5 foot massages to get relief from stress and pain

Foot massage is a great way to pamper yourself and unwind after a long and tiring day. Nothing feels as satisfying and relaxing as compared to a good foot massage. But the benefits of foot massage are not limited to this alone. Science says that foot massage can also help to get relief from tension, headache, insomnia, and stress.

Even ancient practices belive that massaging some specific points on the foot can heal conditions affecting different parts of your body. The logic behind this is that massaging helps easy flow of energy in the body, which is called 'Chi'.

Here are 5 massages you can do at home for some relief:

You can get relief from anxiety by massaging pressure points on your foot near your toes.

How to do it: Curl the toes of your foot, so that a small depression is formed just below the ball of your foot. Now place your thumb on this depression and massage the area gently in a circular motion.

This massaging technique can help to get relief from tension and stress.

How to do it: Hold the top of your foot with one hand and the back with the other. Now gently rub the heel of the foot in a circular motion using your thumb.

Massaging your toes can help to get relief from headache, tension, and cramps in the toes.

How to do it: Hold the foot with one hand, under the arch, and place the thumb of your other hand on the top of big toe. Firmly rotate the toe to one side and pull it from top to bottom. Repeat the same with the other toes of the foot.

This simple exercise can help you get rid of any kind of body pain.

How to do it: Sit on a chair or sofa and place a golf or tennis ball on the floor under your foot. Roll the ball around with your foot for 3 to 5 minutes every day.

Some studies suggest that a better way to relieve lower back pain is by reflexology than massaging the area of pain itself.

How to do it: You have to concentrate on the pressure points on the arches of your foot. Take a few drops of oil or lubricants in your hand and gently massage this area with your thumb. Move your thumb from your heel to the toes in a series of short strokes.

It is important to create a relaxing atmosphere to gain maximum benefits. First of all, clean the feet properly and pat it dry. You can use oil or lubricants for massaging your feet.