1) Benefits of Foot Massage
Improves circulation
·Reduces tension
·TLC- tender loving care
·Helps aching, tired feet
·If you have diabetes, you must check your feet. Nerve damage from diabetes lessens the sensation of pain, so diabetics may not know they’ve injured their feet. Blood vessel damage means injuries and infections don’t heal like they should. A little sore can become gangrenous, leading to amputation. Therefore massage is not only comforting, it is also another technique to inspect your feet.
·Relieves tired, aching feet.
·Reduces heat and swelling after long periods of standing or walking.
·Adding essential oils, either in a foot bath or massage oil will bring many benefits
2) Instructions for Massage
·Either you or your partner stretch the muscles by means of rotating the foot in a circular motion 7 times in one direction then 7 times in the opposite direction.
·Point toes downwards then stretch up wards 7 times each
·Soak feet (recipes to follow) before or after the massage.
·Hold foot firmly and use circular movements on bottom of foot with thumb.
·Work on whole foot in upward & downward strokes.
·Use thumb as hard as possible on the arch of the foot.
·Rub the calf muscle in the direction of the heart.
3) Exercise
·If they feel cramped or tense, shake as you would your hands, then relax then flex toes upwards then downwards.
·Scatter pencils on floor, pick up with toes
·Place a handful of dried beans in slippers or moccasins- walk around the room several times- massage the soles of your feet.
·Elevate leg at a 45-degree angle from your body with toes circulating after a hard day
4) See Your Health Care Professional if:
·Pain in feet continually increases during the day
·Your feet are to the point that you can’t keep your shoes on
·If you have trouble walking first thing in the morning, from foot pain
5) Soaking Recipes with Aromatheraphy
·Using essential oils also strengthens the immune system
·Use a basin or sit on the edge of the bath with a few inches of warm water
Soak for 15 minutes
Add 1/4 cup of Herbs for Hurts Milk Bath, which contains: sea salt, bicarbonate soda, and powdered milk.
Hot aching feet 3-5 drops of peppermint oil, helps cool the body on hot summer days.
Tired legs 3-5 drops of Rose Geranium, warms the body on cold days
Aching Legs 4 drops of Lavender & 3 drops of rosemary, helps relaxation
Cold & Flu 3-5 drops of Eucalyptus , helpful for relieving cold symtoms
Athletes Foot & Infections 3-8 drops of Tea Tree oil
