Touch has been used as a healing technique since the early days of medical care. Illness or pain can be improved by applying specific techniques of touch by a skilled practitioner. Among the several touch therapies, two predominant ones are acupressure and reflexology. Both work on applying pressure on specific points to balance the body’s energy flow, and people often don’t realize that the two modalities are not at all the same. Reflexology and acupressure have distinct techniques, histories, and practices.
Let’s explore acupressure vs reflexology in detail.
Acupressure: The Definition
Acupressure is a healing practice that is part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It involves applying manual pressure to specific points on the body, known as acupoints. These acupoints are located along energy pathways to specific points called meridians. The goal is to restore the balance of the body’s energy and relieve problems, such as stress, pain, and digestive issues. The pressure is applied using fingertips and sometimes tools like the tip of the pen to stimulate these points, prompting healing and balance.
Reflexology: The Definition
Reflexology is a healing therapy rooted in ancient Egypt and focuses on applying pressure to reflex points on the feet and hands, distinctly stimulating the nerve endings. It is based on the belief that by pressing these points, the nervous system will create a reaction with specific zones, influencing body systems and improving the function of different organs. Reflexology creates homeostasis, reducing pain, stress, and headache, while improving circulation, blood pressure, and hormones. Like acupressure, reflexology techniques are applied by fingertips, but unlike acupressure, reflexology never involves any kind of tool or instrument.
Acupressure and Reflexology: Understanding the Key Difference
As discussed above, acupressure vs reflexology are two different therapies. The factors that make them different are origin, technique, focus point, tool use, pressure intensity, and duration.
Let’s check them below:
1- Origins
- Acupressure is a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has been practiced for thousands of years in China. It is based on the concept of balancing the energy flow along with the body’s meridians.
- Reflexology has roots in Ancient Egypt, where it was practiced and documented in hieroglyphs since 2500 B.C. It balances the body via the nervous system.
2- Technique
- Acupressure techniques are applied all over the body by using the fingertips or tools, like a pen or small wood cylinder. It is often regarded as an ‘Acupressure Massage’.
- Reflexology techniques are not considered massage. The techniques are applied by the fingertips to the feet, hands or ears and does not involve any other kind of tool.
3- Focal Point
- Acupressure targets 361 acupoints spread across 14 meridians, which are pathways through which energy (Qi) flows in the body.
- Reflexology works with over 7,000 nerve endings located in the feet. These nerves correspond to different organs and systems in the body.
4- Tools Used
- A practitioner of acupressure uses their hands as well as other tools to apply pressure on the specific acupoint.
- A certified reflexologist exclusively uses their hands to apply pressure on reflex points.
5- Pressure Duration
The last factor that keeps acupressure and reflexology apart is pressure duration.
- In acupressure, pressure is applied to each acupoint for a duration of 30 seconds to 2 minutes, allowing for deep stimulation and a longer period of healing.
- In reflexology, the pressure is applied in an alternating pattern, generally lasting up to 8 seconds per reflex point which is revisited if the point is tender or textured.
Acupressure vs Reflexology: Which Therapy Is Best For You?
Both acupressure and reflexology are healing modalities that soothe many ailments. How do you know which one is better for you? In your search for either, it is your responsibility to determine the qualifications of your practitioner. Choose one that is nationally certified before you schedule an appointment. Then, after your initial session, you will also know how comfortable you are working with that practitioner. Determine the practitioner’s skill, professionalism, and knowledge. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the practitioner because the healing modality can only work if you are able to relax in their presence. Take the time to seek the right practitioner for you.
Get The Best of Reflexology With Jasmin Reflexology
When looking to reap the maximum health benefits of reflexology, consult a professional reflexologist. They are certified experts who can assess and understand your health problem and know the right techniques to help you achieve your goals. Whether you have a migraine or just want to relieve daily stress, reflexology is the best therapy. Jasmin Reflexology is the #1 reflexologist in Chicagoland. With a soothing, healing touch and professional techniques, Jasmin is helping people relieve their stress and live a healthy and happy life. Book your appointment now and take a step towards a better lifestyle!
