Correct way for Foot Massage

Foot massage benefits the body in a number of ways. It soothes emotions, improves circulation and even promotes detoxification. In spite of this, few people receive routine foot massages. Time and finances can get in the way, making frequent professional massages an impossibility. Learning a few easy massage techniques can be the solution. With practice, an invigorating and economical self massage can become a refreshing part of daily foot care.

Step 1

Sit on the floor or in a comfortable chair with back support. Bring your right foot onto your lap, resting it on the knee. Put a small amount of lotion or foot cream on the palm of the hand and rub hands together. Starting at the ankle, smooth lotion in long downward strokes toward your toes. Repeat this until lotion has been applied to your entire foot and ankle area.

Step 2

Lace your fingers between your toes, separating them and applying several gentle squeezes of pressure. Unlace your fingers and grasp your toes in one hand. Alternately stretch toes upward toward your ankle and then flex downward. Stretch and contract the ball of your foot five times with this technique.

Step 3

Place your hands on opposite sides of your foot. Your thumbs should be next to one another on the ball of your foot and pointing toward the base of your toes. Fan your fingers across the top of your foot for support. Alternately press and release the pads of your thumbs against the ball of your foot, moving back and forth until the entire ball of your foot has been covered three times.

Step 4

Continue to support your foot with fanned fingers and move your thumbs to the area just above your heel. Push long upward strokes across your arch and middle section of your foot with the pads of your thumbs. Repeat the movement, moving back and forth until the section has been covered three times.

Step 5

Slide your hands down your foot to the heel. Press and release the pads of your thumbs against it, moving back and forth in a horizontal pattern. Cover the heel surface with this movement. Repeat three times.

Step 6

Place your fanned fingers on the top of your foot. Your fingertips should sit at the base of your toes. Move your fingertips in small circles for several seconds, draw upward one finger-width. Move your fingertips in small circles again. Repeat this, slowly moving upward until reaching your ankle. Remove your right foot from your lap and repeat the entire process on your left foot.

Tips and Warnings

•  Massage after a bath or foot soak, if possible. Use a light touch, especially in the arch and midsection of your foot. Keep massage movements slow.

• Massage should never take the place of medical therapy. People with medical conditions and women who are pregnant should consult with their health-care provider before using massage therapy. Do not perform massage on open, inflamed or injured areas.

Things You'll Need

    Chair

    Lotion or moisturizing cream