers and thumb into a fist 
and squeeze. Repeat several times.Tendon-glide 
exercise s
These exercises help to 
prevent the fingers and 
hands from getting tired by 
working and strengthening 
their under-used muscles. 3Curl your 
fingers over 
and touch the palm 
with the fingertips, 
still keeping your 
thumb straight.learning tip
Practice the tendon glide exercises 
before you start work, repeating 
each one 3–5 times initially, and 
gradually building up to 10 
repetitions. use the directional 
movement stretches all through 
the day to give the hands a chance 
for relaxation. hand relaxation exercises1Place the left hand with the 
palm facing upward. Rest 
your right hand on the palm, with 
the heel at the base of the fingers. Press down with the fingers of the 
top hand. Hold for several seconds, 
then change hands and repeat. 4Finally, let one hand rest on 
top of the other. Press down 
with the heel of the upper hand 
for a few seconds, before changing 
hands and repeating the exercise. 181Directional movement stretches
If you regularly carry out a repetitive task, such as typing,  
it is important to try to interrupt habitual stress patterns. These exercises, known as directional movement stretches,  
are particularly useful for this. 2Let one hand rest on top of 
the other, with the fingers 
wrapped around the inner part of 
the hand. Press down with the 
fingers of the top hand, holding 
momentarily, then going on to 
change hands and repeat.3Again letting one hand rest 
on top of the other, wrap the 
fingers around the outer part of 
the lower hand. Press down with 
the heel of the top hand, holding 
the position briefly, then changing 
hands and repeating.Gettin G Results 
A focused effort to get results is created from 
speciﬁc patterns of technique application. The 
patterns that most effectively create results 
consist of technique, target(s), and feedback. These combine to create the right experience for 
you and the recipient. The more speciﬁc your 
goal, the more speciﬁc your work. Choosin G you R Goal 
Frequent goals include: dealing with a health 
concern, coping with stress, assisting recovery, 
easing pain, giving ﬁrst aid, and comforting the 
ill. If you’re working with someone else, work 
together to set priorities. Health problems, ongoing illness, and chronic 
injuries form stress patterns in the body. Reﬂexology can provide a pattern of pressure 
techniques to counter these. First, consider your 
goal. Are you seeking to impact a health concern, 
such as asthma; a function of the body, such as 
how well the liver works; or a stress symptom? Then, you need to select the areas to work on. These can be a reﬂex area that reﬂects a speciﬁc 
organ or function of the body or an area that 
causes concern. All about mini-sessions
Sometimes a mini reﬂexology session  is just what you need when 
working with a family member, loved one, or friend. A child may not want to  
sit still for long; an adult may have a pressing chore that needs to be done. In 
any of these situations, a mini-session may be the most appropriate thing to 
offer. Sometimes you have a speciﬁc goal. An abbreviated session enables you to 
get the speciﬁc results you want. Working for a shorter time and more often is 
actually a better way to give reflexology. 184 Mini-sessions  FoR Gettin G ResultsTime, frequency, and duration are the three 
elements of reﬂexology success. Chinese doctors 
speculate that these factors are important to 
getting results. For example, a British study of 
reﬂexology and menopause found no 
improvement of symptoms, while Chinese 
research found that 88 percent of the participants 
had signiﬁcantly recovered. The difference in 
results? British participants received nine sessions 
over 19 weeks while the Chinese received 30-
minute sessions daily for as long as it took to get 
results, for some up to 60 days. The time needed to get results varies. A general 
rule is: the longer the condition or injury has 
existed, the more the body has adapted, which 
means that it needs more work. Over several 
“Consistency is most important in 
getting results. You’ll want to apply 
reﬂexology three times a day or 
more. Consider convenient times. Some think in terms of morning, 
noon, and night; others mealtimes.”  weeks you should see improvement if you’re 
working consistently. Think of dual purposing, 
applying self-help work while reading, watching 
television, or using the computer. Whatever your 
plan, the more convenient and enjoyable the 
experience, the easier it will be to get results. listenin G
The mini-session includes listening and assessing 
results. The person you are working on will react 
to your technique application. Listen to what is 
said. Typical responses to work include: “It hurts 
good,” “It hurts bad,” “I like that. Do more.” Or, ask 
“How does that feel?” Adjust your work, applying 
more or less accordingly. Stay within the 
individual’s comfort zone. A foot or hand being 
removed is a sign of sensitivity and children 
especially will react this way. evaluatin G 
You’ll want to know whether or not you are 
getting results. If you are, you’ll continue doing 
what you were doing. If not, you’ll want to 
change your mini-session. To evaluate it, ﬁrst, 
after working on one foot, ask the individual to 
take a few steps. Ask if they feel a difference 
between the worked and not-yet-worked foot. If 
you’ve been working on the hands, ask the 
recipient to ﬂex and compare them. At the end, 
ask, “How do you feel?” Here you’re seeing if the 
individual feels more relaxed overall. At the next 
session, ask again. If good feelings resulted after 
the session, ask “How long did it last?” 
To evaluate results, take a measure 
over time. Notice how often the 
condition recurs. If the interval is 
more infrequent, you’re moving 
in the right direction. Encourage 
self-help to speed up results. a Mini-session  can 
happen anytime and 
anywhere that’s 
convenient and fits in 
with your schedule. all about M ini-sessions 185186 Mini-sessions FoR Gettin G ResultsRecovery from injury
Reﬂexology aids recovery from injury  by easing stress, providing 
comfort, helping healing, and assisting the body in adapting to the injury. Injury 
is a stress to the body. The soothing touch of the mini-session reassures the 
individual that change is possible. Technique is applied to the part of the foot or 
hand that reﬂects the site of the injury with pressure that does not challenge a 
stressed state. This is followed by a full session easing the body into adaptation. ReCent injuRies 
To speed recovery from a current injury, ﬁrst 
locate the part of the foot or hand to be targeted. (See “Zones and referral areas” pp22-25.) Work 
with whichever is most easily available. Find the 
most sensitive area. Apply gentle pressing or 
squeezing to the area. Be gentle throughout. Your 
goal is to make contact and then let the body 
bounce back. Don’t add too much challenge at 
this stage. Work consistently and frequently. A 
soft press to a speciﬁc area every 15 minutes is 
not too much. One-year-old Amanda chose to take her ﬁrst 
steps in the outdoors. Her parents watched in 
horror as she walked and fell−right into a 
campﬁre. Her hands and face were burned, with 
a possibility of scarring and an impaired use of 
the hands. As her mother rocked her and carried her while she was recuperating in the hospital, a 
few gentle squeezes were effectively applied as a 
part of her comforting efforts. The palms of both 
her hands suffered third-degree burns, with a 
potential for tendon damage, so technique 
needed to be applied to the part of the foot 
corresponding to the hand instead. To achieve 
this, gentle pressure was applied to the sole. A gentle approach was called for because the 
child’s tension levels were high. Any strong 
application of technique might have been 
counterproductive. Working with the whole foot 
or hand spreads out the challenge of technique 
and applying technique every 15 minutes creates 
a frequency of pattern. To evaluate results, listen to the verbal 
feedback and observe the nonverbal 
communication. Watch for a report of change in 
the individual’s stress level, a more relaxed body 
language, or a change in sensitivity. taRGetinG Past injuRies 
The mini-session targeting past injury is directed 
toward the area of the foot or hand reﬂecting the 
injury as well as the stress pattern that has 
formed as the whole body adapts to the injury. A past neck injury, for example, involves changes “The soothing touch of a reflexology 
mini-session reassures the individual 
that change is possible. Ongoing 
reflexology work helps the body 
adapt and readjust to injury.”ReCoveRy FRoM inju Ry187in other parts of the body such as the upper 
back. First, locate the parts of the hand and foot 
that reﬂect the injury. You’ll want to work with 
both to aid recovery. Next, get an idea of 
neighboring parts of the body which have 
adjusted to the injury. Determine which reﬂex 
areas to target. If you’re working with a past 
injury, consider which parts of your body 
around the injury feel stressed. If you’re working 
to ease another’s recovery, ask him or her. Next, apply technique to the foot at the 
targeted area, working with care as you ﬁnd the 
area of sensitivity. Observe the individual’s 
response to your work. Adjust your pressure to 
their level of comfort. Go on to apply technique 
to the part of the foot reﬂecting the “neighboring” 
stressed part of the body. Decide which parts of the foot reﬂect the stress of the injury and will 
require future extra technique application. You’ll 
want to apply a whole foot workout twice a 
week to help the whole body de-stress better 
and adapt to the injury. Move on to the hand repeating the above 
process. You will want to work both the hands 
and feet to aid the recovery process. Next, get 
involved in self-help technique application. Explore both hand and foot reﬂexology self-help 
techniques to ﬁnd the ones that best target the 
area of concern. Then go on to explore use of 
referral areas. (See “Zones and Referral areas”, see 
pp22-25. See “Easing Pain”, see pp188-189.) Apply 
the thumb-walking technique to the sensitive 
part of the reﬂected area of, for example, the 
wrist to aid the recovery of injury to the ankle. selF-helP,  such as using a 
golf ball, will aid recovery 
from injury.Easing pain 
In reflexology, pain is addressed by applying direct pressure to the relevant 
reflex area. Or, if the pain is chronic, thumb-walking is applied to the reflex area. To ease pain, first find the area as reflected on the foot or hand. Reflex areas on 
the right foot or hand mirror body parts on the left side. The waistline reflex 
area can serve as a simple marker to find the area reflecting a pain of unknown 
origins. For further information, see “Zones and referral areas,” pp22-35. PerhaPs more  than 
anything, the touch of 
another helps ease the  
stress of pain. 188 mini-sessions for getting resultsOnce you have found the reflected area 
(corresponding to the body part) on the hand or 
foot, apply direct pressure. Position your working 
hand as you would to apply thumb-walking 
technique. Then press with your thumb. The 
appropriate area will be sensitive to such 
pressure. Hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds, 
or longer if your thumb is strong enough. Consider whether the pain has eased; if not, 
reapply until relief is achieved. It may be 
necessary to reposition your thumb to find a 
more sensitive area. Take care not to dig into the 
skin with your nail. If your targeted area is in the 
webbing or fleshy outer edge of the foot or 
hand, pinch the reflected area between your 
index finger and thumb.Working the hands
Here are suggestions to ease tension, which 
often contributes to pain, and for relieving 
pain in the head, neck, and trunk (chest and 
easing Pain 189Working the feet
First work the solar plexus reflex area to ease 
tension, and then apply direct pressure to the 
reflex area that reflects the location of the abdomen). When you press into the reflex 
area, avoid allowing your thumbnail to dig 
into the flesh of the hand. pain. Here are suggestions for pain in the 
head, neck, and trunk (chest and abdomen) 
areas. Don’t let your thumbnail dig in.tension relief
Rest your thumb and fingertip in 
the webbing of the hand at the 
solar plexus  reflex area. Press 
several times.head or neck Pain
To help ease pain, apply pressure 
to the head or neck  reflex  
area in the finger or thumb by 
squeezing the digit between the 
tips of the thumb and index finger.trunk Pain 
Press into the area on the palm 
corresponding to the pain site. Hold for 15–30 seconds to see if 
pain lessens. Reposition the thumb 
and press the most sensitive area. head or neck Pain
Apply pressure to the head  or 
neck  reflex sites on the toes by 
pinching between your thumb and 
fingers. Hold for 15–30 seconds. tension relief
To relax the foot, thumb-walk 
through the solar plexus  area. Go on to apply a full series of 
desserts (see pp78-83). trunk Pain
Place your thumb on the selected 
reflex area, and drop your wrist. Hold for 15–30 seconds. Move the 
thumb and try again. First aid
Standard first aid  and medical care are, of course, preferable in any 
emergency situation. Always call the emergency services and administer standard 
first aid before anything else. There are situations, however, where reflexology 
technique can be applied until help arrives and it has been utilized successfully 
for a variety of first aid situations, including revival, shock, and allergic reaction. 190 getting resultsReflexology work can be a complement to 
standard emergency care, though it is not 
appropriate as a primary response and it is not 
suitable in all situations. Do not work on an 
injured hand or foot and do not move an 
injured person to facilitate your work. Reflexology technique can be used in 
emergency situations until help arrives. A 
businessman recounted his experience after an 
80-foot fall in a remote forest. Thanks to the 
reflexology work administered for several hours 
while he was being transported to help, he did 
not go into shock. One client used a basic understanding of the 
reflex locations to help ease her daughter’s pain 
while waiting for medical care. Another client 
alleviated her own gastrointestinal distress while 
on the way to the emergency room. The authors themselves have utilized 
the revival technique in a variety of 
situations: a middle-aged woman who 
had fainted, an elderly woman who had stopped breathing, and a gentleman who 
had become disoriented. The technique proved 
safe, fast, and effective, providing aid until help 
arrived. Knowledge of  a few simple techniques 
can provide a lifeline in times of need. reflexology  can be a 
highly effective and very 
comforting complement  
to standard first aid 
procedures. first aid 191fainting anxiety attack shock allergic reaction 
To reduce the severity of allergic 
reactions such as asthma or hay 
fever, apply pressure to the 
adrenal gland  reﬂex area in 
the hand or foot. Pump repeatedly 
until the person notices an 
improvement. To facilitate revival from fainting, 
apply the hook and back-up 
technique to the pituitary  reﬂex 
area in the center of the big toe or 
the thumb. Pump it until results 
are achieved. See also p126.To reduce the potential impact  
of shock after an accident, use a 
quiet touch to make contact  
with the foot or hand. Gently 
squeeze or work the solar 
plexus  reﬂex area. To ease anxiety, apply gentle 
pressure to the solar plexus  
reflex area (see left and pp129), the 
adrenal gland  reﬂex area (see 
also p128) and the pancreas  
reflex area (see also p128). To achieve the best possible results, you need to 
plan your session carefully. If you are interested 
in addressing your own health concern, you 
should choose a self-help technique that you like 
(and therefore will do). You also need to select a 
time you can stick to and a comfortable place  
to work. You may want to work with a 
“reﬂexology friend” or use a professional 
reﬂexologist to bolster your self-help efforts. If 
you are helping another person, you need to 
find times when you are both available. If you 
cannot do reflexology frequently, encourage the 
recipient to use self-help techniques. Targe Ting a heal Th concern 
In planning your mini-sessions, you need to 
consider which reﬂex areas to target. The main 
targeted area is the reﬂex area on the foot or 
hand that mirrors the body part affected by the 
problem. For example, you would target the 
bladder reﬂex area to target bladder concerns. It is also important to target reﬂex areas that 
bolster the body’s natural healing powers. For 
example, working the adrenal gland area may 
help where breathing is a concern in addition to 
working the lung reflex area. The reason is that 
the adrenal glands produce adrenaline, which 
helps the lungs to function well. For a bladder 
infection, working the adrenal reﬂex area may Health concerns
Reflexology is most frequently used  to address a speciﬁc health 
concern. You can target reflex areas for health concerns following a full 
reflexology session. However, you may want to concentrate solely on a health 
concern, especially if your time is limited. In this case, it makes sense to create a 
specially tailored mini-session directed at particular reflex areas. 192 mini-sessions for ge TTing resul Tsalso help because another function of the 
adrenal glands is to ﬁght infection. In addition, it can be helpful to target other 
organs in the body system to which the problem 
area belongs. For example, the bladder is a part 
of the urinary system, as are the kidneys and 
ureter (which connect the kidneys to the 
bladder). Working all these areas may be more 
beneficial than targeting the bladder alone. When To apply Technique 
To target a current health concern, apply 
reﬂexology technique to the appropriate reﬂex 
area(s) whenever symptoms appear and continue 
applying technique until symptoms stop or 
recede to an acceptable level. When allergies 
strike, for example, apply reflexology work until 
the symptoms pass. For a more lasting impact, 
apply technique to the adrenal gland reﬂex area 
throughout the allergy season, not only during acute allergic attacks. To target a health concern that has been 
present for a number of years, pick the 
appropriate reﬂex area(s). Work the area(s) 
consistently three times a day (at breakfast, 
lunch, and dinner, for example), symptoms or no 
symptoms. The goal is to break up the pattern of 
stress. Over the course of several weeks, your 
symptoms should start to improve. heal Th concerns 193Body Sy Stem S Sample mini-session
To apply a mini-session for a bladder infection, techniques 
are applied to the organs of the urinary system, kidney, and 
bladder. In addition, a dessert is used to warm up the foot. 1Get started by relaxing the 
foot and warming it up with 
a dessert. Apply the 
side-to-side dessert, 
for example. 2Move on, applying technique 
to a relevant reflex area, such 
as the adrenal gland reflex 
area. Experiment to find an area 
that helps the health concern.3Go on to work another 
relevant reflex area, here the 
kidney. The time you spend on 
your work is more important than 
the order in which you apply it.4Here, the hands have been 
repositioned to work on 
another relevant reflex area, the 
bladder. Finish your work with 
a side-to-side dessert (see p78). The organs of the body are 
organized into systems. The organs 
of each system work together to 
fulfill a function.   endocrine system : pituitary 
gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, 
ovary/testicle, uterus/prostate, 
thyroid, parathyroid 
  digestive system:  stomach, 
gallbladder, liver, pancreas, small 
intestine, large intestine (colon) 
  Urinary system:  Kidneys,  
ureters, bladder 
  Reproductive system:  ovary, 
uterus, fallopian tubes, testicles, 
prostate 
  Nervous system:  spinal cord, 
brain 
  Cardiovascular system:  heart 
  Lymphatic system:  lymph 
glands, spleen 
  Immune system:  liver, spleen, 
endocrine glands, lymph glands
  Respiratory system:  lungsBegin your relaxation mini-session by creating a 
relaxed environment appropriate for the person 
you’re trying to relax. For your signiﬁcant other, 
lowered lights, soft music, his or her favorite 
aroma, and a few candles can create the mood. For an elderly person, a setting that includes 
favorite music from the past can stir pleasant 
memories. Sometimes setting is a matter of 
timing. For children, bedtime, nap time, or bath 
time provides a pleasant association between 
quiet time and reﬂexology. Also, remember both Relieving stress
The ultimate goal of reﬂexology  is to create a relaxing experience. After 
all, relaxation is a way of de-stressing and preventing wear and tear on the 
body. Although stress is a part of everyday life, continuous stress can contribute 
to the development of many health problems. 194 mini-sessions for getting resultsyou and your recipient should be comfortable. Propped up on pillows at opposite ends of a 
sofa, for example, could be a pleasant setting. designing your session
Often, the most relaxing session is one that 
consists entirely of desserts. Or try a session in 
which you apply a light feathering touch all over. Whatever you choose, intersperse technique 
applied to the solar plexus reflex area with 
desserts and a light, feathering technique. take the time  to create a relaxing 
environment at home by softening  
the lighting, perhaps using mood-
enhancing scented candles.relieving stress 195distract. If you ﬁnd yourself tiring, switch to 
thumb-walking with a light touch applied to 
the solar plexus reﬂex area. for the footDessert mini-sessions
Applying nothing but desserts is appropriate 
when your goal is a general lessening of 
stress. Dessert techniques both soothe and 
1Apply the side-to-side 
dessert. Rest the hands on 
the sides of the foot. Move one 
side of the foot away from you 
and the other side toward you. Alternate the actions of the hands, 
moving the sides of the foot 
quickly back and forth. 2Go on to apply the spinal 
twist dessert. Grasp the foot 
with both hands, thumbs resting 
on the sole of the foot. With the 
hand closest to the toes, turn the 
foot first one way and then the 
other several times, keeping the 
other hand stationary. Move the 
hands closer to the ankle and 
repeat the whole movement. 3Use the lung- 
press dessert to 
relax the foot. Push 
the left fist against the 
ball of the foot while 
squeezing gently with 
right hand. Repeat the 
action several times.4Hold the toes back with 
your left hand. Place the 
thumb of your other hand on the 
solar plexus  reflex area and 
make several thumb-walking 
passes up through this small area.5Again, apply the side-to-side 
dessert, resting the hands on 
the sides of the foot. Move one 
side toward you, the other away. Alternate directions, moving the 
foot sides quickly back and forth. 6Finally, apply ankle-rotation 
dessert. Grasp the ankle with 
one hand. With the other, hold  
the ball of the foot and rotate the 
toes clockwise 360˚ and then 
counterclockwise several times. 1 Start with the finger-pull 
technique. With the holding 
hand, grip the wrist. Grasp the 
thumb with the working hand, 
then pull slowly and steadily. Go 
on to work each finger. 2Use the side-to-side dessert. Hold the joint of the thumb 
nearest the hand, keeping the 
upper joint static. Move the lower 
joint from side to side. Repeat 
several times. Go on to each finger.3To work the solar plexus 
reflex area, link your hands 
and thumb-walk up the webbing. Reposition your thumbs and 
thumb-walk through another 
portion of the webbing. for the hand
196 mini-sessions for getting results4Repeat the finger-pull 
technique. Grip the wrist 
with the holding hand. Grasp the 
thumb with the working hand, 
then pull slowly and steadily. Work each finger in this way. 5Apply the palm dessert, 
grasping the sides of the 
hand. Turn both wrists outward, 
pressing up on the palm with 
your fingers. Now turn your 
wrists inward as you press the top 
of the hand with your palms. 7Apply the palm-mover 
dessert. Hold the hand 
steady. Press gently along the long 
bone of the index finger, while 
pulling up with the thumb. Repeat 
several times on each finger. 6Use the squeeze dessert to 
relax the hand. Grasp the 
wrist. Wrap your working hand 
around the wrist and squeeze. Repeat around the knuckles, then 
around the fingertips. 8Apply the palm-counter-
mover. Press down with the 
thumb on the knuckle of the index 
finger, while pulling up to twist the 
outside of the hand upward. Repeat on each knuckle in turn. relieving stress 197Providing comfort
Reﬂexology is a great form  of nonverbal communication. It has the 
ability to reach out and comfort someone when words might not be enough. Especially in a hospital or hospice situation, reﬂexology is used to show you 
care and to establish contact with a loved one. 198 mini-sessions for getting resultsWhen someone is very ill, reflexology brings 
comfort and can help relieve symptoms. Research has also found reflexology to be 
effective in helping with postoperative pain and 
recovery. It can also alleviate the after-effects of 
chemotherapy treatment, reducing or relieving 
pain, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and anxiety, 
thereby greatly improving quality of life. the refle Xolog Y session
Your ﬁrst concern is your loved one’s comfort. Be tuned in to their response to your work. At 
first, try holding the person’s hand and giving a 
few gentle presses. Such informal touch can go a 
long way to providing the necessary comfort 
and making the person feel relaxed, and 
may be enough for some people. As you work, ask the individual how 
he or she feels, and find out if they 
want more active reflexology work. If so, 
use the following mini-sessions as well 
as the appropriate mini-session from 
Reﬂexology for body  
systems (see pp260-287). Your choice 
of session depends on the 
symptoms that need targeting. Remember, don’t overstress 
the person by working too 
long or too forcefully. Work 
in ten-minute increments. As You work , remain alert to responses 
by frequently asking questions about how 
the techniques feel and by watching body 
language, such as smiles or frowns, or a 
hand or foot being pulled away. providing comfort 199Comforting mini-sessions
Your goal here is to remind the individual 
that you care; make contact with them and 
provide a relaxing atmosphere. Choose to work with the foot, the hand, or both. Since 
the objective is relaxation, there should not 
be any time constraints, if possible. BAsic foot session
BAsic h And session1Begin by placing your thumb 
in the solar plexus  reflex 
area. Hold the toes back as you 
use the thumb-walking technique 
to make passes through this area. Use a light touch.2Go on to apply several 
desserts. Apply the side-to-
side dessert by resting your hands 
on the foot’s sides. Alternate the 
actions of the hands, moving the 
sides of the foot back and forth.3Next apply the lung-press 
dessert. Rest your fist against 
the ball of the foot. Grasp the top 
of the foot with the right hand. Push with the fist. Then squeeze 
gently with the right hand. 1Work the solar plexus  
reflex area. Position the left 
thumb and index finger on 
opposite sides. Press into the reflex 
area. Hold for a few seconds. Reposition and work another part.2Move on to apply the finger-
pull dessert. With the holding 
hand, grip the wrist. Grasp the 
finger with the working hand, then 
pull slowly and steadily. Move on 
and repeat for all the fingers.3Next use the squeeze to relax 
the whole hand. Grasp the 
hand and press firmly but gently. Reposition your hand and repeat 
successively closer to the fingertips. Repeat this series.From the youngest  person in your life  
to the oldest, the needs of each individual varies 
according to life’s stages. Whether it’s the colic and 
teething of a tiny baby, the growing pains of a 
teenager, or the ailments of old age, reflexology’s 
techniques help to ease the health challenges that 
may occur. This chapter provides strategies that will 
enable you to care for all your loved ones.Reflexology for 
every life stageChapter 5Reflexology for your baby
A baby’s feet and hands  are natural candidates for play and, with some 
simple adaptations, you can create a reﬂexology interlude for your little one that 
is both happy and health-giving. By adding a few easy techniques as you play 
with your baby, for example, you can create a reﬂexology session that is an 
enjoyable extension of everyday playtime. 202 reflexology for every life stageReflexology can be introduced during many of 
your baby’s normal activities. Try accompanying 
nursery rhymes or activity songs with a few 
simple techniques. For example, gently pulling or 
squeezing toes while playing “This little piggy went to market” makes an easy, quick reflexology 
workout. Bath time, nap time, or rocking your 
baby to sleep all present opportunities for 
reflexology that further relaxes the little one. It is important to tune in to the baby’s 
reaction to your work. Alway press gently, and 
pay attention to nonverbal communication, such 
as a foot or hand being pulled away from you. lifetime benefits
A few presses of the foot every day can go a long 
way when working with babies and small 
children, and a regular daily workout, applying 
techniques to each part of the foot and hand, can 
have an impact that lasts a lifetime. If you want to 
address a particular health concern, work the 
appropriate reﬂex area several times a day, and 
give a general workout several times a week. A baby’s hands and feet are key to crawling, 
creeping, and walking, and hand and foot 
reﬂexology help organize the sensory pathways 
for the development of such vital skills. Continue 
your reﬂexology work as the baby grows, 
remembering that you are helping your child 
strengthen and develop in many different ways. reflexology tools  Commercially available 
reflexology balls, made of soft plastic, or even a golf 
ball, are fun toys and work hand reflexology areas. 1Start your work 
with a few presses 
of the thumb to the 
pituitary , head, 
and brain  reﬂex 
areas in the big toe. Continue on to the 
other toes.
Complete_Reflexology_for_Life_(_PDFDrive_).txt
Summarize the following text section accurately and concisely. Maintain specific details and numerical information, and use anti-repetition mechanisms:

        146 complete self-help hand sequenceStep 1
Working the fingers and the thumb
Those reflex areas worked in this sequence on the fingers  
and thumb include many whose function it is to direct the 
activities of the body, such as the brain, thyroid, parathyroid, 
and pituitary gland. In addition to these, you will work reflex 
areas corresponding to the head, brain, and sinuses; and  
jaw, teeth, and gums. At the conclusion of the sequence,  
take the time to carry out a series of desserts that are aimed 
at creating relaxation, such as the finger side-to-side and  
the walk-down/pull-against techniques. 1  Let the thumb rest against the 
thumb of the working hand. Press the index finger’s tip on to the 
pituitary  area in the center of the 
thumb. Press repeatedly, creating an 
on-off pressure. 2Holding the thumb steady 
against the working hand’s 
knuckles, use the finger-walking 
technique to make a series of 
passes across the thumb to work 
the following reflex areas: head, 
brain, sinus ; jaw, teeth, 
gums ; neck, thyroid, and 
parathyroid. AreAs worked
  Head & brain   control and 
coordinate all activity in the 
body, so a key part of a 
reflexology session.   Pituitary  this helps regulate  
all endocrine activity such as 
growth and metabolism.    sinus   Reflexology application 
technique aims to help keep 
these air-filled cavities clear.   Neck  this is a part of the body 
that is highly prone to tension, 
so it may respond well to 
reflexology.   Thyroid & parathyroid glands  
these glands help to regulate 
the energy levels in the body, 
metabolism, growth and blood 
calcium levels. You apply 
pressure to these reflex areas to 
enhance the functioning of 
these glands. desserts     finger-pull (p122) • finger side-to-side (p123) • Walk-down/
pull-against (p123) • nail-buffing (p144) • palm-mover (p124)  
• palm-counter-mover (p125) • the squeeze (p145)  step 1 1474Thumb-walk over the  
same reflex areas on the 
middle finger. 5Next work on the ring finger 
and thumb-walk across the 
reflex areas as before. 6Finally, apply the same 
technique to the reflex areas 
on the little finger. desserts    finger side-to-side (p123) • Walk-down/pull-against (p123) 3Let the hand rest, palm upward, on the working hand. Use the thumb-walking technique to make a number of 
passes across the whole index finger, working the head, neck, 
brain, and sinus  areas. Focus especially on the finger joint areas. HANd orie NTAT ioN
LeFT HANd 
1 head, brain, and sinuses    
2 neck
3 pituitary  gland  
4 thyroid  and parathyroid  glands413
2
see p127 for further informationStep 2
Working the thumb and webbing
Work in this sequence stimulates and enhances the 
functioning of the adrenal glands, pancreas, stomach, upper 
back, and kidneys−organs responsible for energy levels, 
digestion, and fluid processing. As you work on this fleshy 
part of the hand, take note of any nail marks that result from 
your application technique, and adjust it if necessary to 
lessen the impact. AreAs worked
	diaphragm 	Reflexology	aims	 	
	 to	enhance	the	performance	of	 	
	 this	muscle,	which	is	involved	in	 	
	 respiration	and	the	other	 	
	 involuntary	functions. 	Upper back Working	these	 	
	 reflex	areas	may	help	to	ease	 	
	 tension	in	the	upper	shoulders	 	
	 and	torso. 	Adrenal gland 		Working	these	 	
	 may	help	regulate	levels	of	 	
	 adrenaline. 	stomach 	Aim	to	assist	digestion	 	
	 by	targeting	this	reflex	area. 	kidney Strain	fluid	in	the	blood	 	
	 for	excretion	or	absorption. 	Pancreas This	organ	is	 	
	 responsible	for	stabilizing	blood	 	
	 glucose	levels. 1Locate the adrenal gland  
reflex area by placing the tip of 
the index finger in the center of the 
fleshy palm, midway along the long 
bone below the thumb: sensitivity 
will indicate that you’ve found the 
reflex area. Press repeatedly. 2Thumb-walk through the 
pancreas  reflex area with 
the working thumb. 148comple Te	Self-help 	hAnd	Sequence4To work the diaphragm, 
upper back, and kidney  
reflex areas, apply the thumb- 
walking technique in successive 
passes throughout the webbing 
and into the body of the hand. 4
5Finish by working more thoroughly 
on the kidney  reflex area: position 
the thumb and fingertips of the 
working hand in opposition to each 
other in the webbing. Press and 
release, moving around to find 
the most sensitive area. Press, adjusting 
pressure according 
to comfort level. 1
3HAnd orient Ation
2
LeFt HAnd 
1 adrenal  gland		3 pancreas
2 stomach  4  kidneys
5 diaphragm  6 upper back
See	p129	for	further	information5
6
desserts 			The	squeeze	( p145)	•	finger-pull	( p142)	
STep	21493Still using the thumb- 
walking technique, apply a 
series of passes through the 
stomach  reflex area with the 
thumb of the working hand. 150 complete self-help hand sequenceStep 3
Working the upper palm  
The sequence for this part of the palm targets reflex 
areas that correspond to the chest, heart, and lungs; 
the shoulders and upper back; and the eyes 
and ears (including the structures of the 
inner ear). If you have tension or 
discomfort in any of these areas, 
focus on the corresponding reflex 
areas as you work through the 
movements shown here. 1Using the tip of the index 
finger, finger-walk across the 
heart  reflex area, moving in the 
direction shown by the arrow. 2Starting at the diaphragm  
reflex area, thumb-walk in 
successive passes across the palm, 
through the chest, lung, and 
upper back  reflex areas. 3Move across to the 
shoulder  reflex area. Thumb-walk up through this area, 
toward the little finger, in a series 
of successive passes. AreAs worked
  Inner ear   Work on this reflex 
area can help the organs of the 
inner ear regulate balance.   ears  Reflexology techniques 
may help ease an earache or the 
buzzing of tinnitus.   eyes  applying reflexology may 
help soothe sore eyes.   shoulders  Working these reflex 
areas may ease tension.   Heart  Working this reflex area 
may help keep the heart 
functioning well.   Upper back  applying 
techniques to these reflex areas 
may ease upper torso tension.   Chest & lungs   Reflexology 
work on these reflex areas helps 
keep the chest and lungs open. step 3 1514To work the eye reflex 
area, use your working 
thumb and index finger 
gently to pinch the webbing 
between the index and ring 
fingers. Repeat several times. 36
24
1
desserts    palm-mover (p124) • palm-counter-mover (p125) 5Work the inner ear  reflex area by pinching 
the webbing that lies between the middle and 
ring fingers. Repeat this action several times. 6Move on to the ear reflex area, between the 
ring and little fingers, and gently pinch the 
webbing there.
To work reflex areas that direct the activities of the body, such as the brain, thyroid, and pituitary gland.
What is the purpose of the sequence in Step 1?
The sequence in Step 2 targets reflex areas corresponding to the head, brain, and sinuses; jaw, teeth, and gums; and neck, thyroid, and parathyroid glands.
What are the reflex areas worked in Step 2?
The foot relaxation exercises aim to ease tension in the foot and help the body adapt to injury.
What is the purpose of the foot relaxation exercises?
The ultimate goal of reflexology is to create a relaxing experience and provide comfort.
What is the ultimate goal of reflexology?
The sequence in Step 7 targets reflex areas corresponding to the organs of the body's digestive system, including the stomach, pancreas, and intestines.
What are the reflex areas worked in Step 7?