How to Get a Foot Massage

Technically know as reflexology, foot massage can be therapeutic, sensual or just plain relaxing. Since feet tend to be passed over for upkeep and massage, unless they're really hurting, a soothing foot rub can be a welcome surprise after a weary, pavement-pounding day. Here's what to expect if you're getting your tootsies massaged.

Instructions

1. Contact spas in your area for prices and services. A spa foot massage may include a foot soak in scented water with feet resting on warm stones. A cooling spray and mask may also be added before the foot massage, which sometimes includes the knees on down to the toes. Some establishments complete your luxurious foot rub with callous removal and a pedicure at full-service salons.

2. Relax in a comfortable spa lounge chair. Soak your feet in a tub filled with Epsom salts, lavender, orange slices or warm stones. Feel your feet scrubbed with a grainy, fresh-scented exfoliant to scrub off dead skin and invigorate your skin.

3. Enjoy the sensation as your feet receive a light massage. The masseuse or pedicurist will rub mint or cucumber or a similar cream over your soles, heels, toes and the top of your feet. The next massage strokes delve deeper into the tendons. The practitioner now applies pressure between tendons with their thumbs and fingers, soothing tired muscles.

4. Receive a relaxing rub on the soles of your feet. The masseuse moves briskly along the bottom of your feet in firm, circular motions, gently kneading the rougher skin there. Then they massage the toes in a circular motion, gently stretching them individually with their hands and then stretching them altogether.

5. Release tension with a twist. The masseuse now rotates both hands around the foot in opposite directions, after applying more cream. They'll end the massage with subdued all over strokes from the toes to the ankles.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't get a foot massage if you have chronic pain in your feet or ankles.