How to Massage Feet

All of my life, I have been the person in my family to massage family members' feet, hands, and bodies. Within minutes, they are relaxed and might even be snoring. This article will give you some good pointers on how to massage someone's feet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   Warm up your lotion or oil before applying.

   When you are going to massage someone's feet, you want to make sure they are in a comfortable position. If you can go as far as to have soft music (water sounds are a favorite) and have them lay down, that is best. Your hands should not be cold - that is one of the most annoying things when having a massage. Warm your hands up a little before touching your client. Choose a lotion that is thick like a butter or an oil that is not too slippery or that doesn't dry too quickly. If the lotion or oil is cold, rub it vigorously between your hands to warm it up and never pour lotion or oil directly onto a client's skin. It's like putting a piece of ice on your warm body unexpectedly!

2. 
   Rub the arch of the foot to get started.

   Rubbing the bottom of the arch is a great place to start with your massage. Use your thumbs to rub in a circular motion and also pull lengthwise down the foot. This will be a good time to see if your client is ticklish. If he/she is ticklish, a firmer touch will be better to relax them than a lighter touch which may tickle them.

3. 
   The heel should but rubbed with strength.

   The heel is an important area to remember to massage well. We place so much pressure on our feet and heels every day that having someone rub them can be very relaxing. Try placing the heel of the foot in the palm of your hand and turn it like you were opening a jar clockwise. That motion will feel great for your client. Your palm is very strong so put some pressure into your turn when you work on the heel.

4. 
   Be careful when spreading toes, it might be painful to your client.

   Finally, rub the top of the foot and the toes. Some people do not like to have fingers go between their toes so be cautious if you decide to separate the toes. Rub them between your thumb and index finger with long strokes. You should also do long strokes on the top of the foot leading to the toes and especially rub the joint on the big toe with a circular pattern.
   
   I hope this article helps you give a great massage!

Tips & Warnings

• Always try to maintain a touch with your client's skin once you begin your massage.
• Never use cold hands when massaging.
• Never massage just on the skin, but get into the muscle.

[inquire]

on 8/2/2009 Great article! 5*!

[predd8193]

on 6/2/2009 Wish you were here!!! Great article... even greater massage.... 5*****'s