Why is it beneficial to massage your legs and feet?
Foot and leg massage is a therapy for the whole body. Hundreds of biologically active points connected to internal organs are concentrated in the feet. Therefore, by affecting the legs, we start the process of healing the whole body. In general, this procedure solves a whole range of problems.
Improved blood circulation
Proper blood circulation is the key to healthy and light legs. Massage stimulates blood flow, providing tissues with more oxygen and nutrients. This helps eliminate toxins faster, reduces congestion and swelling, and prevents numbness and night cramps.
Muscle relaxation and fatigue relief
Tension in the legs and feet builds up imperceptibly, and only massage can quickly relieve it. It relaxes overworked muscles, eliminates spasms, improves elasticity, and helps you recover faster after exercise or a long day at work.
Prevention of varicose veins and strengthening of blood vessels
Varicose veins are one of the most common problems associated with the legs. Massage can be an effective prevention for this disease. It activates venous outflow, reduces blood stagnation, and makes blood vessels more elastic and stronger. This does not replace the treatment of varicose veins, but it significantly reduces the risk of complications and improves overall well-being.
General health benefits
The benefits of foot massage also include its positive effect on the entire body. It improves the functioning of the peripheral nervous system, helps normalize sleep, reduces stress levels, and even stimulates the internal organs. Regular massage sessions strengthen the immune system, increase energy levels, and improve mood.
Types of foot massage
There are various techniques for performing foot and leg massage, each of which has its own characteristics and helps to solve specific problems. Below, we will look at the three most common types of this procedure.
Classic foot massage
Classic massage combines stroking, kneading, stretching, and vibration techniques. It improves blood circulation, relieves pain and tension, helps relax muscles after physical exertion, reduces swelling, and restores lightness to the legs. This is the best option for preventing and relieving daily fatigue.
Lymphatic drainage foot massage
Lymphatic drainage techniques are aimed at improving lymphatic drainage and removing excess fluid from tissues. They are especially useful for edema, heavy legs, early signs of varicose veins, or after prolonged standing. Lymphatic drainage massage of the legs and feet also improves the condition of the skin, making it smooth and toned.
Acupressure massage
During acupressure massage, biologically active points located on the feet and legs are stimulated. These points are connected to the functioning of internal organs and even entire body systems. This technique can relieve muscle spasms, improve nervous system function, increase energy, and even reduce stress levels.
How foot massage works
Every step we take puts more strain on our feet than we realize. There are tens of thousands of nerve endings concentrated here, forming a complex network of signals between the feet and the brain. When we massage, these nerve points receive impulses that are transmitted throughout the body. As a result, the body's natural self-healing mechanisms are triggered.
Foot and leg massage works on several levels at once. It activates microcirculation, stimulates the lymphatic system, and relieves muscle and nervous tension. Interestingly, this procedure also has a reflex effect. In Eastern medicine, the feet are considered to be a "mirror of the body," where each area corresponds to a specific organ. For example, by stimulating certain areas of the foot, you can improve the functioning of the liver, stomach, or even relieve headaches.
Self-massage of the feet at home
Of course, today you can sign up for massage treatments in Kyiv at any time. However, this does not mean that the procedure cannot be performed at home. No special skills or expensive equipment are required. All you need is a few minutes of free time and the desire to take care of yourself.
Foot massage with a ball
If you want to perform foot self-massage at home, the easiest way to do it is with a massage ball or a regular tennis ball. It is recommended for:
- flat feet;
- heel spur;
- foot deformities;
- reduced sensitivity in the feet;
- Achilles tendonitis;
- standing work;
- high physical activity.
Foot massage with a ball is quite simple. Place your foot on the ball and slowly roll it back and forth, applying light pressure. Adjust the pressure according to your own feelings. Then roll the ball in circular motions across your foot. If you encounter a sore spot during the process, stop and stay on it until the discomfort subsides.
Work on your foot in zones. First, focus on the front part, then the middle. After that, move on to working with your toes. Place the ball under your toe and slowly bend and unbend your toes, pressing on it.
It should be noted that foot massage with a ball has contraindications. It should not be performed if there are open wounds on the foot, unfixed deformation of the foot or toes, hypersensitivity or allergy to the material of the massage ball.
How to perform self-massage with your fingers
Self-massage of the feet with your fingers is an accessible way to relieve fatigue, improve blood circulation, and give your feet a feeling of lightness. But how do you massage your feet correctly at home? Start the procedure from the top of the foot, massaging it with your thumbs. Move up and then down. Do several repetitions.
Then place your thumbs in the center of your foot and make circular movements (one clockwise, the other counterclockwise). Then place your fingers on opposite sides of your foot and move them toward each other. The pressure should be moderate.
Then use your thumbs to rub your heel in circular motions. Add light up-and-down movements along the Achilles tendon. The skin in this area is usually dry, so it is worth using oil or cream to reduce friction.
Next, you can move on to massaging your toes. Place your thumb and index finger between your toes, gently squeeze them, and smoothly pull them away from you. It is important not to jerk your fingers sharply, but to work smoothly and with even pressure.
Then work on the area below the ankle. Gently squeeze it for 2–3 seconds and release. Repeat this several times. Next, use your thumbs to make circular movements around the ankle.
As we wrote earlier, certain areas of the foot are responsible for the functioning of internal organs. Therefore, if you want to improve and normalize their functioning, you can additionally perform acupressure massage on your feet. To do this, use your thumbs and index fingers to massage specific areas of the foot. For example:
- The toes are responsible for the head, neck, and sensory organs.
- The front part of the foot (metatarsus) is a projection of the chest organs, in particular the heart and lungs.
- The middle part of the foot (arch) corresponds to the abdominal cavity and digestive organs.
- The heel is a projection of the pelvic region and the organs of the small pelvis.
- The inner (medial) edge of the foot corresponds to the spinal column.
For additional stimulation, gently tap the massage points on the foot with the back of your hand or rub them with your thumbs. It is important not to press too hard on these areas. Start with light, smooth movements and gradually increase their intensity.
Foot and leg massage is the best way to restore lightness to the body, relieve fatigue, and take care of yourself. You can do it at home. But if you want to feel the professional touch of a master, sign up for a massage and SPA foot care at Seizó. Just one procedure in our salon can make you feel as if you have shed all your accumulated stress and tension.