This is a great move to relax an entire area. With a closed hand, use the length of the fingers in the fist from the second rim of joints to the knuckles. Gently press in as though kneading dough. (See FIGURE 6-2 below)

The hand moves over the area in a steady rhythmic movement. As the press relaxes the area, you can gently rotate the closed fist, getting in even closer and deeper. Always use an even, slow motion with a kneading, circular style. Do not move quickly with this technique; take your time.

FIGURE 6-2 The knuckle press is a kneading movement that relaxes large, tough areas.

Let your fisted hands rest down on a tabletop. The fingertips are tucked into the palms, with the second section of your fingers actually resting on the table. Lean your fists up onto the points of the second joints. Now roll from those joints forward, so that the next section of your fingers is now resting on the table. Looking down at your hands, you can see the fingertips bending up toward you. Practice rolling back up on the joints and back down on the fingers. This is kneading.

A gentle knuckle press up and down the sole of the foot brings deep relaxation. The press is affecting all the reflexes, allowing for great release. Each time you press into the foot with the knuckles, the message is clear: You are helping the foot relax, and therefore the receiver lets go.

The knuckle press is effective in warming up the lung area. Commonly known as the lung press, reflexologists use the flat outside of the fisted fingers and press the entire region. This press is helpful when working on the heel, enabling the giver to relax the entire heel area. Pressing on the heel with the knuckle press relaxes the sciatic line and the lower body as well.