Foot massage, why is it good for you? We are constantly on the move, living hectic life and feeling stressed out. As a result, our body is having difficulties to cope with extreme physical and mental exhaustion and fatigue. At times it has to take a break to relax and nurture itself. Due to the frequent movements, our legs suffer from extreme tiredness, especially the feet as a consequence of a large number of hours we spend in footwear. No matter how comfortable our footwear is, our feet still don’t breathe and relax enough. They eagerly wait for you to dedicate your time to them, at least a few minutes of a well-deserved relaxing massage. Foot massage is a great way to relax your feet and relieve fatigue.
The origin of foot massage
Foot massage is derived from traditional Chinese medicine. More precisely, reflexology is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques.
It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas with the aim to relieve tension. There are many types of reflexology, depending on the area that is being massaged: foot reflexology, hand, face, ears, and eyes. The most widespread is foot reflexology, which is based on the principle of acupuncture points where every organ in the body has a certain point on the foot. Chinese reflexologists have been practising foot reflexology for over 3000 years and believe that massage contributes to the creation and establishment of balance Chi. Chi balance is a life force energy that permeates the human body and enhanced chi bring the body into a state of health. According to traditional Chinese reflexology, practitioners are supposed to press the thumb on any area in the hands and feet and they can identify which organs in the body have a certain dysfunction. They believe massage of hands and feet stimulates the nerves and thereby improves vitality of the body.
There are 4 types of schools for foot reflexology:
- Chinese school – based on traditional Chinese medicine, which involves five elements (wood, fire, metal, earth, water);
- School of modern reflexology or American school (formed by the well-known American physiotherapist Eunice Ingham);
- Thai school – where practitioners massage the foot and penetrate deep into tissue with the help of a wooden object;
- South African school- based on the principle of foot reflexology that channels and releases emotions.
Reflexology zones chart: Explained
There are a huge number of nerves located in the foot which are associated with organs. Stimulating those nerves with the help of a foot massage can improve blood circulation, strengthen the immune system and help set in motion lymphatic drainage. This type of massage is also a great way to relieve pain in the legs and feet.
In the photo, you can see different points on the feet which represent a certain organ in your body. On the right foot there are right side organs, while the left foot represents those organs on the left. The liver is on the left side of the left foot, the stomach is on the left side of the right foot and the right side of the left foot. Stimulating and massaging these points can improve digestion and eliminate stomach ailments. The central part of the foot represents the spine because the spine is located in the middle of the body. According to reflexology, toes on the feet are directly linked to the head i.e. the brain. Pituitary and nose are connected with big toes on the feet. Massaging these parts of the feet can reduce headaches and migraines. The area just bellow the toes on the feet is associated with chests i.e lungs. The lower part of the foot belongs to pelvis. Kidneys are located in the middle part of the right and left foot.
Benefits of reflexology
Reflexology or foot massage massage is an excellent method for the prevention of health problems and the establishment of psychophysical balance in the body. It regenerates the vital functions of the body, soothe back pains, offers complete body relaxation. The balance is very important for the healthy body, mind and spirit. When the body is in dysfunction there is a blockage in channeling energy and the body is out of balance. For that reason foot massage can reduce stress because it relaxes the nerves in the feet and gives the body the necessary recovery. What’s more, massage can also improve the quality of sleep.
There are many ways that you can massage your feet:
- Self-massage – where you are massaging the feet yourself;
- Book an appointment with a masseur who is specialist is reflexology massage, physical therapist or kinesiotherapists;
- Another option that will save your time and energy is using the massager Krafty. It is based on the principle of acupressure points, which can also eliminate pain in the feet, relax them, improve blood circulation and establish vital energy of your body.
You should use 2-in-1 Back and Foot Massager Krafty 15-30 minutes each day. Using foot massagers will give your feet and body complete relaxation. 2-in-1 Back and Foot Massager Krafty is very practical and easy to use either at home, office or holiday trip. in this way you will relax your body and channel your energy. We recommend that you drink 2 decilitres of water before and after the foot massage to stay hydrated.
There are tremendous benefits to be achieved through regular massage. Whether your need to have a moment of relaxation, reduce muscle tension or alleviate chronic pain, massage can enhance your overall sense of emotional and physical well-being.
Note:
People with serious health problems need to consult their doctor prior to having foot massage. Moreover, foot massage is not recommended for pregnant women, especially those who are in the first 3 months of pregnancy.
