Reflexology can be very effective in reducing headaches, which are often caused by eye strain. In fact, many of the headaches other than migraines are caused either by stress or tension in the eyes and can be treated with the application of reflexology. Read the following steps to find out how to relieve eyestrain using foot or hand reflexology.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Foot Reflexology Points to Relieve Eye Tension
Symptoms of eyestrain include sore eyes, headaches, fatigue, and blurry vision. Eye tension can also have an effect on the head, neck and back, so the points that reflect these parts will also be stimulated, as well as the eyes.
Step 1. Locate the reflex points related to eyestrain on the foot reflexology map shown below
- Eyes (at the base of the fingers)
- Neck (at the base of the toes on the top of the foot)
- Head (fingertips)
- Back (along the entire inner edge of the foot, from the tip of the big toe to the ankle)
Step 2. Work on the reflex points on the second toe on both feet
The second finger corresponds to the eyes and by applying pressure to these points you will relax the eye muscles.
- Hold your right foot up with your left hand and place your thumb under the first crease of the second toe.
- Make small circular movements in a clockwise direction.
- Repeat on the left foot; hold your left foot with your right hand and put your thumb under the first crease of the second toe.
- Make small circular movements in a clockwise direction.
- Work on the second toe of each foot for at least 5 minutes each.
Step 3. Press the reflex points for the neck
- First work on the sole of the foot, using the right thumb to border the base of the first three toes.
- Then work on the same area on the top of the foot, but use your right index finger to press the bases of the first three toes.
- Work the reflex points of the neck on both feet.
Step 4. Relieve the muscle tension in the back that often accompanies eye strain
- To work on the reflex points on the spine, hold your right foot with your left hand and use your right thumb to work the area along the inside of the foot.
- Repeat on the left side.
Method 2 of 2: Hand Reflexology Points to Relieve Eye Tension
The reflex points for the eyes are just below the fingers, the right eye is reflected in the right hand and the left eye is reflected in the left hand. Always work the reflex points on both hands.
Step 1. Press and massage the base of the index finger and the base of the middle finger for at least five minutes
Press the bases of these two fingers onto the top of the hand as well as onto the palm
Step 2. Work on the reflex points that correspond to the parts of your body that are often affected by eyestrain
All reflex points for the head and neck are placed on the fingers and thumbs.
Squeeze and massage each finger from base to tip and you will touch every part of the thyroid, neck and head as well as the eyes
Step 3. Cross your fingers so that your hands are placed as if you are praying
Step 4. Alternatively press and release your fingers; at the same time press your palms together and release
It is not the traditional method of reflexology, but, by using this technique, you will have access to most of the points that have an effect on the tension of the eyes. It's a quick and easy method to use when you're at work.
Advice
- Eye strain is often caused by long periods at the computer. If you have to work on your computer all day, rest your eyes often. Simply look around the room and let your eyes focus and relax on other objects.
- You can also use ear reflexology for eyestrain. Consult an ear reflexology map to find reflex points for your eyes, neck and head.
- For severe eye strain, you can put cold tea bags over your eyes and rest them for 20 to 30 minutes.
