Acupuncture, Acupressure and Reflexology are all considered “healing arts”, which are based on, and have their origins in, traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM is an ancient healing philosophy that has been around over 2,000 years. It is focused on strengthening and harmonizing the body’s life force energy - known as Qi. Qi flows through the body via a network of meridians (energy channels), similar to how blood flows through your blood vessels.
Interesting fact: “In the 1890s, British scientists found that nerves connect the skin and internal organs. They also found that the body’s entire nervous system tends to adjust to outside factors, including touch”. This is something TCM has known for many, many years!
Acupressure and Reflexology are similar in that both of these alternative/complementary therapies: They stimulate points in the body to balance energy flow, and are guided by the principles of TCM (one point on the body affects other parts of the body). The goal of both therapies is to assist in healing the mind, body, emotions, and spirit.
Now comes the “however”, the points on the body in Reflexology and Acupressure do not always coincide. Western Reflexology uses reflexes that are in an orderly arrangement using the feet, hands, and outer ears. Acupressure, on the other hand, uses over 800 reflex points along energy lines called meridians, which run the length of the body.
Both Acupressure and Reflexology apply a holistic approach, which is based on “scientific foundations” involving basic physiology and the roots of pain. As “healing arts”, they interact with one’s mind, body, and spirit. Acupressure and Reflexology are complex practices which include “assessing and balancing” energy flow along meridian or reflex pathways. They don't exchange energy between giver and receiver, instead Acupressure and Reflexology are applied to balance the energy of the receiver.
Acupressure
Acupressure is based on the same "acupoints” as Acupuncture. Pressure (instead of using needles) is applied to a point. Of course, using a needle is more “potent” than pressure, however, with acupressure, you can apply pressure to your own points.
There are hundreds of Acupressure points along the body’s meridians, each having a specific function. Some are used to strengthen weak Qi in a meridian. Others are used to treat congested, stagnant, or blocked Qi. Some points relate to specific organs, while others are more general. The points being used are based on needs of the receiver and the desired outcome. Because there are so many points, it’s impossible to press on every Acupressure point in one treatment. There should also be a limit on how many are stimulated at one time. Keep in mind that there isn’t usually just one “perfect point”. It is usually a judgment call as to which or how many are stimulated.
Reflexology
There are many potential benefits of Reflexology (just as from Acupressure), including reduced stress, improved circulation, and pain relief. There are different theories on why or how Reflexology works. One belief is that a Reflexologist’s touch may help to calm the central nervous system which would promote relaxation and decrease stress, just like massage. Another theory is that the brain creates pain as a result of a subjective experience, either physical, emotional, or mental.
First, let me say that when we are talking about Reflexology, we are usually referring to Western Reflexologists who use Ingham, a standardized reflexology method. This method is popular in England, Australia, Canada, and the United States. Chinese Reflexology practitioners are more difficult to find and are popular in Asia, especially China. Chinese healing methods are more “secret” and are taught and practiced on families, friends, dedicated students, etc.
Some differences between the two (although there are some similarities): reflex points on the foot differ, and Chinese Reflexology uses a tool, while Western Reflexologists use fingers, thumbs, and knuckles. Western Reflexology uses the Zone theory. In this theory, the body has 10 vertical zones which contain different body parts. These body parts correspond to specific fingers and toes. There are three main types of Reflexologies in Western Reflexology: foot, hand, and ear reflexology. Each type of reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on the body.
Many Ingram method Reflexologists believe the main difference between Acupressure and Reflexology is the amount of pressure used. They believe that Acupressure uses more pressure than Reflexology and that Reflexology is more specific and targeted.
Chinese Reflexology, on the other hand, is similar to Acupressure in that you can stimulate different body parts to strengthen and harmonize your Qi. The potent points are located on your feet, which are believed to contain the master control points for harmonizing energy flow throughout your meridians. Each point has a different purpose, and the effectiveness is highly dependent on choosing the best points to stimulate. Pressure applied in Chinese Reflexology is stronger than either Western Reflexology or Acupressure.
With Chinese Reflexology, it is important that you know the complete system of Traditional Chinese Reflexology—meaning all 50-plus points and “how to massage them with a reflexology stick”. Of note, you can massage all of the reflexology points in a single session which covers all the body’s major systems and meridians. The points on the feet are not as specific as with Acupressure; the stimulation of Qi is more general, and you can practice on yourself as long as you can reach your feet. While not totally necessary, it is helpful to understand TCM so that you know why you are massaging certain points.
Important point:
The “healing arts” are not a substitutes for conventional care. They are used as a complement to, or in conjunction with, (not a replacement for) necessary medical treatment. They cannot cure cancer, diabetes, MS, heart disease, or any other serious medical condition, injury, or illness. They can, however, relieve some of the pain or symptoms caused by medical or psychological conditions. They can also stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself.
As you might expect, Western Reflexologists are much easier to find. Can one find a Chinese Reflexologist in North America? Yes, if you know where to search! There are some in Canada and California, for sure. If you are interested, it might be worth the search!
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