Have you ever thought about how important our feet actually are for our health and well-being? They carry you through your everyday life and your whole life and yet they get quite little attention and care. Acupressure and reflexology are a natural way to do something good for your feet and therefore for your whole body.
In this article you will learn what acupressure is, what it can do for your feet and which exercises everyone can easily do at home. We'll also talk about reflex zones on the feet, the difference between acupuncture points and reflex zones, and how you can strengthen your foot muscles without much effort.
- What is acupressure?
- What does acupressure do to the feet?
- What are the acupressure points on the foot?
- What are foot reflex zones?
- What is the difference between foot reflexology and acupressure points?
- Where are the reflex zones on the foot?
- Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot
- How to use an acupressure mat for the feet?
- Conclusion
What is acupressure?
Acupressure is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The principle works very similarly to acupuncture. In acupuncture, needles are used to stimulate points on energetic pathways called meridians. This, according to TCM, restores balance. Both the body and the psyche can be positively influenced.
With acupressure, you simply leave out the needles. Instead, you apply light pressure to the corresponding points or tap them lightly for a few seconds.
So if you have stayed away from acupuncture because of the use of needles so far, you can relax and let yourself fall during acupressure - for example on a ShaktiMat.
What does acupressure do to the feet?
Many people report that acupressure on the feet not only helps with various physical and mental ailments, but also makes them feel more vital and full of energy.
Martina, for example:
"I am absolutely thrilled. Every morning when I get ready in the bathroom, I'm on the mat. All I can say is, since then I start the day in a completely different way. I feel fit and full of energy."
Martina F. - Shakti Acupressure Footmat -black
But also other complaints can be relieved by acupressure on the feet:
- chronic pain
- Headaches, Back pain, pain in the limbs (e.g. as a result of osteoarthritis)
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Nervousness
Who would have thought that such a simple method could have so many positive effects! Try it out and observe the changes in your everyday life. Fewer headaches? More energy? Better mood? We'd love you to tell us about it! You are very welcome to do so in our Facebook community . Many people share their experiences with acupressure there.
What are the acupressure points on the foot?
By regularly standing on the acupressure mat, you give your feet a massage and "press" many acupressure points at once. This way you can thank this hardworking, reliable part of your body for its daily services.
There are many acupressure points on the feet. But let's get into the topic slowly and first deal with three of the points that you can activate on your foot.
The "Illuminated Sea" Point (KL-6)
"Enlightened Sea" point is really a nice name for an acupressure point, isn't it? If you're looking for KL-6, you'll find it on the inside of your ankle. Place your thumb across just below your ankle bone. The point you are looking for is now directly below your thumb. Stimulate the point lightly. You can do this on both feet at the same time.
→ Effect: If you often have stiff or swollen ankles, this point can help to alleviate the discomfort.
The "High Mountain" Point (BL-60)
If you just tested the "Enlightened Sea" point, you don't have to go far for the "High Mountain" point. Grasp your heel and use your thumb to find the indentation located between your outer ankle bone and the Achilles tendon. You can keep this point pressed for about five minutes. After about 30 seconds, you can reduce the pressure slightly for a few seconds. Observe whether anything changes if you do this a few evenings in a row.
→ Effect: The "High Mountain" point can help if your feet are swollen, your thighs hurt or you have discomfort in your lower back.
IMPORTANT! If you are pregnant, this point is not suitable for you for the time being, as it can trigger premature labor. However, if you have problems with swelling in your feet, the "Enlightened Sea" point could be helpful for you. Give it a try if you feel like it.
The "Quiet Sleep" point (BL-62)
Your feet are currently sensitive to pain and you have also slept badly? Then maybe give the "Calm Sleep" point a chance today. For this point, turn your attention to the outer ankle bone. Feel from the ankle downwards towards the heel. The first indentation you can feel there is the BL-62. You can hold this point for one to two minutes with light pressure. If you wish, you can stimulate this point every day.
→ Effect: If you feel pain in your feet or ankles and have trouble sleeping, this point could help you find relief.