Foot Care
Do you know that the most overworked part of our body is our feet? Every day as we go through our daily toil, all those hassle and bustle of these modern days we often overlook our feet. Now it’s time to give them the long-overdue pampering it deserves!
Foot massage is the best way to release all tensions and make tired feet feel much better. Massage oils are now widely available. Some of the most popular oils to use for de-stressing are created with lavender, chamomile, melissa, geranium and bergamot oils. For relieve of tired and aching muscles a blend of rosemary, juniper, thyme, birch, and chamomile is highly recommended.
The steps below will show you how to give yourself or your loved ones a foot massage you will truly enjoy!
First to create an atmosphere for a very relaxing massage, try to find a quiet area where you will not be disturbed. You may put on some soft music and light some scented candles. Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes. You may wish to include drops of your favorite essential oil. Many prefer peppermint or lavender oil. Make sure feet are completely dry before starting massage.
Step 1
Lay or sit back and start to relax. The idea is to lie down comfortably, like a massage table, bed or sofa, where feet can extend slightly over the edge. It is best to place a pillow under the knees to help support the lower back. Use a towel underneath the feet for any excess oil.
Position yourself at their feet, with the toes at about chest level. Massage one foot at a time. Keep the other foot wrapped in a towel to keep the foot warm.
Step 2
Apply a moderate amount of favorite oil. Place a small quantity of oil in a cupped hand and warm it by rubbing it between both hands. Spread the oil over the foot up to the ankle by using light even strokes.
Step 3
Start by stroking top of foot, between cords located on top of foot at instep. Move in the direction toe to ankle. Then, continue by gently stroking sole of foot, gradually increasing pressure. Taking the foot in both hands, twists by pulling forward the heel of one hand while gently pushing away with the other. Start at the top near the toes then work way down to the heel then back up again. Repeat 3 Times. Place the outside hand on the topside of the foot for support, and extend the second knuckle of the index finger of the other hand. Now press the foot between the two hands, while rotating the knuckle by turning the wrist. Move the knuckle down and repeat. Do this on the entire sole of the foot.
Step 4
Create circular motions using your thumb and fingers over the sole of the foot, while using more pressure on the heel or ball of the foot. Start from the top and include the sides as you work your way down.
Step 5
Hold foot with one hand and gently rotate using the other hand. Do this first at the ankle, and then near the ball of the foot. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
Step 6
Make a fist and press the sole using moderate pressure. Take notice of the arch.
Step 7
Taking each toe individually, begin with the big toe and work to the pinky toe. Roll the toe between your thumb and forefinger while applying gentle pressure. Gently squeeze the end of each toe.
Step 8
Take your index finger and slide it between each toe about 5 times. To complete the massage, use your thumb and fingers to make the circular motions once again over the sole.
Step 9
End by stroking the sole and instep. Finishing at the base of the toes, slowly tug, twist and pull on each toe, moving inwards from the outer toes. Repeating the foot twists, but this time slowly lighten pressure with each twist until the hands lightly lift off the foot.
References:
www.wikihow.com › … › Spa Treatments & Massages
www.videojug.com/film/how-to-give-a-stress-relieving-foot–massage
http://www.chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com/foot-massage-techniques.html
http://www.righthealth.com/topic/How_To_Massage_Technique?p=l&as=goog&ac=404
