After a heavy workout or extensive travelling, you would want a relaxing foot massage. Whenever we want to give relaxation to our body, a soothing treatment by the hands of a therapist comes to mind. Because if we care for our feet, we can walk and work more. Taking care of our feet can help you relax and relieve your pain. You can use any of the two – Foot Massage and Reflexology – to take care of your feet. Many think both are the same. However, both these processes are different from each other. Let’s find out!
What Does Foot Massage Mean?
Foot massage is a practice which has been in work for many years and is followed by many people. It benefits both mind and body. The process is quite simple in which the practitioner applies pressure to relieve soft tissues on and around the foot. This means massage on the tightly constricted muscles to relieve stagnant circulation and provides relief against soreness and discomfort.
What Does Reflexology Mean?
Many people are not aware of foot reflexology. Foot reflexology remains very scientific and involves a pressure-point-based technique. In reflexology, pressure is applied to certain reflex spots. And these points refer to certain organs or body parts. This process is used for therapeutic purposes or to alleviate some diseases. It goes beyond feeling good. The process involves kneading the foot’s soft fleshy balls of the foot, tracing around the heel, tugging on the toes, and pushing deeper into the arch.
Benefits of Massage
- Helps Improve Circulation
- Provides Relaxation
- Reduces Stress by Reducing the Build-up of Stress Hormone
- Increased Flexibility and Mobility of Joints
- Reduces Muscle Tension
- Helps Reduce Anxiety and Depression
- Improves Memory
Benefits of Reflexology
- Improved Functioning of Internal Organs and Glands
- Relieves Back Pain
- Reduces Stress
- Provides Relaxation
- Better Blood Circulation
- Improves Digestive System
- Recommended for Diabetes Patients
Difference Between Foot Massage and Reflexology
Foot Massage
- Foot massage is the process of rubbing and kneading muscles and joints of our body to increase relaxation and relieve tension.
- It is a manual process which involves holding, moving and applying pressure to connective tissue, ligaments and tendons to reduce stress and improve circulation.
- The process involves various lotions and oils
- It allows large muscle motions using hands and elbows
Reflexology
- It is a medical practice that applies pressure to certain areas like feet, hands and ears.
- In this process, pressure is applied on specific points or nerves, which are connected to the particular organ or part which a person wants to treat.
- It is used mainly for feet.
- Do not use lotions and oil for the process
- Small muscle movement using thumbs and fingers
Foot Massage and Reflexology are two different processes requiring different practitioners. Foot massage is given by the massage therapist and reflexology is performed by a reflexologist. The reflexologist should understand the work methodology of pressure points to treat certain diseases. Some massage therapists claim that they also perform reflexology but they may not have proper experience and knowledge of moving the thumb and finger on the particular nerve to treat different parts of the body.
Who Should Avoid Foot Massage or Reflexology?
Certain conditions when you must avoid taking these like
- Foot Ulcers
- Some Recent Feet or Ankle Injuries
- Gallstones
- Active Foot Infections
- Osteoarthritis
- Gout
- Cardiovascular Conditions
Conclusion
Now we can conclude that foot massage and reflexology are two different processes. But both are excellent in their ways and can be recommended for many people. If you only want to provide relaxation to your feet, opt for foot massage. But opt for reflexology if you want long-term relaxation and treatment for certain diseases. However, as each one of us is different in terms of how our body responds to treatment, one should consult a specialist before opting for any of the two. You can also contact CuDel- a professional home beauty salon for soothing services. It provides various services from your comfort, such as pedicure services at home, by professionals using trusted products. If you want any beauty-related service at your doorstep, contact us now!
