There are 26 bones in the human foot. All motor activity falls on it, which means the feet require special attention, since they contain a large number of nerve endings. That is why the main goal of foot massage is relaxation. Maximum effort during the massage is focused on warming up all the joints and restoring their elasticity and mobility.
The foot is the main "shock absorber," notable not only for its strength but also for its flexibility, and this quality guarantees the precise functioning of the joints. Another relevant issue is restoring good blood flow. Immobility and excessive strain negatively affect circulation, contributing to the appearance of swelling.
Beneficial Properties
Foot massage, as it's called in our spa salon, is a wonderful and inexpensive method for boosting blood flow and restoring strength. This is because, thanks to improved oxygen saturation in the blood, the body's cells receive better nourishment. The massage also relieves spasms and tension in the muscles and tendons, and restores normal blood supply. Cell nutrition also improves, and lactic acid — which causes the feeling of intense soreness and fatigue — is flushed out.
In the human body, all organs and tissues interact with one another. By affecting a specific nerve ending, it's possible to simultaneously boost the function of the organ connected to it. A large number of such points are located on the palms and soles of the feet. By working on certain areas, it's possible to stimulate the function of the kidneys, heart, brain, and liver. Excessive stimulation of nerve endings can trigger the release of endorphins.
Types of Massage
- Thai: main feature — relaxation.
- Acupressure: main feature — treatment of internal organs.
- Chinese: main feature — stimulation of energy points.
- Reflexology: main feature — strengthening the immune system.
- Therapeutic: main feature — treatment of injuries and defects.
Preparing for the Massage
- The procedure should be performed 2 hours after eating.
- Drink 2 glasses of water before starting.
- It's best to perform the routine before bed.
- Wash your feet before the procedure.
- Try to be relaxed, so the effect of the massage is more noticeable.
- After the procedure, go to sleep for full relaxation.
Classic Massage Technique
- Sit on the floor with your legs straight; try placing your left foot onto your right shin. This movement is fairly difficult to perform, but the main thing is the effort — once the left foot rests on the right shin, move it upward toward the right knee, as if rubbing the leg. Then repeat the movement with the right foot.
- "Fan-fist." Spread your toes as wide apart as possible, then form a "fist." Simply try to bring your toes together with the foot as much as possible, doing this with effort, and hold your toes in a "fist" position for 5-6 seconds. Each of these exercises should be done 40 times.
To finish the procedure, sitting on the floor, place your left leg on your right thigh. With your left palm, press and stroke the sole of your right foot, gradually increasing the pressure, and reducing the pressure during the final movements. Then repeat, but use your fist instead of your palm. Place your right leg on your left thigh and repeat the exercise. All these techniques can be useful for everyone, as they not only promote relaxation but also affect the body's biological points. Foot massage can also help with issues from prolonged high-heel wear, flat feet, and other conditions.