How To

How to Give a Foot Massage

By Jonathan F., eHow Editor
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A foot massage is the ultimate luxury and it is accessible to everyone. After a hard day's work of running errands, waiting on customers, hiking steep mountains, a foot massage can brighten up any day.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Soak the feet in a warm bath, adding oil or bath salts as desired. Afterwards, dry the feet thoroughly. Rub a moderate amount of cream or oil onto the palms of your hands, making sure to keep your hands warm to the touch. Ensure that the recipient is relaxed and comfortable.

  2. Step 2

    Moving from the toe to the ankle, stroke the top of the foot. Glide the pad of your thumb back and forth in between the tendons, applying a gentle friction the whole way along.

  3. Step 3

    Stroke the sole of the foot in the same matter, from toes to ankle, gently at first, but steadily increasing the pressure. Make circular motions with your thumbs and fingers, rubbing more vigorously along the heel, the ball and the sides. Knead the sole with your knuckles, particularly at the arch. For more ticklish feet, try using your palms or even your forearms.

  4. Step 4

    Roll each toe, from the big toe to the pinky, between your thumb and forefinger. Slide your fingers from the base of the toe to the tip, applying gentle friction the whole way along, finally squeezing the end of each toe gently. You may also gently swirl each toe in a circular motion.

  5. Step 5

    Insert your index finger between each pair of toes, wiggling it in and out. Gently pull on the end of each toe. They may pop, but don't be alarmed: simply continue to monitor the recipient for any discomfort. Gently rotate the foot at the ankle and repeat several times in each direction.

  6. Step 6

    Repeat Step 4 and any steps that were particularly well-received.

  7. Step 7

    Repeat for the opposite foot. Afterwards, wipe off any excess cream or oil.

Tips & Warnings
  • Mineral oil is not absorbed into the skin and cleans easily.
  • Don't stroke so gently that it tickles, or so vigorously that it causes discomfort. Also, if at any point your hands begin to tire, take the time to shake them out and give them a small break. Try not to interrupt the flow of the massage, however.

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