You already know Qigong affords deep relaxation, increased vitality and a better immune system. But did you know that adding Reflexology to your Qigong routine can supercharge your energy? Reflexology refers to applying pressure to specific points, or energy spots along the hands, feet, or even the face, in order to stimulate the body’s corresponding organs and systems. Foot reflexology in particular is a wonderful complement to the healing and energy enhancing aspects of Qigong.
Combining the forces of Qigong healing energy with foot reflexology can be a powerful tool for putting you on the fast track to super detoxification. Circulation and elimination of metabolic waste are key to vibrant health. Both Qigong and Reflexology help speed up metabolism. Having more life force is the best thing you can do to keep your immune system strong or shorten your recovery time after you have fallen ill.
The theory of reflexology is, points and areas on the feet and hands correspond to specific organs, bones and body systems. These points are mapped out on a chart. Although, just as geographic maps can be subject to the map makers experience of the territory, not all reflexology charts are equal. Not all practitioners agree on all the points, but they do agree on major points in general. The big toe represents the head and neck, for example. And each foot represents one vertical half of the body. The left foot corresponds to the left side of the body and its organs. The right foot corresponds to the right side of the body and its organs.
How Does Reflexology Relate to Qigong?
Reflexology should not be confused with massage. While massage uses direct manipulation of the body’s soft tissues and muscles, Reflexology focus on specific points on the soles of the feet to stimulate meridians and release blocked Qi, which is Qigong’s main purpose as well.
Here is a tip for incorporating Reflexology into your Qigong routine:
At the beginning of your practice, open your points and stimulate your meridians by focusing on your feet and gently bouncing on the balls of your feet with eyes closed, breathing in deeply and exhaling through your mouth. Next, rub your hands together vigorously, working up the heat and energy in your palms. Do this as long as it takes you to feel entirely relaxed and tingling in your hands and feet. The tingling is your Qi!
And, you don’t have to be limited to a class or a chart to give yourself some great reflexology. Anywhere, anytime you can peel off your socks, pick up your feet and, using either your thumbs or a blunt object (the cap of a fat pen is good!), press into those points that feel best.
If some points are sore or even very painful, that’s an indication of energy blockage. Working the point gently and slowly will eventually clear the blockage. Let pain be your guide and feeling fabulous be your reward!