Ear reflexology is not as well known as foot or hand reflexology, but it is just as effective for relieving pain and stress. Applying it is quick and easy. The ideal is to use it when health conditions make classic reflexology therapies unsuitable, in case of cuts, scratches or other serious problems.
Steps
Step 1. Consult the ear reflexology chart to find reflex points for the problem you want to treat and be sure to focus on those during the session
Step 2. Sit in a quiet room in a comfortable chair
Step 3. Collect hair that can interfere with your therapy
Stop them in a queue or move them.
Step 4. Start with the lobes of both ears
Press them gently and pull them down, in a gentle, pain-free motion.
Step 5. Trace the outer outline of the ears
Repeat the movement several times.
Step 6. Identify the sensitive areas of your ears, if you have any
Pay attention to any area that is sore, sluggish, or soft to the touch when you press or squeeze it.
Consult the chart if you are not sure which area corresponds to a particularly sore spot. It is not necessary of course to know the relationship, but you may find it interesting and enlightening. For example, if the area corresponding to the gallbladder is sensitive, you could have a beginning of infection without knowing it. You can then take preventive measures to stop it immediately
Step 7. Start at the top of your right ear and slowly work your thumb and forefinger along the outer edge, working your way up to the earlobe
Apply pressure to the outer edge by gently squeezing and then releasing each point along the ear. For best results, repeat the procedure at least five times. Hold for at least five seconds before proceeding to the next step.
Step 8. Repeat with the left ear
Step 9. If you wish, you can also work the inner pavilion of the ear, as it also contains many reflex points
Professionals usually use a blunt stick for these points, as the fingers are too large to stimulate them.
Advice
- While it is easy to practice ear reflexology on yourself, it is even easier to do it on others. Have a friend or family member sit in a comfortable position and try.
- Ear reflexology brings many benefits, the clearest being of course immediate pain relief. The Chinese have found that it is quite suitable for treating infections, lowering blood pressure and balancing hormones.
- Boys are especially receptive to these treatments. Most find ear reflexology to be very relaxing and calming.
- Unlike the traditional one on the foot and hand, where those on the left represent the left side of the body and vice versa, each ear represents the whole body, so it must be worked individually.
- There are some nerve endings all over the ear so deep reflexology may stimulate all areas of the body even if you are not sure if you have touched each point.
Warnings
- You can use a small, blunt stick to put pressure inside the ear but be cautious to avoid hurting yourself and never stick it into the ear canal.
- The points of reflexology in the ear are similar but not identical to those of auricular therapy, better known as acupuncture, which should not be confused with the former. Acupuncture is applied to some particular points using small fine needles.
