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Feet are typically the most ignored part of the human body and at the same time it’s the body part that really screams for attention. A good massage provides stress relief, improved circulation, and overall enhancement of well-being. Deepen the luxury and efficacy with the touch of warmth and relaxation when adding massage candles to the regime. Foot massage is a very good way to relax. Now, in this article, we explain a myriad of foot massage techniques and show how to apply your massage candles for a luxurious experience in your self-indulgence.
Foot Massage Benefits
Improved Circulation
The massage of feet boosts the blood circulation tremendously, especially after standing or walking for an extended period of time.
Relaxation
A good foot massage relieves pain from chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis and discomfort from a day of tired feet.
Overall Wellness
The relaxation experience that the body goes through during a foot massage helps in the reduction of panic attacks, anxiety attacks, and general depression.
Getting Ready for the Perfect Foot Massage
Creating the Atmosphere
Light a massage candle with a soothing scent to make a relaxing environment. The crackling sound of the wick and the flicker of the flame are sure to set the ambiance for relaxation.
Candle Massage - Choosing the Best Candle
Choose a massage candle that is of good quality and made out of all-natural ingredients. This type of candle turns into smooth, nice oil at a temperature that is comfortable for the skin. Look for fragrance candles containing essential oils instead of chemicals. Check out premium massage candles by aoi which are made of all-natural ingredients of the highest quality.
Check the Temperature
Let the candle burn for a few minutes to get started. But it’s even better to wait for about 15-20 minutes until you get a pool of melted oil on the candle surface to avoid tunneling. Test the melted massage oil on a small part of skin to make sure it is nice and warm but not burning hot.
5 Best Techniques in Foot Massage
With everything prepared, below are some techniques applied during the massage of your feet:
1. Effleurage Technique
It is a light stroking technique applied to the feet to promulgate the area for further process of massage.
- Apply massage candle-warmed oil to your hands.
- From the toes up to the ankle, make long sweeping moves using the whole surface of your hand to cover the foot surface.
- For each foot, repeat the action several times, but not too many, making the muscles relax with each move.
2. Toe Stretch and Flex
Focusing on the toes can relieve tension and improve flexibility.
- Gently pull each toe forward, giving a slight stretch.
- Flex and extend each toe, gently rotate the toes to increase their range of motion.
- After 5-10 rounds, start using your fingers to apply gentle pressure between the toes.
3. Thumb Walking
This technique targets the arches of the feet and can help relieve tension.
- As you can guess from the name, you should apply pressure with your thumbs along the sole of the foot, literally like you'd be walking with your thumbs. Start at the heel and work toward the ball.
- Walk your thumbs in small, circular motions, focusing on any tender areas.
- Pay special attention to the arch, as this area often holds a lot of tension.
4. Ankle Rotation
A massage that includes ankle rotations can improve joint mobility and blood circulation.
- First, hold the foot in one hand, then start gently rotating the ankle with the other hand while still firmly holding the foot.
- Move the ankle joint in circular motions, first clockwise and then counterclockwise.
- Repeat on each foot several times to loosen the joint.
5. Heel Squeeze
Relieving tension in the heels can be especially soothing after a long day.
- Cup the heel with both hands and apply firm pressure, squeezing gently.
- Rotate your thumbs in circular motions over the heel, focusing on any tight areas.
- Repeat several times, applying more oil if necessary to maintain smooth gliding.
Finishing Touches
Once you've completed these techniques, finish the massage with a few gentle strokes from the toes to the ankle using the effleurage technique. Allow any remaining massage candle oil to absorb into the skin for added moisturization.
Massage Candle Safety Tips:
- Always remember to blow out the flame before pouring the oil.
- Keep the candle away from pets and small children. Do not leave the candle unattended while it's burning or hot.
- Test the candle wax on a small area of your skin first to ensure you are not allergic to any ingredients. Premium quality massage candles have low fragrance concentrations and are highly gentle.
- Avoid applying hot oil directly to sensitive areas or open wounds. If you experience any discomfort or irritation, discontinue use immediately.
Conclusion
A massage for your feet is something greater either for oneself or for a loved one. Soothing techniques paired with warm fragrant oil will feel like a sensory retreat into relaxation and rejuvenation. So next time when you need some nice relaxation, light up that massage candle and treat yourself to a spa-like foot massage in the comfort of your very own home.