subject: Foot Massage Relieve Hurts Sooner [print this page] In a world where all we do is stand, run, walk and lift - our feet support us all day long. While being in shoes and socks all day, we restrict circulation and air contact. One of the most thoughtful gifts I ever received was the gift of a foot rub. These days there are seats everywhere where we simply insert a quarter and our feet will get rubbed and jiggled, leaving us quite like we just experienced an earthquake. Nothing beats the genuine human touch. So, now, why a foot massage?
This is not a new medical breakthrough, no, this art has been practiced throughout the world. Chinese records dating back 5,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments; and even Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue that enhances function and promotes blood flow.
In our modern world, we are used to running to our pharmacist for relief, and to our traditional M.D. for a cure. However, there are also many massage therapists exist in the United States. Not only have we borrowed from different cultures, but we have created some of our own. One form of massage is foot massage.
A foot massage can be given with socks on, but the feeling will be much better if they are bare. You will start by sitting with your feet up, or on a mat. Hopefully they are clean, if not, your masseuse will discretely clean them with a wipe or wet cloth. He/she will then most likely use some sort of oil, and make the room clean and comfortable with dim atmosphere, candles and scents. Be sure to let him/her know, as you don't want to spend the whole foot massage laughing. There are certain feathery touches that they will avoid. You will be seated with your feet up, or on a massage table.
Foot massage begins with a footbath and is done with the fingers, hands and a small wooden dowel dipped in lotion. It involves both the sides and soles of the feet as well as the energy lines of the lower leg. A benefit experienced by everyone who experiences a foot massage is relaxation. It is a major stress-relieving technique. Numerous medical studies show that decreased stress levels improve the overall health of the body and mind.
Foot massage begins with a footbath and is done with the fingers, hands and a sometimes a small wooden dowel dipped in lotion. A benefit experienced by everyone who experiences a foot massage is relaxation. It is a major stress-relieving technique. Numerous medical studies show that decreased stress levels improve the overall health of the body and mind. A scientific study was performed on heart surgery patients and it showed that there was a significant decrease in levels of stress after a foot massage. Reducing stress levels can help the body in many ways, mentally and physically as well. While a professional massage therapist is the best way to receive one, it is not always easy to get a foot massage on a regular basis. An alternative way to receive foot massage benefits is to purchase scientifically designed foot massage units for home use.
