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Foot Massage For The Ailing Tootsies
By Candice Sabrina
According to Chinese medicine,
the feet of the human body contain nerve endings that are connected
to every other part of the body. With that in mind, they believe
that a specialized foot massage, which centers on specific points
of the foot, can help alleviate any ailment anywhere in the body.
The Chinese believe that if there is a painful area on the foot,
it is an indication of something being unwell somewhere else
in the body.
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Based on those beliefs, the Chinese
have used foot massage as a
means of generating overall wellness and energy.
In the Western world, sometimes
the feet just hurt—whether it
is because of ill-fitting shoes, extended periods of standing
or
walking, or a combination of both. To satisfy both of these
explanations for pain in the feet, there are foot massages that
let you have your aching ends find some relief. In fact, there
are numerous products and services that bill themselves as foot
massaging, from the pedicure service at your local salon to the
inserts for your shoes.
To begin, shoe inserts sold by
a variety of manufacturers and
for a varying price level claim to cushion the ball and heel
of
the foot; beyond that, some state that they offer specially
designed inserts that stimulate those areas of the foot that
the
Chinese medicinal theory claims are connected to other areas
of
the body. Whichever insert is chosen, the basic premise here
is
to use the pressure already being exerted by walking, standing,
or running to gently cushion and massage the sole of the foot.
Gels and other synthetically produced fabrics and solutions are
generally used within the insert to provide this support and
massage.
If relief is not completely achieved
through the use of shoe
inserts, there is also the option of purchasing a foot spa.
These foot baths are often equipped with a massage feature or
two. Sold at almost every major retailer, these small bowls are
easy to use—fill with hot water, plug it in, and insert
feet.
The benefits of these foot spas in that they are easy to use
and
will provide simple relief for the general aches and pains of
everyday foot abuse. Also, since these are portable and
lightweight, you can use them in your living room, bathroom,
bedroom, and patio; anywhere you want to receive a foot soak
with a gentle massage built in, you can move your foot spa
around the house with you. A foot massage in the privacy of
your own home is quite appealing. |
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Of course, there is also the option
of visiting a masseuse or even a salon where you can have someone
else knead the tensions and swelling right out of your feet.
Usually based on the aforementioned Chinese theory of foot massage,
you can expect to have your feet soaked in a solution of water
and either Epsom salts or herbs that are used for reducing swelling
and aiding in relaxation. The masseuse will likely use lotions
or creams to reduce friction during the massage, and will knead,
tap, and roll their hands and knuckles over your feet and ankles.
A foot massage such as this is relaxing beyond words.
When it comes to foot massages,
there are many ways to get this relaxing relief, and even more
reasons why your feet hurt in the first place. Buy some inserts
for your shoes, get your hands on a foot spa, or even visit a
special masseuse who can work the kinks out for you. A foot massage
is a relaxing and refreshing way to rid yourself of your aches. |
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