Foot massage has been practiced for hundreds of years and is found in many cultures. It is commonly used to promote health and calm the body. Nowadays, most types of foot massage incorporate aspects from a range of disciplines, including shiatsu and reflexology. These traditions hold that by applying pressure to the more than 7,000 nerves in the foot, energy obstructions in the rest of the body can be released. Foot massage and reflexology can be used to relieve pain, reduce tension, and possibly speed up injury healing.
Foot massages are traditionally conducted using the hands, however treatments may occasionally incorporate the use of sticks or rollers to more effectively stimulate the reflex zones in the foot.
A foot massage, whether given to oneself or received from a reflexology practitioner, may be a satisfying complementary massage therapy that benefits your entire body.
The Advantages of a Foot Massage
Foot massage has several potential advantages, including:
A sense of equilibrium and well-being
A foot massage may assist to calm the entire body, allowing you to sleep better and leave you with renewed energy to face the day.
improved circulation
Massaging the extremities improves blood circulation throughout the body, boosting cell repair and development.
A decrease in cortisol
Firm pressure on the solar plexus region of the foot is supposed to cause a decline in cortisol, the body's stress hormone.
Foot Massage at Home
Although it's best to seek out a professional to demonstrate the technique, you may also give yourself or a friend a foot massage at home. Follow these steps:
Clean your feet (and dry them well)
Apply lotion or oil to your hands, being sure to cover the fingers and palms.
Rub your feet all over, paying special attention to the spaces between your toes.
Hold the top of each foot with both hands and make little circular circles with your thumbs on each toe, making your way down to the base of your foot and all the way up to your ankle.
Repeat on the bottom of your foot. You can afford to apply a little more pressure.
here! Begin from the top of the toes and work your way down to the heel.
You may also loosen up the joints by twisting and rotating your foot and toes.
Press firmly yet softly on the foot pad. Reflexology points can be found here. A map can be used to target certain locations.
Rep the preceding steps with the opposite foot.
