How To Do Feet Massage

Feet massage is probably one of the most condensed massage techniques. By working on an small area, you will not only relax and invigorate the feet muscles, but the whole body will get the benefits of a feet massage because of the high number of reflex points present in this zone.

Feet Massage

Feet massage is probably one of the most condensed massage techniques. By working on an small area, you will not only relax and invigorate the feet muscles, but the whole body will get the benefits of a feet massage because of the high number of reflex points present in this zone.

Feet Massage ReflexologyFeet Massage and Reflexology

Foot massage is getting more and more attention as a great way to relax and unwind. Massaging the feet will stimulate certain reflex points, which in turn will help balancing internal organs, the endocrine system, the brain, and the body as a whole.

Feet massage is an entire science by itself, reflexology dedicates massaging the feet a major role because of the impressive number of reflex points on the feet.

When massaging the feet your partner/subject needs to lie on the back, or sit on a comfortable chair. If the partner sits on a chair the foot should rest on an ottoman or in your lap. Foot massage requires a lot of massage oil or lotion, however you need to carefully time your massage oil usage, as many of the techniques, such as the static compressions, will be more difficult to perform with too much oil. On the other hand, the deeper gliding techniques will require more oil than the average to avoid irritation of the skin.

Depending on the desired effect and your subject’s physical constitution, feet massage can range from the deepest compressions that are painful to the lightest effleurage, intended for an erotic massage session. In some Far Eastern massage schools, foot massage is a vigorous work, which many people find unbearable. The concept behind this approach is that by causing pain in a reflex point, we will trigger a response from the brain, which will affect both the massage spot and the targeted zone.

Feet Massage Device

Feet Massager

Deep Kneading Shiatsu Foot Massager

 

Do you need a feet massage often? Maybe the best option for you is a foot massager. The “Deep Kneading Shiatsu Foot Massager” from The Sharper Image, is a great replacement for a massage therapist. I am usually very skeptical to use massage devices, and in my experience the human touch is best. However, this foot massager is as good as any massage practitioner, and the great thing about it is that it never gets tired.

If you try this massager you will never stop loving it.

Foot Massage Techniques

Foot massage uses a restricted set of the Swedish massage adapted to the special anatomic configuration. Furthermore the techniques will be selected and adapted based on the needs of the massaged person and context. The most effective techniques on the feet will be the deep massage on pressopuncture points, however some people will prefer more gentle and relaxing procedures such as effleurage.

Foot EffleurageEffleurage on the Foot

Start your massage by applying oil on the entire foot. Your massage will begin with a medium pressure effleurage on the entire foot. This basically means to glide over the foot’s surface using the palm or the heel of the palm. The direction of gliding is towards the ankle.

Foot Reflexology Techniques

Continue the gliding using more pressure. On the plantar surface, gradually start using fists and knuckles with deeper pressure. On the foot arch glide using thumbs or the side of the palm. Start gliding your thumbs on the plantar surface to find painful or bumpy spots. A painful spot is a sign that there is an imbalance and massaging the problem spot will alleviate the illness, or it will make it disappear before starting. Once the painful spot found, use your index, or middle finger knuckle to apply static compression to the point. You can make a small circle, but without gliding on the skin. Glide with your index on the upper side of the foot, between the foot’s bones, the phalanges and metatarsals. This is a place with a few reflex points so insist on it.

Feet Massage Techniques Video