How to Give a Great Foot Massage

By Scott Nicholas Amendolare

How to Give a Great Foot Massage How to Give a Great Foot Massage

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The feet are the most neglected part of the human anatomy and although much stigma has been attached in attributing pleasure to your peds. A great foot massage can be the source for an opening to a relaxed evening, leaving a hard day at the office behind you. So, when you're stressed, instead of going for the obvious method of relaxation, take your shoes off and get a much needed respite from life’s daily grind.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Bath of warm water – preferably in a basin
  • Bath oil or salts – Lavender and or peppermint seems the most popular
  • Towel
  • Candles
  • Relaxing music
  • Pillow
  • Body oil or foot cream
  • Firm but gentle touch

Step1
It is important that you soak the feet. Find a bath oil and liberally add them to a warm bath. Soak feet for no more than eight to ten minutes. After the feet are soaked, gently dry with a clean and plush towel.
Step2
Start at the toes and work your way to the ankle, gently cupping your free hand under the bottom of her foot. Gently retrace your steps back. Repeat this step four to six times.
Step3
Rotate the ankle. Cup your hand under the heel to brace the foot and ankle and with the other gently rotate the foot in a clockwise motion. Repeat this seven times and then rotate the foot counter clockwise. You will find over time that any stiffness will go away.
Step4
Toe pulls and squeezes which is a great way to calm and relax the recipient. With one hand, gently hold the bottom of the foot, and with the thumb and forefinger, firmly pulling each toes from the base to the tip. It is best to start with the Big toe first and work your way to through the smaller digits. Make sure you roll the toes between you thumb and forefinger gently squeezing as you go. After you pull, it is time to slide. After each toe is pulled, then slide your fingers in-between each toe. Consistency is key, so start with big toe and work your way through the remaining digits.
Step5
It’s time to relax those over stressed arches with the arch press. Taking the heel of your free hand, knead out, the remaining tension and stress, by sliding your hand from the ball of the foot towards the heel and return to first position. Repeat this five to six times.
Step6
It's time to begin the begin. First verse, same as the first. Repeating the stroking step on is an excellent way to end the massage and hopefully opens up the door to a more intimate evening.

Tips & Warnings

  • Make sure the knees are not locked as this will inhibit the circulation. If desired, you can place a pillow or pillow roll under the knees during the massage.
  • The agony of da' feet. The foot has many never endings that a layman may not understand. So the correct pressure is important.
  • Be smart about the amount of cream or oil you use. To little may cause friction and too much makes things slippery.

Photo/Video Credit

Photo by Daniel Jouvance

Comments

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serena08

serena08 said

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on 6/1/2008 I love this article! I've always wondered about the art of massage. In the area of foot massage, I feel like an expert now.

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eHow Article: How to Give a Great Foot Massage

eHow Member: Scott Nicholas Amendolare

Scott Nicholas Amendolare

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Category: Health

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