Add These Facial Reflexology Massages to Your Self-Care Routine
The traditional Chinese medicine doctrine indicates that a reflex tool and reflexology works under the idea that similar physical shapes in the body hold similar energetics. Reflexology is generally relaxing and may help alleviate stress and pain. The theory behind facial reflexology is that areas of the face correspond to organs and systems of the body. Pressure applied to the face is believed to bring about the following benefits:
- better sleep
- increased energy
- healthier skin
- elevated mood
- pain relief
- improvement in immune deficiencies
- headache relief
- clearer sinuses
- calmer mind
- body detoxification
HOW TO USE A FACIAL REFLEXOLOGY TOOL
You can practice facial reflexology by massaging different points on your face. Common pressure points include the forehead, ear, and chin for insomnia; and the center of the forehead for the immune system and the mind. The best and most effective way to apply this pressure is by using a specialised facial reflexology tool.
If you are looking to alleviate sharp pains you can roll the yin side of your tool to help balance the yang energy. If the sensation is considered to be more of a dull ache, you can roll the yang side of the tool to help balance the excess yin energy. Some back pain can also affect your chi life force. Focusing on the kidney points along the sides of the nostrils can help balance this sensation, along with drinking extra water. You will notice a feeling of relief on the tenderness of the nose, and you may also experience relief of the pains overall.
FACIAL REFLEXOLOGY TECHNIQUES
Bitong
Location: under the nostril, where the nasolabial groove meets the nose.
Massage benefits include:
- clearing congestion
- calming inflammation
- helping with seasonal ailments
How to practice it:
Use your facial reflexology tool to apply pressure to bitong.
Make small circles to bring circulation to your sinuses.
Taiyang
Location: The temples
Massage benefits include:
- soothing tension headaches
- relieving stress
- calming the mind
How to practice it:
Place the facial reflexology tool on your temples. Rub the point in a circular direction, slowly breathing in and out for 10 deep breaths. Rest your reflexology tool in the center of your temples, hold for two deep breaths, then release slowly.
Yin Tang
Location: the third eye, the space on the forehead between your eyebrows.
Massage benefits include:
- clearing the mind
- relieving pressure around the eyes, nose, and head
- relieving eye fatigue
How to practice it:
Gently lean your head forward to gradually apply pressure from the weight of your head onto the point of your facial reflexology tool. Make soft, circular motions. Take 10 deep breaths while massaging, then release.
Whether you’re suffering from headaches, anxiety, a lackluster complexion, or something else, reflexology experts will tell you there’s a pressure point for that. Facial reflexology has been practiced for thousands of years around the world, making it a self-care ritual staple!
