DIFFERENT TYPES: There are different types of massage and not all of them will be enjoyed by everyone, this is also true when it comes to a Foot Massage. One can get a very basic foot massage where an expert will massage the tendons and muscles in the feet. In this procedure, the masseur will usually have received training and will know what to watch for in the facial reactions of their client to pick up on what is working, they also will usually ask their client to provide feedback as well. Sometimes scented oils and lotions will be used, but there are many people who have sensitivities to various smells, so the therapist will usually ask the client about the use of scented products and aromatherapy prior to beginning the massage.
Some massage techniques are over 5,000 years old, like the Chinese method of foot massage that is based on reflexology. This is a practice where the therapist users their fingers and hands and will apply pressure to specific trigger points found in the foot which control inner organs. The Thai foot massage also uses reflexology like the Chinese massage, however the pressure points will be manipulated and pressed with a stick as well as cream or lotion, instead of using hands and fingers.
Since the Chinese did not record this speciality, the knowledge was almost lost. Once Western countries began connecting with the Chinese up to about 1912, they began to pick up the knowledge, and in 1913, an American doctor began writing about it. Other American doctors followed suit, and in 1938, a physical therapist named Eunice Ingham refined and recorded the details, which became the framework for the field today.
BENEFITS: The benefits are many, including improved circulation and cleansing. As blood circulates throughout the body, it distributes oxygen and nutrients. Since stress causes blood to slow down, oxygen and nutrients also slow down, and blood pressure rises. A foot massage can restore blood flow and lymph system flow, and lower blood pressure. The result is improved health of one's body and mind.
CONSIDERATIONS: Since the pressure points found on one's feet will affect specific organs, it is that you only see a massage therapist who is licensed. This will help ensure that the patient receives a correctly administered massage. One can get a foot massage everyday, but the combined total for both feet should not exceed 45 minutes.
Women currently menstruating, as well as anyone else who is bleeding, should not get a foot massage based on reflexology because it will affect their blood flow. Also, pregnant women need to be sure that their massage therapist has been made aware of their condition so that any stimulation of the reproductive organs can be avoided, as this may cause the woman to begin contracting. As with any massage, it is very important that the recipient drink plenty of water following their massage in order to wash away and eliminate the toxins released as a result of the massage.
OTHER OPTIONS: Another popular option for a good foot massage is to make use of one of the units created for home use that have been scientifically designed for this purpose. There are many different products in this area and they come in a variety of price ranges. Some will pulsate, some vibrate and others will include bubbling water that is heated. One can even find vibrating sleepers, some will be heated, which provide an effective foot massage for some people. Regardless of the type of foot massage, it can provide a therapeutic benefit; it can help lower blood pressure, remove toxins, and restore a feeling of calm.

