Are you one of those peoplewho just worry about being slim and having a good face? Do you take care of your body and your skin? Hey! Arent you forgetting something? How about pampering your feet?
Imagine what your poor feet are going through! They carry you everywhere and bear the weight you are trying to lose. They tolerate the stress of running around in high heels. But usually feet are the most neglected part of the body. The poor darlings deserve some pampering too!
A foot massage is the most relaxing gift you can give yourself, or to someone else. But it is important to be aware of the right technique of relieving tension through a foot massage. A foot massage may be given to you by a friend/partner, or you may even treat your own feet to one. It is an easy procedure that can be carried out at home. You just need a couple of towels and some oils/creams.
Clean-Up: The first step is to clean the feet thoroughly. Soak the feet in warm water for about 10 minutes. You may want to use some essential oils or bath salts or even plain old shampoo to aid the cleaning up. Scrubbing is not a bad idea if the feet are too dirty.
Stroking: Take some warm lotion/cream/oil in your hands and start the massage therapy on one foot. Move your hands in firm strokes from the tip of the big toe to the ankle. Now slide your hands back towards the toe. Apply more pressure towards the ankles. Repeat these strokes 3-5 times to increase circulation.
Ankle Movement: Hold the heel of the foot in one hand and the ball of the foot in the other. Now move the foot slowly at the ankle 3-5 times. Repeat the movement in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. With a couple of massages, the stiffness will begin to go away. This is very helpful for people with arthritis.
Toe work: Hold the foot from beneath the arch. Now hold one toe between your fingers and thumb. Slowly pull the toe forward, simultaneously sliding your fingers from the base to the top. Repeat 3-5 times for each toe.
Kneading Those Soles: Knead the foot as you knead the dough. Be more gentle though coz the foot is not as adaptable as dough. Apply pressure on all parts of the sole, paying enough attention to the arches as well.
Stroking: Repeat the second step again.
Cleaning Up: Wipe off any excess oil or cream with a towel. Lock the moisture in by wearing warm comfortable cotton socks. In summers, clean slippers will also do.
