This Valentine’s Day you needn’t break the bank with a lavish gift. A foot massage for those weary, over-worked feet will go a long way to keeping you in the good books.
Before the massage prepare a basin of warm water to soak those tired and aching feet. Ideally the sides of the basin should come up to the ankles so ensure that the feet are fully submerged. Make sure that there is enough space for both feet to fit comfortably side by side. Make sure you place a large towel under the basin to stop spillages and have a smaller towel to hand to dry the feet following the soak. Add some Epsom Salt, tea tree oil or lavender to the water to relax the foot muscles and to soften the skin.
To make the experience feel really special, put on some relaxing music and dim the lights. Full relaxation is in order for this foot massage!
If you have a pumice stone, gently buff away the dead skin and calluses from the bottom of the feet. Not only does this make the feet look good, it will also make the feet more sensitive to your massage. Then, dry the feet gently with a towel remembering to dry between the toes. Position the foot on a pillow or a folded towel into a reclining position.
If the recipient of the massage is pregnant, you may wish to consult their doctor beforehand. A calf massage or even just painting her toenails may be a safer alternative.
Once the feet are dry and in position start by gently rubbing some foot cream into the foot – not too much to make the foot slippery but just enough to reduce friction. Then gently stretch the foot by slowing pushing the top of the foot away from you and pull the top towards you. Use a little pressure during the massage bearing in mind that too much pressure will cause discomfort and not enough will cause a tickling sensation which is definitely not relaxing!
Rest the side of the foot rest in the palms of both hands and stroke the top of the foot with your thumbs from the toes down to the heel. Applying firm but slow pressure, knead the ball of the foot with your fist. Next use a technique called thumb walking to gently use a pinching motion with the thumbs from the base of the big toe along the tendon down to the heel. When doing this technique on the other foot start at the little toe joint.
The toes are the next focus of the massage. Tug on each toe individually and gently move the toe in a circular movement. Place a finger between each toe and rub backwards and forwards – repeat this motion for each of the toes.
To complete the massage stretch the base of the heel and the ball of the foot which take the most pressure when we are walking. Use the palm of your hand to press against the arch of the foot sliding your hand from the ball of the foot to the heel and back again. Again don’t use to muc or too little pressure.
Massage the other foot in the same way and finish by placing the pampered feet into a pair of slippers or wool socks.
The benefits of massage include improving blood circulation, increasing endorphin levels and relaxing muscles. Massage has also been known to relieve insomnia.
We hope you have enjoyed our guide to a pampering foot massage. Happy Valentine’s Day from the team at Davenport House Clinic!