subject: Foot Massage Relieve Muscle Spasms More Effectively [print this page] Indeed, you may ask, why do I need a foot massage. All of us, all day long standing, running, lifting, walking - our poor feet. They support us all day, clad in heavy shoes and socks, restricting circulation, keeping air from our feet. Why not feel the human touch of a foot massage. Not just sitting in a chair where we insert a quarter for our feet to be shaken around, but someone genuinely qualified in making us feel better. I highly recommend giving the gift of foot massage, either to yourself or a loved one!
If you think think this is something new, think again. Neither is new, nor is it limited to a single culture. Chinese records dating back 5,000 years document its use; Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments. Massages are applied in a variety of methods - some 250 methods of tapping, kneading, applying pressure, etc, the list goes on. Tissue and muscles are massaged, while the skin is gently rubbed to enhance blood flow.
In the modern United States we now use many different kinds of massage therapies, each of which offers specific benefits to the mind and body. One of these forms is foot massage. It is possible to give a foot massage with socks on, but the bare-footed person will receive a better one. If your feet are not clean, they should be wiped them off with a wet cloth or wipe. They will use oil or scented lotion. The atmosphere should be comfortable. The room will be dim and relaxed with candles and scents. Make sure the masseuse knows if you are ticklish, and he/she will avoid certain feathery movements. You will be in a chair with feet on a footstool, or on a massage table.
As with all forms of massage, there are a variety of foot massage techniques. Thai Foot Massage or reflexology is one form. Reflexology originates from an ancient Chinese system and is based on the notion that there are nerve endings in the soles of the feet that correspond to all of the organs of the body such as the liver, kidney or spleen. The gentle and repeated massage of these pressure points stimulates and detoxifies the internal organs and improves circulation to the problem area.
There is a huge variety of foot massage (as you will find with all sorts of massage). Reflexology is one form. Reflexology originates from an ancient Chinese system and is based on the notion that there are nerve endings in the soles of the feet that correspond to all of the organs of the body such as the liver, kidney or spleen. The gentle and repeated massage of these pressure points stimulates and detoxifies the internal organs and improves circulation to the problem area.
Stress relief is the major benefit experienced by everyone who has a foot massage. There are even some studies that prove that stress levels can be decreased, and the overall health of the body and mind can increase. Numerous medical studies show that decreased stress levels improve the overall health of the body and mind, mentally and physically as well. It is always better to have a massage therapist do it, but if this is impossible, it possible to purchase a foot massage unit designed for use in the home! Why not try it?
