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What is finger massage? Massage of points on the fingers of the hand with the aim of achieving greater flexibility and mobility, because the fingers are responsible for certain organs in the body. The methods derive from shiatsu or reflexology, but also from the Indian traditional hastas. Shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique that works with acupuncture channels and restores the flow of energy. Similarly reflexology, which is based on the American method of acupressure, also focuses on pressing specific points on the feet or hands. Both methods are very effective; you can try elements derived from these types of massages and hastas at home as well—get inspired by some exercises and you will be surprised how your health improves!
Finger flexibility indicates the condition of internal organs
Prominent shiatsu expert N. Tekuhiro shows how significant finger massage is. Trained and flexible fingers also have a beneficial effect on the whole body. The more delicate the work they perform, the more the brain is used and the more mental processes take place. The overall suppleness and mobility of the fingers symbolize the condition of the internal organs and, according to shiatsu, also influence them through feedback. That is why it is necessary to unblock the flows of energy between the individual organs in the body in order to create an energetic framework for the healthy functioning of the organism.
Regular finger exercises
Individual fingers are connected with certain organs:
- first finger – the brain and its activity;
- second – the stomach;
- third – the intestines;
- fourth – the liver;
- fifth – the heart.
It is no coincidence that people with heart diseases have weak fingers and have difficulty bending and relaxing them; therefore finger massage is important for patients with a poor cardiovascular system.
Hastas for stress relief
Like shiatsu or reflexology, finger massages also appear in Indian yoga. The specific therapeutic methods of finger massage are called hastas and they allow targeted treatment and normalization of internal organs. These exercises are suitable for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and can relieve stress. Hasta resembles “finger counting.” For this purpose, place your hands palms on each other at a short distance and then alternately bend the fingers while simultaneously making circular movements with the hands away from the body.
Additional exercises and massage practices:
- For headaches and high blood pressure, sequential overlapping of the fingers helps: the fourth over the fifth, the third over the fourth, and gradually repeat with the others. Then repeat the exercise in reverse order. It is necessary to perform it with both hands at the same time.
- In cases of illness or deterioration of hearing, bend the middle finger so that it touches the thumb rested on a surface and press on it with the bent middle finger. The other fingers should remain straight, but not tense. Ideally hold this position for 2–3 minutes and repeat the exercise several times.
- Troubled by back and joint pain or rheumatism? Bend the index finger so that the underside of the finger touches the lower part of the thumb, press slightly, straighten the other fingers and relax. Repeat for 10–15 minutes. The pain will subside within a few hours after the exercise.
- To restore appetite, on the contrary, squeeze the sides of the thumbs by crossing them into the palm and bend the fingers into the palms. Again, perform the exercise 2 or 3 times a day for 15 minutes.
After all exercises, gently massage the fingers and relax them.
