Thai Foot Massage Benefits And Products
When was the last time you gave your feet the time and attention they deserve? They carry us around all day, but we often take them for granted. If you need to show them a little more care, why not start with a foot massage? In this article, we’ll look at a popular treatment with a long history: Thai foot massage.
What is Thai foot massage?
A traditional Thai foot massage involves the application of pressure to the feet, lower legs, and knees. Practitioners rub and knead various areas with the intention of correcting energy imbalances in the body.
View this post on Instagram
Thai foot massage versus reflexology
Reflexology is the practice of stimulating particular zones on the soles of the feet. Each area corresponds to another part of the body. For instance, the fourth and fifth toes are linked to the sinuses. Therefore, a reflexologist would stimulate this area when treating a client complaining of congestion.
Thai foot massage incorporates the principles of reflexology, but it also emphasizes therapeutic massage movements. A Thai foot massage practitioner focuses on clearing blockages within the body’s energy pathways. Using firm motions, they stretch and mobilize all major muscles below the knee.
Many therapists now offer hybrid treatments that combine general foot and leg massage with traditional reflexology. For instance, they may provide an all-over foot massage combined with extra, focused stimulation of the relevant reflexology points.
How to massage your own feet
If you can’t book a Thai foot massage with a professional, why not learn how to massage your own feet? You’ll save time and money, and you’ll be able to relieve any aches and pains wherever you happen to be.
Here’s how to do a basic feet and lower leg massage:
1. Bend your right leg, resting your foot on your left thigh.
2. Place a few drops of massage oil on your hand.
3. Using light upward strokes, massage your toes, arch, heel, and calves.
4. Switch to a deeper pressure. Knead your muscles as you would bread dough. Use your knuckles to work out any kinks or knots.
5. Stretch out your toes by pulling them apart and flexing them.
6. Repeat with your other foot.
The second element of a Thai massage is reflexology. You can use online reflexology charts as a guide to help treat any specific health problems you are experiencing. You can check out a reflexology map here. Over time, you will memorize the most important zones. You can stimulate each area with your fingers – or you can use a massage tool.
How using tools can enhance your massage
Massage tools enable you to pinpoint problem areas and apply deep pressure. They are particularly useful when stimulating reflexology points on the sole of the foot.
If you have not used tools before, experiment with a few different kinds. Try Thai Enjoy’s 6-piece wooden tool set. Crafted from smooth wood coated in non-toxic finish, they are easy to use and comfortable to hold. The kit includes wand-shaped, star-shaped, and cross-shaped tools that will help eliminate muscle tension and deliver deep stimulation.
