Reflexology is a gentle but effective method of helping the body to relax and do something good for yourself. It is based on the idea that certain areas, for example on the feet, hands and ears, are connected to internal organs and bodily functions. Targeted pressure on these reflex zones in the body can release blockages, stimulate self-healing and promote general well-being.
Whether you're stressed, suffering from tension or simply looking for a deeper connection to your body, reflexology can be more than just pleasant - it can support you on your journey to greater well-being. Sounds good? Then read on, because we'll tell you everything you need to know about the subject and explain how you can perform this soothing massage yourself.
Content
2. the different reflex zones & their connections
3. how reflexology works in practice
4 How often should reflexology be performed?
What are reflex zones?
Reflex zones are specific areas on our body - especially on the feet, hands and face - that are each associated with an internal organ or body system. For example, certain zones on the feet are connected to the liver, stomach or spine. But there are also hand reflex zones and reflex zones on the face. The idea behind this: By specifically touching these zones, the energy pathways in the body can be activated, blockages released and inner balance promoted. This form of stimulation stimulates the body's self-healing powers - both physically and emotionally.
The foot reflex zones in particular are frequently used in naturopathy. However, the areas in the hands or face are also receiving increasing attention, as they react very sensitively and a massage of these areas can have a rapid effect.
The different reflex zones & their connections
In order to use reflexology in a targeted manner, it is important to understand which areas are connected to which organs. Targeted touch or gentle pressure on these points is intended to stimulate energy flows and have a positive effect on well-being. We have put together a brief overview here so that you know exactly which points you should pay particular attention to during your next reflexology massage.
Foot reflex zones & the organs that are connected to them
- Tips of the toes: Head, brain, sensory organs
- Under the toes: Eyes, ears
- Ball of the foot: Heart, lungs
- Middle arch of the foot: stomach, liver, pancreas
- Inner heel: Bladder, Abdomen
- Outer heel: Sciatica, lumbar spine
The most important hand reflex zones
- Fingertips: Head, brain
- Ball of the thumb: Airways, lungs
- Center of the palm: Stomach, liver, intestine
- Near wrist: pelvic organs, back
Reflex zones on the face that you should know
- Forehead: digestion, small intestine
- Temples: circulation, lymph
- Cheeks: Lungs, respiratory system
- Chin: hormones, reproductive organs
- Nasal bridge: Spine
How reflexology works in practice
With a little practice, you can easily perform the reflexology massage yourself - as a little ritual in between for more well-being. Not only is it important to find the right point, but the massage should also be carried out with mindfulness in a calm atmosphere. Whether on the feet, hands or face: gentle pressure and circular movements activate the reflex zones in a targeted manner and help you to release blockages and promote the flow of energy.
Foot reflexology
You should take a few quiet minutes for the foot reflexology massage - preferably while sitting with your legs slightly bent. Sit down comfortably, place one leg over the other and start by lightly rubbing and kneading your foot with both hands. This loosens the tissue, warms up the area and prepares the zones for the massage.
Now use your thumb to stroke the sole of your foot with gentle, even pressure - starting at the toes. The toes symbolize the head area. If you have tension in your neck or jaw, you can work here with circular movements. Below this, on the ball of the foot, you will find the zones for the heart and lungs - apply gentle pressure here a few times during the reflexology massage and consciously breathe in and out deeply.
Then work your way towards the middle of the foot, where you can apply gentle pressure to the stomach, liver and intestinal area. Feel inside - some areas react more sensitively. This is completely normal. At the heel, you will find zones that are associated with the abdomen and spine. Change your foot when you have finished the first one. Take your time and feel what is good for you. If some points hurt when massaging the foot reflex zones, this is nothing unusual, but the massage should be soothing and not unpleasant.
Tip: The Shakti doormat or our classic Shakti Mat are also ideal for stimulating the reflex zones in the feet and stimulating the flow of energy.
Reflexology on the hands
The hand reflexology massage is perfect for short breaks in everyday life - it can be performed almost anywhere. Sit down in a relaxed position and start by gently rubbing both palms together to create warmth. Then take one hand in the other and start with light, pressing movements on the fingertips. You can also use our Shakti Ring for this. The zones in the finger are connected to the head and the nervous system - perfect if you are feeling stressed or mentally exhausted.
Slowly work your way over the ball of your thumb to the center of your palm. Use your thumb or index finger to apply pressure in small circles. The center of the palm is often associated with the stomach and digestive system - a gentle massage here can have a beneficial effect, especially in cases of abdominal discomfort. At the lower edge of the hand, near the wrist, there are reflex points that are associated with the abdomen.
Stay in each zone for a few breaths, pay attention to how your body feels and then switch to the other hand. The massage should never be painful - a pleasant pressure is completely sufficient. For an even deeper effect, you can use a little essential oil and consciously enjoy the moment.
Reflexology on the face
The reflex zones on the face react particularly sensitively to touch - ideal for a gentle, mindful massage that you can integrate into your skincare routine or create as your own ritual. Start with clean, slightly warmed hands. Place your fingertips on your forehead and stroke slowly from the center outwards - this helps to release mental tension and massages the zones associated with digestion and concentration.
Then run circular movements over the cheeks, starting next to the nose and moving outwards. This zone is energetically connected to the lungs. Consciously breathe in and out deeply as you perform the massage and then move to the chin: place your fingertips in the middle and gently stroke out towards the jawline. The chin is closely linked to the hormonal system and often reacts particularly sensitively.
Finally, you can gently move downwards along the bridge of your nose - ideally with your index and middle fingers. This movement should help to balance the connection to the spine and harmonize the flow of energy. It is important to work slowly, breathe calmly and stay completely with yourself. The facial massage can not only have a great energetic effect, but can also give your skin new freshness and vitality.
How often should reflexology be performed?
Reflexology massages can be flexibly integrated into your everyday life - depending on what you need at the time. If you want to do something specifically for your well-being or alleviate certain complaints, an application once to three times a week is ideal. Regular massages can release tension and energy blockages in the long term and strengthen your connection to your own body.
A short daily massage session is also possible, especially if you work with gentle pressure. Many people integrate reflexology massages into their morning or evening routine - whether to start the day feeling awake and full of energy or to calm down in the evening. Especially when working with the hands or face, a minute of conscious touch is often enough to noticeably relax.
For acute complaints, it may be useful to massage daily for a limited period of time. However, it is advisable to take a break afterwards to give the body time to regenerate. The basic rule is: listen to how you feel. If you feel more comfortable, clearer or more relaxed after the massage, there is nothing to stop you from using it regularly. However, if you are unsure or have existing health problems, it may be advisable to seek medical advice.
Conclusion: Reflexology as a path to greater body awareness
Reflexology is much more than just a feel-good treatment. It offers a gentle way to get in touch with your own body through targeted touch and support your well-being. Whether on the feet, hands, face or even the reflex zones on the back, each zone is connected to specific organs, systems or emotional areas.
With a little practice and attention, the massage can be easily integrated into everyday life - as a little break in between or as a conscious ritual in the morning or evening. The effect often unfolds slowly but noticeably: inner peace, more energy, a better body feeling.
It is important to pay attention to your own rhythm and not to overexert yourself. Reflexology is not a miracle cure, but it is a powerful tool for self-care - with the potential to harmonize body and mind and strengthen natural balance.
Our tip for even more relaxation: perform the massage during a soothing session on your Shakti Mat.