A foot massage can be a wonderful thing. It can help ease the stress of a long workday or the discomforts of pregnancy. It can be used a romantic overture and expression of affection to your spouse or loved one. Add some aromatherapy oil to the mix and watch the magic happen.

Taking care of your feet has to start with more than just massages. If you are required to stand for long periods of time because of the job that you do, make sure that you have proper shoes. Maintaining good posture can also help with foot pain. If you suffer from chronic foot pain, try making little circles with your feet during the day. Sit as often as possible, stretching your feet forward and backwards. You might also consider the cushioned insoles that are designed to mold with contours of your feet and massage pressure points while walking.

If your feet are particularly sore at the end of the day, a little aromatherapy foot massage oil may help. Make an herbal bath with ½ cup of Epsom salts, four drops of peppermint oil, and four drops of eucalyptus oil mixed well in a foot tub of hot water. Remember that the vapors released are half the treatment, so breathe in and relax. If your skin is sensitive, you can reduce the oils to two drops each.

After soaking your feet for 10 minutes, have a friend or loved one give you a massage. Make sure that your feet are completely dry before beginning. To give a good massage, here are some steps to follow.

Begin with a moderate amount of cream or oil to the hands. Hands should be warm to avoid any discomfort.

Start by stroking the top of the foot, between the cords that are located at the instep. Massage in the direction of toe to ankle. Next you can stroke the sole of the foot, starting out gently and gradually increasing pressure.

Create circular motions with your thumb and fingers over the sole of the foot, using more pressure along the heel and ball of the foot. Start at the top of the foot and work your way down, making sure that you get the sides of the foot as well.

Next, hold the foot with one hand and use the other to rotate the foot. Start by rotating at the ankle, then closer to the ball of the foot. Keep your movements gentle and repeat five times in each direction.

Continuing to hold the foot with one hand, make a fist with the other and give moderate pressure into the sole. Make sure that you give enough attention to the arch of the foot.

Starting with the big toe and working towards the pinky, take each toe individually and roll between your thumb and forefinger while you slide you fingers down the toe, applying pressure. Finish by gently squeezing the end of each toe. Then take your index finger and slide it between each toe about 5 times.

To finish the massage, repeat the circular motions made at the beginning. End by stroking the sole and instep, and wipe off any excess cream or oil with a towel. Putting on thick socks or slippers will help to maintain the moisturizing effect. Repeat all steps for the opposite foot.

For best results, the receiver of the massage needs to be comfortable. Find a comfortable seat, and enhance the mood with relaxing music or scented candles. A slower massage will induce relaxation, while a quicker one will help stimulate the body. If your hands start to become tense, shake them gently to relieve it and continue. Be cautious as to the amount of pressure you use - too much may become uncomfortable, and too little may tickle. Do not overuse the oil or cream, as it will cause your hands to become slippery. If the feet are overly painful or sensitive, consult medical advice from a professional, as this can be a sign of an underlying problem.

Tags: aromatherapy massage, aromatherapy oil,

Tags: Foot Care