How to Massage Feet and Toes With Ayurvedic Techniques

Ayurvedic foot massage, known as Padabhyanga in Sanskrit, treats pain, soreness or fatigue in the feet, toes and lower leg with a series of specific techniques that manipulate energy points in the body. By using these movements along with other Ayurvedic specialties, like massage oils and soaks, the Ayurvedic practitioner relieves tired legs, feet and toes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Learn about doshas and marmas. In ayurvedic massage, the therapist adjusts technique according to the body type of the person receiving the treatment. A marma, or energy point, relates to how tissues combine, and by manipulating these areas the massage therapist improves physical and emotional maladies.

2. Prepare massage oils that coincide with the recipient's dosha. By rubbing an oil containing Kapha enhancing ingredients like sesame oil and almond into the corresponding marma points, the person getting the massage gets the best treatment for that particular dosha. Pitta oriented massage oils consist of coconut oil, sesame and sunflower, while Vata oils contain passionflower, bala and olive oil.

3. Apply the dosha appropriate oil to the feet. Rub each leg, the ankles and feet, focusing on the marma points, with circular motions then massage the entire length of the foot. Rub the toes and between the toes using the same motions.

4. Massage the feet, toes and each lower leg for 30 to 60 minutes. This relaxes and lightens the lower extremities and relieves swelling. Ayurvedic massage reduces insomnia, improves circulation and maintains good eyesight.

Tips & Warnings

• The doshas, or body types, are Vata, Pitta and Kapha, and each describes a radically different emotional and body constitution.
• Some practitioners use Ayurvedic balms geared to various joints and body parts during massage sessions.

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