There’s no denying a nice foot massage can feel heavenly. But would you be surprised if I told you a foot massage can actually help heal your body and mind? It sounds kind of hokey, right? That’s what I thought too … at first. But after some research and first-hand experience, here’s what I have come to understand about the healing power of foot massages.
Improves Circulation
If you sit a lot, your legs and feet are probably impacted by reduced blood circulation. Many of us live fairly sedentary lifestyles due to desk jobs or even binge-watching our favorite television shows. Wearing shoes that are too tight can also impact blood circulation in our feet and legs.
The cells in our feet and legs require oxygen from good blood flow to remain healthy. Fortunately, we can help reverse some of the damage caused by inhibited blood flow by getting regular foot massages. A foot massage stimulates the lymphatic system and helps improve blood flow—and thus oxygen flow—to the feet.
Reduces Pain
As we age, our feet become more achy and painful. Think about how we manage pain in our necks or backs. We get massages, right? We should do the same when we’re feeling discomfort in our feet. Massaging the soft tissues as well as the joints of the feet can help relieve our pain to some degree. If you tend to have cold feet, you may also notice that they feel warmer after a nice foot massage.
Supports Better Sleep
You may be wondering how rubbing your feet can lead to better sleep. Well, when you rub your feet (or better yet, have someone else do it) after a long day, you’ll start to feel more relaxed. Foot massages help relieve feelings of fatigue and stress. As these feelings subside, you’re in a much better position to fall asleep more easily and achieve deeper levels of sleep.
If you feel wound up before bed and have a difficult time getting the shuteye you need to maintain good health, try getting a soothing foot massage immediately before bed. Your sleep quality will likely improve as a result of your nightly foot massages.
Reduces Fluid Retention
Do your feet ever feel kind of squishy and fat after sitting or standing for a while? If so, you probably have issues with fluid retention. It is in your best interest to get the fluids in your body moving again. One way to do this is by getting regular foot massages. This can help reduce swelling in the ankles and feet.
Fights Depression
There are some activities that release endorphins into our bodies. These endorphins help us feel good and can fight off depression. A good foot massage is one of the many activities that can flood our bodies with endorphins.
If you’re feeling down, you may be able to boost your mood significantly by getting a quality foot massage. For those of us who tend to feel more depressed during the cold winter months, it becomes especially important to boost endorphins whenever possible.
If you can’t get your partner to massage your feet regularly, try pampering yourself and scheduling regular foot massages at a nearby spa. Your mental and physical health is well worth the modest expense. While you’re at it, why not get a full body massage and experience the stress-busting benefits?
You can also give yourself regular foot massages by sitting comfortably in a chair and putting the top of one of your feet on the opposite thigh. Then, drizzle some massage oil onto your foot and use both hands to gently knead your tired muscles and joints. Give it a try and see for yourself how regular foot massages can heal your body and mind.