Foot massage is based on foot reflexology, which is the process of applying pressure on certain points on the foot, called reflex points, report podiatrists at Dr. Foot. Foot reflexology follows the premise that there are points on the foot that lead directly through the body to the head, touching all major organs along the way. While foot massage is not designed to heal or cure illness like reflexology is, many of the benefits are still received. The main benefit of a foot massage is to relax and pamper the recipient.
Prepare
Because relaxation is the key design of a foot massage, the massage recipient should be in a comfortable position to receive the massage. The foot being rubbed should be resting on a pillow or in the lap of the massager. The atmosphere should be conducive to relaxation, either quiet with dimmed lighting or with some meditative music playing in the background. The feet should be clean and dry. Podiatrists at Dr. Foot recommend soaking the feet in Epsom salts first to draw out any impurities. Lotion or essential oil should be warmed or at room temperature before starting. Pour a small amount of oil into your hands and rub them together so that all your fingers are coated with oil before the massage.
Stroke
Stroking is a good way to begin a massage because it stimulates the blood and gets the circulation going. Start on the top of the foot using your thumbs to move in a slow, firm path from the toes to the ankles. Continue stroking with your thumb back and forth five times between the ankle and the toes, holding firmly to the bottom of the foot with your fingers. Lighten your strokes near the toes since the skin is thinner and the tendons more sensitive in that area.
Finger Walk
Hold the foot upright with one hand and walk your fingers over the bottom on the foot with the other hand. Start underneath the big toe and apply pressure with your fingers horizontally underneath the toes. Visualize lines across the foot and move your fingers to the next line and repeat the horizontal pressure. Go back and forth across each line until you reach the end of the heel.
Toes
Give the toes individual attention for a complete foot massage. Use your fingers and your thumb and gently rub between each toe. Wiggle each toe after rubbing by holding on to the toe and moving it back and forth. Hold the toe by the base and gently give it a tug after wriggling.
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