5 Ways to Strengthen Your Respiratory System at Home with Reflexology

I had suffered from a chronic cough since I was a child, most likely due to my father being a heavy smoker growing up. My cough would come back every year and last 3 or 4 months at a time. My Shanghainese family called it the “hundred-day cough.”

I tried everything including syrups, supplements, eliminating certain foods, but all their effects were temporary. Then during my college years, a friend took me to a reflexologist for an hour of treatment targeting my respiratory and immune systems. I saw him regularly for about a year, and one day my cough disappeared and never came back. I have been a believer of reflexology benefits ever since.

With general health being the most important thing right now, especially respiratory health, we are searching for additional ways to help our bodies prevent or combat illnesses. I thought I would share my knowledge and experience about this remedy.

Reflexology is the application of acupressure to particular points on your body, most commonly hands and feet and, in some cases ears, where there are the most amount of nerve endings. Reflexology zones are determined by meridian maps used in traditional Chinese medicine. Each pressure point in particular zones acts as a little gatekeeper of meridians pathways, where Qi (energy) travels. Applying acupressure to certain reflexology zones stimulate the flow of Qi, helps blood circulation, and signals the brain to heal corresponding areas of the body. (See foot reflexology chart down below. Lung/chest zones indicated in blue)

While nothing beats a customized reflexology session with a therapist, there may be some challenges right now for an in-person visit. Fortunately, there are many ways you can enjoy the benefits of reflexology without leaving your home.

Note: To fully reap the benefit of the below methods, take slow deep breaths while applying pressure to your hands or feet so you are in a relaxed state as much as possible.

1. Electric Foot Massager

Insert feet, sit back, and relax. This massager has additional features such as 6 intensity settings, heat treatment, and automatic shutoff. It will give your body an overall destress and detox in a matter of 15 minutes.

Shown above: Daiwa Felicity Electric Reflexology Foot Massager

2. Rose quartz acupressure wand

If you prefer to go straight to targeted areas then using a stone reflexology wand may be your best tool. There are many varieties out there, such as this rose quartz wand.

Use a couple drops of sesame oil and spread over areas you want to massage. Traditionally sesame oil is used but you can use any essential oils of your choice.

Starting with the larger tip, move gently in tiny circular motions, increasing pressure slowly and steadily. As you approach creases and canals, switch to the smaller tip and use a back and forth motion. Apply as much pressure as you can tolerate.

Shown above: JOVIVI Handmade Natural Rose Quartz Massage Tool

3. Reflexology sandals

These sandals really work, and are actually stylish! But they take a little getting used to. If you are new to wearing reflexology sandals, you will want to ease into them slowly. Since your entire body weight is pressing down on your feet you will feel the stimulation more intensely. Start with 3 minutes at a time, then gradually increase your wear to 10-15 minutes. Eventually, you may be able to wear them all day around the house.

Shown above: BYRIVER Acupressure Foot Massage Slippers

4. Reflexology Mat

This is one of the easiest, most versatile ways to enjoy reflexology. This plastic mat can be placed just about anywhere and is easy to transport from room to room. Step onto it for the duration and pressure to your comfort level.

Shown above: Kanjo Acupressure Foot Pain Relief Mat

5. DIY Reflexology garden

You can create a simple and elegant reflexology garden with natural stones, whether in your yard or a tiny corner of your home. Spread out a pile of large rounded river rocks into an area large enough for both your feet, ideally on top of grass, sand, soil, plush carpet, or any other texture that will help stabilize the rocks. Make sure they don’t stack on top of each other. 

With or without wearing socks, take a slow stroll on top of the rocks and enjoy the gentle massage.

You can make the rock arrangement as big as you like. Try putting them in a sandbox, or blend them into a cactus garden. Get creative and have fun!

Shown above: Rain Forest Black Super Polished Pebbles