subject: Foot Massage Relieve Muscle Spasms More Effectively [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.
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?
