Great Reasons to Try Foot Reflexology Today

Lisa Franchi November 20, 2015

Foot massage isn’t something we usually go for whenever we visit a salon. But this simple and less time-consuming therapy can actually benefit not just our feet, but our overall health! There are a number of pressure points in the feet that connect to other parts of our body. Massaging them can help ease those tensions and symptoms you may be dealing with.

Here are some of the great benefits of foot reflexology:

Better Sleep

If you’re like millions of people out there who often have troubles with sleep, you should consider foot reflexology. Applying pressure and easing tension in the large plantar pad of the big toe is the key towards this wonderful benefit. It relaxes your nerves and promotes blood flow, reducing your stress levels which in turn, has a positive impact on your sleep cycle. There are nearly 15,000 nerves in your feet alone, which is one of the reasons why foot reflexology is so calming, soothing and effective. Massaging the ball of the foot also has self-inducing effect as it corresponds to the chest, allowing for easy breathing.

More Energy

If your line of work is something that makes you sit all day long in front of the computer, chances are, you have issues with proper blood flow. Poor blood circulation makes you feel sluggish and tired because some parts of your body, including your muscles and brain, are deprived of oxygen which your blood transports throughout your system. By stimulating those 15,000 nerves in your feet, you are significantly boosting blood flow in your body, which in turn boosts your energy.

Relaxation

Foot massage is one of the most relaxing therapies out there and is perfect for managing stress levels. Just thinking about it will surely make you smile. Even a 15-minute foot massage can release blockages in your system, reignite your energy, and take you to a state of calmness and relaxation. Using warm oil boosts the relaxing effect of foot massage. Isn’t it a great way to end a workday?

Pain Management

Did you know that some body aches and pains can be easily relieved by foot massage? This therapy is known to aid arthritis, headache, neck pain, back pain, and even migraine. It can even help treat gout - a very painful condition that could make even simple activities like walking very difficult. Massaging the ankle helps fight headache and migraine, while rubbing the Achilles tendon and the outer ankle bone helps with thigh and lower back pain. Meanwhile, focusing on the arch helps relieve upper back pain.

Better Sex

Yep - you read it right. All it takes are some really aromatic essential oils, a few scented candles, and romantic music to set the mood right. Foot massage is a great gift to your significant other. And since foot massage eases stress and boosts blood flow, you become more ready to have a great night with your partner.

Lesser Anxiety and Depression

Some studies suggest that foot massage does more than putting us to a relaxed state. Frequent sessions have been shown to significantly reduce anxiety symptoms in cancer patients. If a loved one or family member suffers from depression or anxiety, giving them a foot massage is a great way to ease their pain and struggles.

Blood Pressure Regulation

Good news for people suffering from high blood pressure - a short duration of foot massage up to three times a week has been linked to improved mood, less anxiety and lower blood pressure. Keeping your blood pressure stable is a powerful way to protect yourself from heart disease.