Our feet never stop working. Whether walking, running or just standing, there is no lack of time spent on one’s feet. Yup, our feet are under constant strain and the best way to show them a little appreciation is by a simple foot massage once in a while.
Like our neck, back, and shoulders, our feet also need a little pampering, and what can be better than a soothing foot massage? Those who have received a foot massage know how relaxing it can feel at the end of a long, tiring day. If done regularly, foot massages can help lessen stress and relieve foot pain, but the benefits of regular foot massages don’t just stop there. There are many benefits of a regular foot massage; some may even shock you.
Let’s look at four ways how a simple foot massage can change your life for the better:
- Helps Fight Depression
Did you know that a foot massage can even help fight depression? A soothing foot massage provides consolation and helps people adapt to changes in life.
There are certain points on the feet that help reduce depression symptoms. For example, the point in the center of the big toe, the center of the ball of your foot, or the ball of the foot located under the big toe are all connected to emotional stability and mental health. So try to massage these spots or apply pressure to them for a few minutes at least 2 or 3 times a day. Doing something as simple as this can help relieve symptoms of depression.
- Lowers Blood Pressure
Along with improving circulation, a regular foot massage can effectively control high blood pressure, also called HBP or hypertension. Studies have also found it may help reduce systolic blood pressure and triglyceride.
It is important to massage the solar plexus reflex to treat HBP. This reflex point can be easily found by squeezing each side of your foot. The solar plexus point is at the hollow formed.
First, press this reflex point for a few seconds with your thumb. Then, take a deep breath. After a few seconds, release the thumb and breathe out. Repeat the same procedure on the other foot. Continue this twice a week for several weeks.
For best results, massage your entire foot for 10 minutes 2 or 3 times a week. You will surely notice improved mood, less anxiety, and lower blood pressure.
- Relieves Aches and Pains
Did you know you could get rid of body aches and pain through a foot massage? Reflexology helps treat many different types of pains and aches, such as headaches, migraines, neck pain, lower and upper backaches.
Gently massage along the spinal reflex with your thumb for backaches. Start from the side of the toe to the ankle using small circular motions. Massage the soles and tops of your feet as well.
To get rid of neck pain, massage the toes and the joints that join the toes to the foot for 5 minutes. The pain will soon vanish.
To reduce pain and swelling in the ankle and get relief from headaches and migraines, you can massage the whole ankle.
To get relief from thigh pain or lower back pain, apply pressure with your thumb between the outer ankle bone and the Achilles tendon for a few minutes.
- Alleviates Edema
Edema is the swelling of the feet and ankles due to fluid retention. It is a very common symptom during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. A regular foot massage during pregnancy can help reduce the effects of edema. However, do not do your foot massage during pregnancy. It is recommended to get the massage done by a friend, partner, or professional. A qualified reflexologist is perfect for the job.
Starting from the tips of your fingers to your ankles, gently massage your foot. Massage both sides of your feet.
A massage with some warm massage oil is extremely beneficial. This can be easily done by rubbing from the toes proximally, or toward the knee. By doing this, you encourage the fluid accumulated in the feet to return toward the kidneys and flushed out of the body.
