Initially, the art of foot massage was available only to practitioners. oriental medicine, and then safely passed to the Europeans. It has constantly developed and today everyone can relax the muscles of the feet with massaging movements and give the legs a rest after a busy day.
Peculiarities
Let's start with a little anatomical digression. Our foot is the distal part of the lower limb, which is made up of twenty-six bones and thirty-three joints. The foot provides us with freedom of movement, the ability to maintain balance and resistance to various movements.
The longitudinal and transverse arch of the foot "unload" the lower limbs, pelvis and spine. The correct position of the foot is provided not only by muscles and blood vessels. The foot is supported by 107 ligaments, 31 tendons, and 70,000 nerve endings.
The latter form reflexogenic zones associated with the work of internal organs and body systems. It is no coincidence that the feet are a direct reflection of our health, since their condition indicates the presence of diseases. So, the skin of the feet of a white shade “speaks” of anemia, and red - of the presence of diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. Wet and cold feet "signal" about thyroid diseases, and hot feet can be signs of hypertension or atherosclerosis.
It is not uncommon for malaise to respond with pain in the feet. They can often be removed with correct technique massage: point pressure, rubbing "spiral" and patting movements, stroking movements with pressure.
Often the procedure begins with calm strokes and ends with them. Thus, you not only relieve tension from the muscles of the legs, but also improve the health of the whole organism.
Before moving on to the intricacies of massage techniques, let's see how useful this type of medical procedure is.
Benefit
A beneficial effect on the body allows the use of massage as an auxiliary therapy. With its help, such orthopedic pathologies as flat feet, valgus foot, spurs or arthrosis are corrected. Foot massage is often prescribed in the presence of the first signs of varicose veins and atherosclerosis. In diabetic patients, it helps to prevent a number of complications, including "diabetic foot".
Ten to twenty minutes a day of soothing foot massage improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, and relieves migraines. Light massaging movements reduce anxiety, help to relax and improve sleep. Massage relieves the symptoms of PMS in women, and men resort to this reflexology in order to prevent diseases of the pelvic organs. Regardless of gender, stroking movements improve general condition, rejuvenate the body, normalize metabolic processes and improve mood.
Foot massage is indispensable for athletes and everyone who leads an active lifestyle.
After all, it reduces the risk of injuries to the feet and ankle joints, helps to improve athletic performance. If trouble has already happened, it is possible to speed up recovery and relieve pain in the injured muscle by stroking and rubbing.
Harm
With all the pluses, massage is a physiotherapy procedure, which is not allowed for everyone.
- Reflexology is absolutely contraindicated for patients suffering from mental disorders, cholelithiasis and dermatological diseases.
- Massaging is unacceptable in the presence of gangrene and convulsive syndrome, trophic ulcers and thrombophlebitis.
- With tuberculosis, diseases of the blood system, oncology, it is also prohibited. Fever or exacerbation of a chronic disease is also a direct contraindication.
In addition to complete bans on the procedure, there are a number of time limits.
- The reason for the ban on massage for a pregnant woman is increased tone uterus. Also, women are prohibited from physiotherapy in the presence of phioma or cysts. Any massaging movements may be contraindicated in hypertension, varicose veins and diabetes.
- Diseases of the foot joints, a tendency to bleeding, an allergy in the acute stage, or the consequences of a myocardial infarction are also not indications for performing massage procedures.
Do not self-medicate, contact your treating specialist and consult with him, because each case is individual.
If medicine gives the go-ahead, start massaging, following all the doctor's recommendations. If during the massage the foot hurts, and after the procedure the feeling of discomfort does not leave you, give up any kind of pressing, rubbing and stroking and do not delay going to the doctor.
Kinds
If you set out to improve your health and the well-being of loved ones with the help of foot massage, do it taking into account the reflex zones located on the foot.
Their location should be known for a high-quality and complete procedure.
- The center of the heel is projected by the ovaries. If the slightest pressure leads to pain or discomfort, see a gynecologist: it is quite possible that you need to stop the inflammatory process. For men, the center of the heel is massaged to strengthen men's health, the slightest discomfort should also serve as a reason to visit a doctor.
- Active massaging actions aimed at the arch of the foot will help overcome insomnia.
- Symptoms of diseases of the stomach, adrenal glands and kidneys will be facilitated by massaging a point in the depths of the arch.
- Massage of the lateral areas of the soles will “cure” ear ailments. Also, this type of manipulation is useful for a sore throat or bronchial disease.
- With a runny nose and sinusitis, you should actively knead your toes.
- On the foot are peculiar "buttons" that allow you to influence certain organs. So, the thumb is a projection of the pituitary gland, the front of the sole and the arch of the left foot are responsible for the activity of the heart muscle. The latter is additionally stimulated by massaging the protruding area under the thumb.
- The tip of each toe is massaged to get rid of a migraine.
- Manipulations on the fold of the second and third fingers stimulate the optic nerve.
- The central part of the foot is actively involved if the patient suffers from pulmonary, asthmatic diseases or shortness of breath.
Armed with knowledge about the points and reflex zones, proceed to the choice of the type of massage effect.
To date, there are many methods for improving your body, but we will list only the popular ones.
Reflex massage is considered the easiest and most effective. Even ancient Chinese healers found that massaging certain areas provides an influx of Qi - energy that restores health. Therefore, the essence of this massage is to influence certain areas of the foot in order to restore blood flow. This method also helps to eliminate toxins and restore the natural state of tissues. The impact on the zones should be relaxing, and the treatment of the sole itself should take place according to the increasing pressing force.
Surely someone will be interested in the practice of acupressure Japanese massage, called "shiatsu". His technique is performed by rhythmically pressing on the bioactive points of the sole. Shiatsu is designed to boost immunity and speed up the recovery process. However, keep in mind: performing the procedure in this technique requires experience, skills and knowledge. If you want to experience for yourself beneficial features shiatsu, contact an experienced massage therapist.
The Thai technique relieves pain in the feet and fights muscle tension, and also helps to restore the functions of each internal organ.
This happens by massaging the toes, each of which is "responsible" for a specific organ.
- The thumb (namely, its top) projects the work of the liver onto itself, and its lower part, originating at the outer nail edge, is responsible for the work of the spleen and pancreas.
- "General" massage of the thumbs helps to cope with psycho-emotional disorders, migraines, jaundice, gastritis and ulcers.
- Massaging the second finger improves the functioning of the stomach and promotes better absorption of food.
- Energy flows connect the small and large intestines with the third finger, the gallbladder with the fourth. The genitourinary system is connected to the little finger.
Along with Thai, there is an Ayurvedic massage system based on ancient Indian philosophy. Its main postulate is the unity of the spiritual, physical and mental principles, which is achieved by massaging certain areas on the sole of a person. Each zone is associated with one of the elements of the universe. For example, the heel is a projection of the Earth, the arch of the sole - Water. The pads of the feet are associated with the fiery element, the fingers are associated with the Air, and the pads of the fingers are a projection of the Ether.
Indian massage is performed with medicated oil, and for Thai massage techniques, choose creams or aromatic oils, the smell of which has a calming effect on you.
Often, both experienced and novice massage therapists use rose or sandalwood oils. If you prefer essential oils, add them to your chosen base oil. The pleasant aroma of oils inspires you to spend a relaxing or erotic massage when the sole is rubbed with soft light movements, squeezed from the inside and outside and even tingle a little.
The world does not stand still, the development of technology has also affected the usual manual massage. The first devices appeared in the eighteenth century. Well, today there is such a direction as hardware massage, represented by a number of ultrasonic, vibro- and hydro massagers.
The latter are especially popular in beauty salons, where women massage their feet before or after a pedicure procedure. The popularity of acupressure electric massagers, which are a high-quality imitation of popular massage techniques, is growing.
How to do?
Imperceptibly, we came to the fact that independently proceed to the massage. Let's look at the steps of preparing and carrying out the procedure, which will help you perform it correctly.
First of all, take note of a few simple rules.
- Prepare a place for the upcoming massage. The temperature in the room should be comfortable, the chair or sofa should be comfortable.
- Get a roller or pillow to put under your knees. For this purpose, you can tightly roll the towel. If you plan to massage yourself, prepare a comfortable stand.
- The feet are massaged in turn, covering the free leg with a soft towel or warm blanket.
- The maximum benefit from the procedure allows you to extract the use of creams and oils. They are a kind of catalyst for a tonic, relaxing and warming effect. It is also acceptable to use a special cooling cream.
- If a relaxing foot massage is important to you, you can make your own oil. Take castor, olive or soybean oil as a basis (no more than two teaspoons). Three drops of lavender oil and one drop of geranium and chamomile oils are added to it, and then all the ingredients are mixed. The drug is enough for one session, one teaspoon will go to one sole. Before the procedure, the oil should be heated to thirty-seven degrees, and at the end of the massage, put on warm socks.
- Prepare a sofa or chair cover so you don't stain the furniture.
- Evening hours are considered best time for relaxing treatments when you are at home and relaxing after a busy day.
- Massage is not done immediately after a meal: at least an hour should pass from dinner to the start of the session. Just before the session, it is useful to drink a glass of water at room temperature. After the session, you must do the same to help the body remove toxins and toxins.
- Immediately after the massage, you should not smoke, because a relaxed body becomes easily vulnerable to harmful substances.
- Before the massage, they wash their feet and warm their hands: you must admit that the touch of icy palms is not very pleasant.
- Foot massage is performed by stroking, rubbing, kneading and even vibrating manipulations, and you yourself or your potential “client” should feel complete relaxation during the procedure.
The preparatory "work" is completed, let's move on to action. It is best to start with yourself, so consider the simplest self-massage technique.
You should sit comfortably, stretch one leg in front of you, bend the other at the knee and start massaging.
- The top of the sole is relaxed with soft strokes. This warms it up and stimulates blood circulation. Movements need to start from above, and then smoothly “reduce” them towards the ankle. Stroking the top of the foot is performed at least five or six times, and then the bottom of the foot is massaged in the same way.
- To relax the soles and joints, the palm of one hand should clasp the heel, fixing the foot. Grasp the fingertips with your free hand. After that, you gently turn the foot five times from right to left and vice versa.
- When the joints relax, the fingers can be extended. One hand firmly holds the leg under the instep. With the thumb of the second one should press on the lower part of the big toe so that it slowly stretches up. After that, the finger should be rotated around its axis, clasping it with the thumb and forefinger.
Carrying out massage procedures is very simple, but at the same time they are very monotonous.
So that you do not get bored with the performance of the same manipulations, listen to the recommendations of specialists.
- For the study of nerve endings and energy channels stop, you can and should connect improvised materials. For example, you can fill a low-sided box with smooth stones, peas, chestnuts or beans. A purchased rug that imitates sea pebbles is also suitable. Trampling barefoot on such uneven surfaces is an excellent warm-up in itself.
- Do not neglect the usual gymnastics for the legs. This is walking on heels and toes, flexion and extension of the sole. This includes skating. massage ball or trying to pick up an object like a pencil with a bent foot. With regular exercise, these exercises have a strong healing effect and are an excellent prevention of swelling, cramps and venous diseases.
- Ordinary smooth sticks with a diameter of at least four centimeters will help overcome pain, spasms, heaviness and fatigue of the legs. Nothing special is required, just roll them with your feet for two minutes. At the same time, you should not get carried away with the idea of buying special sticks with rounded ends that stimulate biologically active points and are designed for professional use.
- At home, it is permissible to use various roller massagers. They help to warm up the sensitive points of the sole, on which the internal organs are projected. If there is pain in any part of the foot, do not ignore it. Try to see a doctor as soon as possible to start timely treatment. Regular classes destroy the painful hardening, which will speed up the healing process, but continue using the massager only with the permission of the doctor.
- Warm foot baths increase blood circulation and are an excellent prevention of osteochondrosis. They should be performed after a massage before going to bed, because in a dream the body is freed from accumulated toxins, and warm water helps to enhance the cleansing process. The temperature of the water should be forty-fifty degrees, feet are kept in it from fifteen minutes to half an hour.
People who spend a lot of time on their feet or vice versa, move little, just need to periodically massage the lower limbs. Due to low activity, stagnation of blood occurs, which eventually leads to many diseases. A foot or foot massage done in a salon or at home will bring many benefits. Properly performed procedure will relax the muscles, relieve discomfort after a hard day's work, it will prevent the development of many ailments.
What is foot massage
Mechanical effect on tissues lower extremities- this is an excellent prevention of longitudinal or transverse flatfoot and varicose veins. Foot massage is especially useful for a person, because all the load falls on them. Chinese masters have long advanced in mastering massage techniques. Since ancient times, the procedure has been done to save a person from insomnia. Massage movements on the legs contribute to the overall relaxation of the body. After a massage of the lower extremities, nervousness disappears, sleep becomes stable.
The modern technique of foot massage is the impact on the muscles of the knee, hip, ankle joint as well as on the feet and fingers. It is not necessary to contact the professionals in the salon. To get rid of heaviness in the legs, you can ask to massage the feet or other parts of the lower extremities of a loved one, or massage the legs yourself. This unique action heals the entire body as a whole.
Benefit
The main advantage of massage of the lower extremities is the stimulating effect on the whole organism. This effect is achieved due to the fact that on the legs and feet is the most a large number of important reflex points, each of which is responsible for the work of a particular organ. For example, several nerve endings responsible for the condition of the spine are located on the arch of the foot. By stimulating them, you can get rid of back pain. Massage of the toes has a positive effect on the gums, teeth, eyes, heart, ears and sinuses.
Indications
Doctors advise to regularly carry out a variety of massage techniques for the legs, and especially for the feet, to restore the functions of the digestive tract, with nausea, arrhythmias, and for the prevention of acute respiratory infections. In addition, massage of the lower extremities helps with:
- problems of the musculoskeletal system;
- circulatory disorders;
- diseases of the reproductive system;
- kidney pathology;
- depressive disorders.
Contraindications
No matter how useful the massage procedure is, it also has contraindications. There are few absolutes - the acute stage of any ailment and fungus on the legs. The remaining contraindications are relative, that is, they require consultation with a doctor and a cautious approach:
- oncology of any etiology;
- phlebeurysm;
- pregnancy;
- osteoporosis;
- pathology of the small joints of the foot;
- diabetes.
If you make your own decision about massage under these conditions, then serious health complications can arise. During pregnancy, during the stimulating effect on the feet, relaxation of the uterine muscles occurs, in which there is a risk of premature birth (miscarriage). Some malignant tumors can also be activated by massaging the corresponding reflex points.
How to do a foot massage
To begin with, you should put a pillow under the knee part or a towel rolled up so as not to feel pain when exposed to the muscles. In order for the procedure to take place in a comfortable environment, it is necessary to maintain a normal temperature in the room, and so that the second leg does not freeze, cover it with a terry sheet. The procedure can be performed at any time, for example, before a pedicure or before going to bed. It is recommended to use a cream, special lotion or massage oil for massaging.
Classical
The massaged lies on the stomach, a roller is placed under the knees. With a straight palm, the massage therapist performs light strokes from the ankle to the knee. After that, you should massage with increased pressure. For 3 minutes, the masseur alternates rubbing and stroking. Then kneading begins, which affects the nerve endings. At the end, the process is again replaced by stroking, taking an average of five minutes.
Therapeutic
Massage movements are performed from the ankles to the subgluteal fold, including the popliteal region. The procedure is used to restore the body after arthritis, arthrosis, flat feet, gout or past injuries of the legs and spine. The procedure should be directed by a doctor, and it should be done exclusively by a professional. You should first find out how much a foot massage costs, and whether they do a treatment option in the chosen salon, because even in Moscow you can’t find a good specialist everywhere.
Relaxing
You don't have to be a professional to perform a relaxing massage. To make it yourself, you first need to warm up your legs. This is done by stroking movements with massage oil. Then you should clasp the heel with both hands and rotate the ankle. Then do the same with knee joint. Next, you can move on to the sole and toes. Within 10-15 minutes they need to be kneaded, squeezed and stroked in random order.
Reflex
This massage technique is performed by a professional (chiropractor). By massaging certain areas on the feet, it is easy to put the nerves in order, strengthen the immune system, and improve the body. The specialist presses on certain active points that are responsible for the work of a particular organ. The pressure force, in this case, should change from strong to weak and vice versa. Acupressure is very similar to acupuncture and modern Thai, but was discovered three thousand years ago by ancient Chinese scientists.
Foot massage at home
In order not to pay a high price for the procedure to professionals, you need to learn how to massage the lower extremities yourself. Self-massage should begin with warming up the hands. To do this, rub your palms intensively against each other. Leg movements should be smooth, starting from calf muscle to the knee, and then move to the pelvis. To warm up your thighs inside, the intensity of movements should be reduced, and on the outer surface should be increased, but in moderation. It is necessary to follow the rule: hands slide along the leg only in the opposite direction.
Foot massage
After warming up the foot, you need to clasp it with your hands and stretch it several times between the palms, moving towards the heel from the fingers. Then you need to stretch the outer edge of the foot. This is done by pressing movements with the elbow or the edge of a bent fist and tapping the fingers on the heel. After fixing the massaged leg, the hand should gently twist the heel in different sides. In the end, you need to stretch the muscles around the lower joints of the fingers. in a circular motion.
shins
Movements are performed from the calf of the leg to the popliteal cavity. Kneading should begin with stroking, smoothly turning into straight-line rubbing, intense pinching and rotation of the palms. Manipulations should be moderately energetic so as not to harm the muscles of the lower leg. Massage is performed with the middle part of closed fingers, the lower part of the palms and fists. The number of repetitions for one lower leg is up to 7 times. After stretching the calf muscle or damage to the ligaments, massage should be carried out with minimal intensity without movements for an anguish.
toes
The procedure is especially appreciated by women who regularly wear high-heeled shoes. So that over time the joint of the base of the thumb does not deform, such massage sessions should be carried out periodically. During the procedure, the pads are first kneaded, then each phalanx is carefully scrolled. The masseur alternately moves first along and then against the trajectory of the clock hand. For additional load you can apply the extension-flexion of the toes.
thigh muscles
The procedure consists of two stages: working out the front and rear surface hips. The order is arbitrary. Movements include stroking, kneading, rubbing, gentle squeezing with both hands. Such techniques easily remove cellulite, lymphatic drainage of the skin occurs, which helps to get rid of stretch marks, wrinkles, and improves skin condition. Useful vibrating actions that produce from the knee to hip joint.
How to massage yourself
You can use foot massagers at home or learn how to do lymphatic drainage massage yourself. The peculiarity of the procedure is in wave-like soft movements carried out along the lymph to the lymph nodes. Massage is carried out to prevent varicose veins, relieve leg fatigue and for weight loss in the hip area (in combination with a diet). The impact occurs on soft tissues (their upper layers) for cleansing. As a result, toxins are removed, the process of splitting is enhanced subcutaneous fat. Self-massage should be carried out at least 1 time in 7 days.
Video: how to do a foot massage
Today we will start discussing Him we can do too alone, at home.
Foot massage - the benefits of acupressure on organs
What are the benefits of foot massage? Besides that foot massage very pleasant and has a rather powerful relaxing effect, it also relieves fatigue, improves sleep, activates immune system affecting the entire body as a whole.
As we already know, on the limbs, more precisely on the soles of the feet, biologically active points , pressing, pressing, rubbing which can indirectly affect almost any internal organ.
Even without any medical education, a person is able, simply by feeling his feet, to find painful points ... These are points of discomfort, and even quite severe pain signal us that there is a problem with some body. After consulting the table, which will be at the end of the article, with the prescribed projections of biologically active points, we can:
1. Pay attention to this organ, it may not hurt yet, the projection points on the feet react much earlier.
2. Start massaging painful points on the soles of the feet, reflexively affecting the diseased organ and helping it to become more active.
How to do foot massage
The foot massage procedure does not take very much time, but if you do it yourself, it may take about half an hour. Since the main relaxing foot massage effect I recommend doing it before bed.
start dot foot massage at home followed by warming them up with warm water. Then vigorously rub the soles to redness.
Let's prepare the cream. Anyone, even a child. Although, in practice, I can say that, in order for the foot massage to be more effective, it is worth taking some warming up cream, for example with mustard, with pepper, massage tonic.
Starting a foot massage with general vigorous rubbing movements of the entire foot.
After 1-2 minutes, go to toes. We give each toe a minute, rubbing in a circular motion, bending in one direction and the other. In people over 30 years of age, pain is possible with active flexion of the fingers. When some joints, muscles and tendons almost do not work, they, when trying to load them, give painful sensations. So gradual impact and again gradual.
As you can see from the table, The pads of the fingers and the bases of the toes have reflexogenic zones. related to the organs located in the head (eyes, ears, teeth, nose, sinuses and the brain itself), therefore, paying a lot of attention to the fingers, we activate our thought processes and improve our protection against colds.
In principle, since childhood we know that we wet (froze) our feet, wait for a cold ... This knowledge is based on the fact that with colds we soar the legs with mustard, wrap them up, put on warm woolen socks. And if suddenly we decide to temper ourselves, then we courageously walk barefoot.
By the number of fingers they distinguish five energy channels that fan out across the foot. With pressure, strong passage with vibrating movements from the middle of the foot to the base of the fingers, a gradual restoration of the energy balance in the body occurs. With good development of the points of these lines, the flow of energy through these channels improves and expands.
You can do a foot massage to yourself, you can do it to a friend, partner, so to speak, mutually.
It is extremely useful to massage the legs of children before going to bed, even for babies, it soothes, relaxes and promotes better sleep. And if the baby has flat feet or, God forbid, hallux valgus feet, it is necessary to master the massage technique.
Your friends will also thank you, especially pregnant women, their legs swell and hurt in the evening, and you can help them improve blood circulation, relieve fatigue and tension by your actions.
Often asked how to do a foot massage?
But after all, in fact, there can be no wrong effect, various techniques only help to more accurately influence biologically active points, but even if you don’t know something else, and not all massage techniques have been mastered by you, don’t stop in indecision !
Start small, your intuition is able to provide you with a service in this matter, and the soreness of some points on the soles of your feet will definitely help.
Active points on the feet - correspondence to the organs
And in the next the table gives projections of these important points on the soles of the feet (click on the picture to enlarge)
Even a short impact of one or two minutes on the painful point of the foot can activate the organ corresponding to it, start its recovery.
Reflexogenic foot massage gives rise to self-healing mechanisms, of course, if the situation is running, then this method will not be able to completely cure a serious disease, but in its infancy, when there are still no symptoms of the disease, and the point on the foot already hurts, saying that stagnant processes are taking place and pathology is developing.
Foot massage - video
For those who better perceive the information in the video, an example of a foot massage:
As for me, I will return to foot massage more than once in my articles, because not every organ available for independent action is so rich in reflexogenic points.
A foot massage will help you relax after a hard day and rejuvenate.
How to do this procedure correctly will help you find out useful advice from experts.
At correct execution movements can quickly relieve tension and have a beneficial effect on muscles and organs, as they are directly related to points on the feet.
Having mastered the technique of massage movements, you can perform the procedure at any time.
Nuances of foot massage
Foot massage is indicated for many diseases. It is recommended to perform it for circulatory problems, diseases of the limbs, systematic headaches and disorders digestive system.
The beneficial effect of massage is associated with improved blood circulation of the skin and their nutrition. To obtain maximum effect you need to know: how to properly massage the foot and apply appropriate techniques.
Massage should be performed in such a way that it does not cause pain. For the lower limbs, the following types of movements are used:
- Point pressure with fingers.
- Stroking with pressure.
- Rubbing movements in the form of a spiral.
- Touches with deep rubbing.
- Slapping movements.
- Calm strokes at the beginning or end of the procedure.
Advice! It is convenient to do massaging of the feet on a rug with rubber thorns, on which shoes are cleaned at the entrance to the dwelling. You can purchase a wooden roller with spikes or a Kuznetsov applicator.
Useful properties of massage
Foot massage differs from massage of the back and other parts of the body in that this procedure not only stimulates the muscles, but also positive effect appears throughout the body. The reason for this is the huge number of reflex points on the surface of the foot, which are responsible for various organs and systems of the body.
The benefits of this procedure are as follows:
- Improves blood supply to the legs. Constantly freezing toes, even in warm weather, will tell you about poor blood flow.
- Muscles are toned. The procedure is effective for flat feet and increased loads on the legs.
- Massage allows you to relieve tension in the legs, which prevents the occurrence of nervous breakdowns.
Advice! All areas of the sole and foot are sensitive. With hypothermia of the legs, a runny nose or a cold may appear. Feet should be kept warm, but in warm weather it is useful to walk on sand, pebbles and dew.
- Feeling constantly tired.
- Frequent headaches.
- Insomnia.
- Appetite disturbance.
- Problems with metabolism.
Such problems are not considered diseases, but they cause great inconvenience. If you perform a foot massage, it will affect the quality of blood flow, the activation of internal organs and the rise in mood.
Foot massage: how to do it right?
The procedure should be performed in a calm environment. This helps relieve muscle tension.
The main movements are made by the upper phalanx or thumb pad. The pressing force is determined individually. It depends on the health of the patient.
Performing massage yourself, you must follow the following rules:
- The reflexogenic zone should be massaged slowly, with the study of each millimeter of the foot.
- When you press on some points, there are especially painful sensations. This indicates problems with the body for which this site is responsible. It is necessary to influence the painful area especially carefully.
- You need to click on the same point several times.
- Massage is carried out no earlier than an hour after eating.
Advice!For preventive purposes, massage should be performed for twenty minutes a day. For chronic diseases, at least 20 sessions are required.
Points on the foot
There are many reflex zones on the foot. When performing a massage, you need to know:
Advice! Foot massage with continuation to the center of the folds on the buttock is performed with hemorrhoids, lumbago and sciatica.
Varieties of foot massage
There are many techniques for performing foot massage.
Point technique
This technique is considered one of the oldest. In the East, they were sure that on the sole there is a map of all systems and organs of the human body. And the impact on the points will get rid of many diseases.
Advice! Light movements are performed at the end and beginning of the massage. They allow you to establish contact with the body and relax the muscles. At the same time, stroking movements are made.
Thai technique
This technique appeared in Thailand a long time ago, but it came there from India. The essence of the method is to influence energy flows, which connect individual points and human organs. Massaging is being done problem areas that are in need of restoration.
Advice! One of the important conditions for the procedure is a relaxing environment. The session can be held with pleasant music and subdued light.
Massage for flat feet
The practice of foot massage includes knowledge of how to do it correctly with flat feet.
Such a massage is recommended for early detection of a problem. The procedure lasts about 8-12 minutes. The course consists of 12 sessions. Attention should be paid not only to the feet, but also to the lower back. Massage movements are performed from the tips of the toes to the lower leg. Massaging movements are made in the form of pressure, rubbing and chopping. The procedure should end with kneading and stroking the foot.
Advice! Kneading, chopping, tapping and stroking can be applied to the front of the thighs. To the soles and legs - stroking and rubbing.
Reflex massage
This type of massage allows you to strengthen the immune system, as well as improve the body and put it in order. nervous system. At the same time, certain zones on the feet are massaged, which are reflexively connected to internal organs. Such movements will help get rid of many problems. The treatment of the foot should be accompanied by a change in the pressure force - from weak to stronger.
Advice! The use of mechanical devices - wheelchairs, sticks and rollers, has a lesser effect than finger massage.
Classic foot massage
In the East, foot massage is called happiness for the feet. The most important effect of massage is the stimulation of natural healing mechanisms. When exposed to certain areas, the function of problem organs is normalized.
The procedure includes deep kneading, shaking, patting, chopping and tapping. For a tonic effect, the session is carried out at an accelerated pace.
Massage for children's feet
Such manipulations should be presented in the form of a game. Massage is recommended for the development of flat feet and clubfoot.
A set of exercises is selected individually. In case of severe violations with the foot, the procedure should be performed by a specialist.
Foot massage can be performed by parents as a preventive measure. He helps:
- Increase muscle tone.
- Strengthen the baby's musculoskeletal system.
- Prevent the development of foot deformities.
- Improves blood circulation.
The first massage movements can be performed from the second month of the baby's life. They consist in light strokes. All actions should bring pleasure to the crumbs.
At 4–5 months, rubbing of the surface of the sole and the entire foot and pressure are added.
At 8–9 months, light twisting of the fingers is added.
Closer to the year, you can work out individual zones of the leg. The impact is on the heels, toes and arch of the foot. Tapping, rubbing and kneading are also performed.
The following set of exercises is used:
- Stroking the foot with the balls of the fingers.
- The feet are rubbed with light touches from the heel to the toe and back.
- The number 8 is drawn on the sole.
- Circular rubbing is performed clockwise and counterclockwise.
- The number 7 is drawn. A line is drawn under the fingers, and then it falls to the heel.
- The foot is rotated clockwise and vice versa.
- The foot flexes and extends.
- Each finger is rubbed.
- The fingers are rotated and flexed.
- The lesson ends with stroking.
The time of the procedure depends on the mood of the child. The procedure is recommended to be performed every day. To improve the result, you should combine foot and lower leg massage.
Advice! Can't massage crying baby. An exercise for babies should take a few minutes. During exercises, you need to talk with the baby.
Secrets of performing erotic foot massage
Erotic foot massage is performed using aromatic oils. Here are some tips on how to do it right. Oils soothe and relax. For such a massage, rose oil, patchouli sandalwood is used. Essential compounds can be added to the base oil for massage. All movements are performed gently and delicately.
Even a gentle massage requires rubbing the entire body. On the back, circular movements and pressure are carried out. When massaging the foot, pressure is applied to the inner and outer surface feet. After pressing and stroking, tingling is performed.
Are there any contraindications?
There are temporary contraindications and permanent ones. Temporary ones include fever, sensitivity of the skin, exacerbation of diseases of the digestive system or kidneys.
Advice! Pregnant women should consult a doctor before performing a foot massage.
Features of self-massage
The big advantage of foot massage is that you can do it yourself.
Self-massage is performed as follows:
- The massage starts from the outside of the foot, from the instep. At the same time, stroking movements are made.
- Rubbing is performed zigzag, spiral, circular and rectilinear. Movements are made with the pads of the fingers, the edge of the palm or the crest of the fingers of the fist.
- Circular movements are made in the direction from the fingers to the heel and vice versa.
- Rubbing movements are performed with the thumbs.
- Each finger is rubbed, as well as twisting and sipping.
- Finally, smoothing movements of the feet are performed.
By performing a foot massage, you can provide yourself with good mood and well-being for the whole day.
There are energy points on the human foot, the state of which determines the work of such organs as: the esophagus, gallbladder, thyroid gland, liver and the organs of vision and hearing. Feet need regular care. And in order to avoid health problems, special massages of the legs and feet should be carried out periodically.
What are the benefits of foot massage
Thai foot massage known as foot massage. He affects the body by stimulating reflexogenic areas placed on the legs. And the correct stimulation of these zones helps to get rid of depression, increases life expectancy and renews the body.
For this type of massage, sticks made of iron wood are used. Thanks to this material, sticks are characterized by strength and durability. In addition, with the help of sticks, all points on the feet are perfectly worked out.
Thai foot massage is very popular and useful, besides it perfectly relieves fatigue. But it is mainly preventive.
Interesting to know! During the foot massage procedure, specially designed chairs are most often used, it is easier to relax in them.
For a session of Thai foot massage, contact a specially trained massage therapist The benefits of Thai foot massage have been proven for thousands of years. Already after several massage sessions, changes in the body's work occur:
- Improves blood circulation.
- Swelling on the legs is removed.
- Sleep improves.
- Filmed pain in back.
- Strengthens muscle tone.
- Improves the work of digestion.
- going down arterial pressure(in hypertensive patients).
In addition, during the session, the person relaxes and his strength is restored.
Basic rules for execution
Note! An important condition for a massage is a calm environment. And pleasant music and subdued light contribute to the rapid relaxation and calming of the psychological state of a person. 
When doing a foot massage with your hands, it is recommended to pay the most attention thumb or pad underneath. It is best to work continuously on reflexogenic zones.
Massage preferably with progressive or circular movements. The sticks or wheelchairs used during the massage, which are necessary for working out the feet, mainly have a superficial effect.
The use of special creams or massage oils during traditional Thai foot massage is advisable only at the end of the session in order to increase blood circulation.
Experts say: it is important to do Thai foot massage correctly, then the benefits of it will be noticeable after two or three sessions.
Foot massage is performed using special sticks
Active points for foot massage
Contraindications
Who needs a foot massage
The benefit of Thai foot massage is that it removes all the clamps and blocks, and therefore it is simply necessary for many people.
In special salons, there are several varieties of Thai massage: for the whole body, arms, head and legs.
- People with an inactive lifestyle.
- Those who are concerned about pain in the head, neck or back.
- Those who want to prolong youth and remove wrinkles.
- People suffering from insomnia.
- For those who want to remove harmful toxins and slags from the body.
- To all those who suffer from depression, stress.
With constant massage procedures, you can reduce the pain of arthrosis and arthritis
And also Thai foot massage is useful in that it normalizes work. gastrointestinal tract and many other organs.
How to do self-massage at home
In order to start doing Thai massage at home, first of all, you need to master its technique well and practice for a long time.
It is important to know! Inept and frivolous handling of energy zones can harm health.
Self-massage should be done with caution Before starting the foot massage procedure at home, you need to properly prepare. Without training, Thai massage cannot be done, as vital points will be involved. 
Tuning and relaxation are preparatory stage. Let's take a look at what co-tuning includes:
Having passed the co-setting, you can proceed to the foot massage.
Foot massage sequence:
Foot massage, which is carried out without activation of bioactive points, can be done at home and is suitable for beginner massage therapists
Foot and leg massage technique
There are a few different methods foot and leg massage. All of them are effective and help to cope with many diseases.
Acupressure- after a couple of sessions relieves headaches, improves sleep, restores the functioning of the stomach. This massage is suitable for absolutely everyone.
Collection of reflexology foot massage, spa foot treatment Thai foot massage It has long been known that the benefits of such a massage are enormous. It consists in stimulating reflexogenic zones, on which the work of many internal organs depends.
Chinese foot massage- consists of rubbing, pressing and stroking movements, as well as injections. It affects the energy points that affect the functioning of certain organs.
Reflex foot massage- represents pressure on the reflex points associated with specific organs. There are about 50 such points.
Choosing a professional massage therapist
It is for Thai foot massage that there are special massage therapists. Professionals who will be able to tell you everything about massage, as well as help you choose the most suitable therapeutic massage for you.
Massage is directly related to medicine. Therefore, a massage professional must have the appropriate medical education and qualifications.
The choice of a professional for Thai foot massage should be taken quite seriously. Improper stimulation of energy points during the procedure can activate any disease and at the same time harm health.
Foot massage in the central part will eliminate lung problems Thai foot massage has earned its popularity. Its usefulness is endless. It promotes healing and renewal of the body. It also brings pleasure and peace.
From this video you will learn how to properly and technically learn how to do Thai foot and foot massage:
In this video, they will share with you the technique of reflex massage of the foot zones:
You can find out that massage is a “complementary” technique and is an essential addition to traditional medicine from this video:
