Pregnancy massage therapy:

Before any massage therapy can be administered it may be advisable for pregnant clients to obtain a doctors clearance for any therapy received. Massage therapy can increase circulation flow which may cause dizziness and add to any existing morning sickness or other health conditions. If the client is still in the first trimester it would be important to obtain medical clearance before commencing any treatment so her doctor is aware of the treatment she will be receiving.

If the client is still very early in her pregnancy it is allowable to have her lay prone however if she doesn't find this comfortable then she may choose to lay on her side with one or two pillows positioned between her knees to keep her pelvis in proper alignment. During the second and third trimesters she will not be able to lay prone so she will need to be positioned on her side with one or two pillows between her knees to keep her pelvis in proper alignment.


Pregnancy massage therapy:

Some common symptoms of pregnancy which can be treated with massage therapy are sacroiliac pain, sciatica and fluid retention. Treatment will only be able to address these problems assuming the doctor has given the all clear to proceed and no other contraindications present themselves.

The symptoms of sacroiliac pain are often caused by traumatic injuries, biomechanical injuries, hormonal changes and inflammatory joint disease. Provided the cause of pain isn't the result of a traumatic injury or inflammatory disease then the symptoms can be treated with massage therapy.

Pregnancy massage therapy:

Before massage therapy is applied a heat pack can be applied to the sacral area to increase circulation, relax muscle tissue and alleviate some of the sacroiliac pain. Massage therapy can be applied to the rest of the back while the heat pack warms the area. Before using any heat the client should always be asked if they want a heat pack to be used as part of the treatment.

Massaging the shoulders and between the shoulder blades can release any muscular tension the client may be carrying due to the increase stress and tension of pregnancy. When the heat pack has been applied for around 15 to 20 minutes it can be removed and a gentle yet firm massage consisting of effleurage, petrissage and friction can be applied to the sacrum and lumber region.

Massage therapy to the abdominal region is strictly contraindicated in the first trimester and so this area will be avoided.

Massaging the upper back, sacrum and lumber region can help alleviate sacroiliac pains, pains in the lumbar region, assist with circulation and help to relax the client. Treatment for sciatica is still required and will follow upper body treatment. Fluid retention will be alleviated during all massage therapy so it is not entirely necessary to target that problem specifically unless it presents itself in a key area. If the fluid retention is too severe then massage therapy is contraindicated and it is best the client speaks to her doctor about it before continuing with treatment. If severe fluid retention is isolated to one location then contraindication is specified to that area alone or as recommended by her doctor.

Pregnancy massage therapy:

Treatment for sciatica involves manipulating trigger points in the quadratus lumborum, gluteus medius and the gluteus minimus. Massage to the rest of the legs can also correct any muscle imbalances that may be present which can affect the alignment of the pelvis and lumbar region. In addition to the musculo-skeletal benefits provided by leg massage; circulation will be improved in the legs and throughout the rest of the body.

While the client is receiving treatment Aromatherapy can be utilised to help her relax by using essential oils in an evaporative burner and with her permission, through a massage oil.

Pregnancy massage therapy:

In the evaporative burner the ideal blend would be a combination of lavender and lemon essential oils to help with relaxation and relieve any nausea. These oils can also be used in the massage carrier oil at low concentration of around 1%. Lavender and lemon essential oils used in a carrier oil can help with fluid retention by improving circulation, can help relieve muscular aches and pains and help to create a relaxing environment.

To support the massage treatment, the client can be instructed in ways to help her while at home, at work or simply while she is out and about. This would constitute proper posture while sitting, laying and performing day to day duties. Sleeping with a pillow between her knees can also help to reduce symptoms of pain in the pelvic and lumbar regions while laying on her side.

Home massage is possible from with the help of the partner, family member or close friend. Simple effleurage and petrissage motions can be demonstrated to the individual whom will be performing the treatment to help alleviate pain and discomfort which the pregnant client might be experiencing; in the case of two partners exchanging massage therapy, this will also create a stronger bond between the two adults and their baby.

Pregnancy is a big event in the life of the expectant mother as well as the father. And in order to make sure that everything goes well with it, couples will be willing to go through any possible methods. One technique that is famous among those who are expecting their babies to come is a pregnancy massage.

Pregnancy massage therapy: 

A little background about pregnancy massage might be necessary for a lot of people. It might not be familiar to women who have not had a baby before. If it is your first pregnancy, you might want to stick around and learn if pre-natal massage is right for you.

The techniques that are used for pregnancy massage are specifically made with the pregnant mother in mind. This means that a mother's welfare is prioritized. Any potential dangers to the mother and the baby are effectively avoided as much as possible.

The difference between a regular massage therapy and a pregnancy massage can first be obvious on the position that is assumed. On a regular massage, a person can lie on any position. The most common of these positions is laying face-down. However, for mothers who are in their second or third trimesters, lying face-down might not be the best idea. Also, lots of pillows and padding are used in order to ensure that both the baby and the mother are comfortable and well supported.

There are body parts, particularly the womb, which should be avoided. Deep tissue massage is likewise avoided. The use of certain lotions or oils might also be lessened especially if they are not indicated for a pregnant woman.

Pregnancy massage therapy: 

A pregnancy massage might be necessary for a mother in order to try to reduce the stresses that one can experience with pregnancy. Becoming pregnant does not only have physical strain. It also offers a lot of emotional burdens on the expectant mother.

Taking in medications while pregnant can be limited. If you are experiencing back pains from carrying the baby around for some time might be solved with the aid of a massage and not by taking pharmaceutical pain relievers. Other body parts might also feel the strain which massage can effectively relieve.

Getting a massage while pregnant can require a decision that is made by both the mother and father. Although there are no immediate risks to the welfare of the baby, issues are avoided as much as possible. The risk of injury will always be present even in a very small degree. Fortunately, you can keep in mind ways that will keep you and your baby away from danger.

Pregnancy massage therapy: 

In order to make sure that you are safe, you should only get your massage from a licensed massage therapist. Someone who has extensive knowledge on pregnancy massage will also be preferred. He or she will be able to identify what techniques should be avoided and what will be most effective and that will provide the mother with the most benefits. Consult your obstetrician regarding your plans of getting a massage. If you are cleared, you can start searching for the most fitting massage therapist in your area.

When I massaged my seventy-three year old father's feet he said, "I need this everyday for the rest of my life!" Seniors everywhere can benefit greatly from Geriatric Massage Therapy. The upsides to seniors getting massage are endless but below are many of the more commonly known and observed benefits.

Elderly Massage Therapy:

1. Increased circulation of Blood and Lymph. Massage therapy already has the wonderful benefit of increasing the circulation of blood and lymph on a regular person, imagine how it can help a senior who may be less active or physically limited.


2. Stronger Immune System. Massage therapy has been shown to improve and strengthen the immune system. Many seniors can be vulnerable due to weaker immune systems and therapeutic touch has been shown to be very effective.

3. Muscle Stiffness. As you age, the muscles become stiffer and need to constantly be stretched out. Massage therapy helps with stiffness and painful conditions due to aging. Keeping muscles more limber helps to prevent injury

4. Less Inflammation in Joints. Massage therapy helps to reduce the inflammation in joints due to the increased circulation of lymph. Lymph fluid carries away the products of inflammation and other toxic debris out of the body.

5. Reduces Anxiety and Depression. Seniors respond very well to massage as it helps to fulfill the need for caring human touch. Getting massage on a regular basis can greatly reduce and get symptoms of anxiety and depression under control.

6. Improved Range of Motion. Seniors can improve their range of motion when getting Massage therapy that incorporates passive stretching and range of motion. The passive movements help seniors to get a better stretch than they can get on their own.

7. Better Attitude. There's nothing like healing touch to perk up someone that needs a little lift. Seniors who get massage therapy on a regular basis have a better outlook on life than those who have no physical contact with others.

8. Improved Alzheimer's and Dementia Symptoms. Therapeutic massage has been shown to improve symptoms of both Alzheimer's and Dementia by reducing agitation and quieting some the symptoms related to both.

9. Greatly Improved Balance and Agility. Therapeutic massage helps to bring awareness to the body of the elderly helping to improve balance, coordination and agility.

10. Controls Blood Pressure and Heart Rate. Since massage therapy helps to lower blood pressure through accessing the Autonomic Nervous System, It's a great alternate way to control the heart rate. Regular massage helps with this by reducing stress levels in seniors.

Elderly Massage Therapy:

Seniors love to be touched and many are starved for regular caring touch. If you've ever considered giving geriatric massage, I can tell you that you'll have a very enthusiastic audience. Anyone still in massage school should consider giving senior massages as a wonderful and rewarding student project. Also, this would be a very special and unique area of focus for someone to practice in.

Lea Johnson has been a practicing licensed massage therapist for almost two decades. She is now thrilled to share her no-nonsense advice to other licensed massage practitioners to help them find their own way into their practice or improve the one they have. http://www.greatmassagetips.com

Giving a Back Massage
By Jacob Jarden  [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jacob_Jarden]

It is estimated that just under 80% of the worlds population suffer from ongoing back pain at some stage in their life. Nowadays no one has time to offer to the small feelings of well being, which if given would greatly heighten our efficiency and productivity. And for the same reason we have back massages which can easily get rid of strain and pain from your back and fill you with enthusiasm and get you ready for another rough ride. Giving a back massage can quickly get rid of anxiety, pain and stress, and guess what? it aids in increasing physical intimacy too.


Assuming you have your partner who is ready to take a test massage from you, we'll proceed and discuss how a soothing back massage can be given. Before a convincing massage therapy could begin, the environment must be setup accordingly, make sure you select a room which is soundproof, and has dim lighting. The room with only chandelier or which has few indirect lights would do. Its even possible if you can use scented candles to dimly light the environment. Coming to the back massaging procedure, select a bed or table on which your partner can feel comfortable. Its better if its wide, and long enough so that your partner can lay with legs stretched.


Keep a cushion or a pillow on the table or bed where your partners chest will be. Now if you are planning to use essential oil for this massage therapy, better get your table or bed covered with either dispensable sheet or an old bed sheet to catch the spilled oil. Give your partner sometime to get rid of the top clothes, and make sure they loosen their lower pants so that you can reach the lower back. Make them lay down on the table, facing downwards. Make sure the pillow is in right place; under the chest. Fold some cloth and keep it under your partners head to keep their neck in line with the body. The same can be done under your partners ankles. Cover the lower pants of your partner with a cloth so that it doesn't get stained with the oil. Now take some oil in hand and rub it in both hands, it would make it warm. start spreading it on your partners back, concentrate more on the neck are. [Back massage]


Keep your hands one upon another and start moving them on your partners back in small circles, without much pressure, this is called palm circling. This should be done from waist to neck. Close your hands into fist and slowly star rubbing the back with them till shoulders. Skip the spine and remember not to apply pressure on it. Another type of stroke, the muscle lifting can be done by holding flesh loosely with one hand and subsequently rubbing its hind are with another hand. End the stroke by slowly pulling the flesh outward. Alternate between all the three strokes and make sure the whole of the body is attended. [Back massage]


Continue massaging the back and body in this way, focusing on particularly tight areas (where you can feel "knots" in the muscle, or areas that invoke a strong response of pleasure from your massage subject. [Back massage]

Jake Jarden lives in Indiana with his wife and son. He runs a free publication on common massage therapy and meditation techniques, holistic healing, essential oils and candles, and much more.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Giving-a-Back-Massage&id=2056546] Giving a Back Massage

Shiatsu Back Massager - The Best Massage Chair
By Jason Oh  [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_Oh]

A Shiatsu Back Massager is one of the best pleasures in life. Not only can it be close to the real back massage - it has therapeutic benefits.

And with today's technology, you do not have to fork out thousands of dollars for a back massage chair. So if you need one but just could afford to buy it, there are a few versions of a back massager.

One such version is the Chair Style Shiatsu Back Massager which you can strap onto any chair at home or at the office.

Not only does it work efficiently, it seats comfortably and it is very light and portable. You can literally change an ugly chair into one of the most useful chair in your family home. And the best thing is, the price ranges from $70 and up the the hundreds.

Another economical version of a back massager are the pillow style ones. You simple rest your head on the pillow and it massaged the neck and shoulder region.. and it is very effective. Although, it doesn't massage the back, this is a nice option to have, especially for those people who suffer from neck and shoulder tightness.

But if you want the Shiatsu Back Massager Chairs, go for the Japanese models Fuji, Sanyo and the likes. Just make sure the chair can adjust to the length of your back, and able to get to the areas you want attention to.

In fact, the back massage chair must offer settings to allow you to adjust the rollers along your body shape, your shoulders and spine. Whether you opt for the chair or the lighter versions, a Shiatsu Back Massager can be a nice remedy to unwind and relax from a long hard day.

Can't Afford A Shiatsu Back Massager Chair? Visit http://www.shiatsubackmassagers.net/ Now And Discover Other Versions of a Shiatsu Back Massager That Offers Both Therapeutic Benefit And Great Value!

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Shiatsu-Back-Massager---The-Best-Massage-Chair&id=4361751] Shiatsu Back Massager - The Best Massage Chair

Reflexology and Athletics
By Laura Norman   [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Laura_Norman]

The world in sports is balance. For the professional marathoner as well as the weekend jogger, the key to peak athletic performance is remaining in balance. When athletes talk about being always on the fine edge, they mean the need to walk a fine line between extremes, for the athlete knows better than anyone how important it is for the body to remain in peak condition, and that means cooperation among the various parts and systems of the body.

Reflexology and Athletics:
Consider muscles alone. Actually, muscles never are alone; they are distributed in groups throughout the body. Each set of muscles is balanced by another set. When one contracts, the other relaxes. In fact, the electrochemical activity in any one muscle is a process of on and off, positive and negative, tension and release. Serious athletes work consistently on all muscle groups so that no one set dominates. For top performance, muscle groups must be uniformly developed and must function in harmony with one another.

So by making reflexology a part of your regular training, you will be playing from the vantage point of strength and balance. One of my associates who is a marathon runner has a reflexology practice made up almost entirely of athletes. He finds that his clients pay better, their times improve, their concentration is sharper, they suffer fewer injuries, and when they are injured they recover in a much shorter time so they can return to the game. He recommends making reflexology an adjunct to other toning and stretching therapies and activities, such as massage therapy and swimming, for general conditioning as well as recovery from sore and injured muscles.

Laura Norman, best-selling author, world-renowned Reflexologist and Coach is frequently featured in national magazines, newspapers, on radio, TV and the Internet. Laura has helped thousands of people banish burnout and erase fear and anxiety from their lives through her unique, holistic approach to Mind-Body-Spirit Wellness.

For access to Laura's FREE newsletter, including more of Laura's powerful insights, tips and tools you can use, please visit http://lauranormanreflexology.com

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Reflexology-and-Athletics&id=5686423] Reflexology and Athletics

Reflexology and the Elderly
By Wendy Coad [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Wendy_Coad]

It seems to me that reflexology and working with the elderly is a match made in heaven. Alternatives to medications are always of interest because they are often safer and with fewer side effects.

People usually seem rejuvenated after a reflexology session (and if not, it's because the body needed to rest a bit more). Reflexology definitely shows results and it's proven all the way back to ancient times.

Not only have nursing homes accepted reflexology as a powerful complementary and alternative massage therapy, reflexology has also found its place in eldercare and hospice.

Reflexology from a well trained reflexologist can do a lot to ensure better health or faster recovery.

Here are some facts that define why reflexology is so essential in hospice and nursing homes:

� Reflexology helps to relieve pain and of course, this makes a person feel good and relaxed. It might reduce the necessity of pain reliever medicines which can have certain side effects, but this will have to be determined by a medical professional only.

� It can really help someone feel rejuvenated with less stiffness and they can carry that into day to day activities with more ease and comfort.

� Blood circulation is increased with reflexology. Increase in circulation ensures speedier recovery. It can also help to improve the lymph, nerve function, muscle function, etc.

� The client can be sitting up or lying down and there's no need to roll over or to disrobe in order to receive and feel the benefits.

� Reflexology helps increase body awareness and is stimulating to the nervous system. Better nerve function can help maintain faster responses and thus able to deal with day to day activities in a better way.

� And, reflexology is safe and compassionate touch, without being too invasive.

The elderly are a large segment of the population and can feel isolated and be lonely, even when they are in facilities like nursing homes. The touch they receive in institutions is mostly for practical purposes and is often mechanical making reflexology a greatly appreciated experience especially because of its attentive and non-invasive qualities.

There are things you need to remember when working with the elderly:

Since the elderly tend to suffer from more illnesses and have more complications from these, always check with a medical professional before beginning to work with anyone who has health issues. This is so much easier to do when the client is in a nursing home or hospice because medical professionals are right there on staff.

Use less pressure when starting to work with an elderly client because their organ systems are older and may be slower than someone who is younger. There's no need to move too deeply or too quickly, certainly not until you have established what the tolerance to the reflexology is, and maybe never if you're working in a hospice setting.

Make the session shorter - there's no need to tax the body. The therapeutic benefits are still there and with a shorter session, you won't be overdoing what they might need or appreciate.

Of course there are always exceptions. I've been working with a client for almost 10 years. She's 94 years young and has been doing yoga for over 50 years. She has the physicality of a 60 year old (one who would be in excellent shape). For longer than I've known her, she's had a massage session and a reflexology session on alternating weeks. She eats well and has never indulged in sweets or desserts.

This is my one exception to the above mentioned rules and also a road map on how to stay healthy and live well.

� Wendy Coad

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER OR WEBSITE?

You can as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Online health and reflexology expert Wendy Coad, a.k.a. - Reflexology Professor - is creator of The Foot Factor Program - the most comprehensive on-line reflexology training program available. She is the author of reflexology books and publishes the popular "Reflexology Secrets, Tips and Techniques" weekly ezine to subscribers from around the world. Get your FREE tips now at http://reflexologyprof.com and join us at the top right corner.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Reflexology-and-the-Elderly&id=6536211] Reflexology and the Elderly

Using Reflexology As a Treatment For Back Pain
By Jan Griffiths  [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jan_Griffiths]

The practice of reflexology is a non invasive holistic therapy based upon stimulating the body's own healing process by applying firm pressure to specific reflex points on the feet, with some practitioners using the hands as well.  Each of these reflex points relate to a certain part or organ of the body and therefore the entire body is mapped out, with the left foot relating to the left hand side and the right foot to the right hand side of the body.

Reflexology has its origins in China and Egypt many thousands of years ago but the reflexology we see today was started in 1913 by Dr William H. Fitzgerald who researched body zones and how application of pressure in one part of a zone could influence another area within the same zone. Research into Zone Therapy, as it was known, evolved over the twentieth century and was refined by Eunice D. Ingham who discovered that the feet contain seven thousand nerve endings and were therefore the most appropriate part of the body to treat, her treatment method became known as the Ingham Compression Method of Reflexology.

As with many alternative massage therapies, there is no actual proof that reflexology works but many clinical trials have shown that it can be of benefit in treating all sorts of conditions and has been shown to be effective when dealing with back pain.  During a treatment the practitioner will work the entire surface of both the feet paying particular attention to tender or congested (known as gritty) areas as these represent parts of your body which are out of balance and painful. In some cases the hands will be treated but usually only in the case of extremely tender feet or missing limbs, this is because the surface area of the feet is greater therefore more effective. The treatment should not feel unpleasant as it is similar to a massage therapy and you should feel relaxed during and after the procedure, the pressure applied is not painful and is firm enough to be tolerated by those of us who are ticklish. There are no after effects apart from feeling relaxed and you will probably enjoy a good nights' sleep. Reflexology improves body circulation and cleanses the system from impurities and toxins so it is advisable to drink plenty of water afterwards to help expel them from your system.

Although reflexology is an alternative massage therapy, it is amongst one of the heavyweights in terms of reputation and effectiveness and many of us with varying conditions, including back pain, would no doubt benefit from one or more sessions.

Jan Griffiths maintains a [http://www.backpainreliefblog.org/]regular blog about chronic back pain, and has written many articles specifically on [http://www.backpainreliefblog.org/treatments/upper-back-pain-relief/]upper back pain relief.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Using-Reflexology-As-a-Treatment-For-Back-Pain&id=6528818] Using Reflexology As a Treatment For Back Pain

Do Women Like Getting Foot Massages?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ntathu_Allen]Ntathu Allen

As a woman, your first response to this question, might be a resounding YES! What is nicer, at the end of a long tiring day on your feet, to have someone hold your feet and give you a foot massage therapy? Surely that must rank among one of the best wind-down me-time activities?

Do Your Like Your Feet?

On closer observation, you will be surprised by the number of women who say "urgh...I can t bear anyone to touch my feet!" For a whole range of personal reasons, many women are extremely squeamish about having their feet touched by someone else. You feel ticklish, have callous and bunions, smelly feet or just "hate your feet" being on show. If this sounds like you, you may prefer to try giving yourself a foot massage therapy and when you feel more comfortable self-touching, progress to someone else giving you a foot massage therapy.

We all have parts of the body which we prefer to hide away and your feet may fall into this category.

If you recognise this, learning to love and accept all parts of your body is part of the yogic journey of self-love and self-acceptance. The more time you spend devoted to your practice the easier it becomes for you to feel comfortable and accept all parts of your body.

What Is a foot massage therapy?

A foot massage therapy is the technique of massaging (rubbing, touching) your feet to release tension, soothe anxieties, and calm your nerves. Your feet are very sensitive and contain reflexes which correspond to parts of your body. Therefore when you receive a foot massage therapy, you indirectly reconnect with the rest of your body. How you feel when you receive a foot massage therapy has a major impact on how much you enjoy your feet being touched and massaged.

How to Give Yourself a foot massage therapy

At the end of a busy taxing day, a foot massage therapy is the ideal way to relax and unwind from your day. If you are not able to receive a foot massage therapy, then follow this simple self care foot massage therapy.

1. Fill a bowl with warm water. Add a few drops of lavender oil, tea tree oil or your favourite oil. Place your feet in the bowl and swish the water around your feet. Stay here for about 5 - 10 minutes. Take your feet out of the bowl and dry with feet.

2. Mix together a few drops of your favourite oils with almond oil. Or you can buy a good quality massage oil, balm or cream.

3. Use a generous amount of oil rub briskly over the sole of one foot, taking time to follow the contours of your foot, paying attention to the arches, heels and top of your foot.

4. Use your thumb and make small circular motions over your foot, glide your index finger and thumb up and down the spaces between each toe. Wiggle each toe and give a slight tug at the top of the toe before moving on to the next toe.

5. Spend 3 - 5 minutes massaging each foot.

6. To finish your self-massage and to seal the goodness in, do a foot sweep of each feet and cup your fingers over the top of each foot

At the end of a busy day or if you feel tired and worn-out during your day, try giving yourself a foot massage therapy..you will instantly feel less stressed and cared for. If you are squeamish and do not like your feet been touched then try giving yourself a foot massage therapy. You will feel relaxed, loved and nurtured.

And now I invite you to find out how easily you can weave core yoga techniques into your busy schedule when you visit http://www.yogainspires.co.uk and sign up for your FREE weekly Ntathu's 101 Yoga Tips For Self-Care, Less Stress and More Relaxation e-newsletter.
Yoga Teacher, Ntathu Allen, teaches busy working women how to release stress and anxiety so you have more time, energy and space to care for yourself, enjoy being with your family and feel creative and productive at work.

Wishing you joy, peace and light.
 Ntathu Allen

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-Women-Like-Getting-Foot-Massages?&id=5344293] Do Women Like Getting Foot Massages?

Reflexology - The Art of Foot Massage
By Kelly Price  [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kelly_Price]

Reflexology is a complementary therapy which works on the feet to help and heal congestion in other 'related' parts of the body.

Reflexology is a gentle therapy used to help restore and maintain your body's natural equilibrium.

Reflexology isn't capable of curing any serious or life-threatening medical disorder and does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe; however as an alternative healing method, it is extremely popular with people from all walks of life.

Who Can Benefit from Reflexology?

Reflexology is suitable for all.

Many people use reflexology as a means of relaxing the mind and body and it has been shown to be an effective tool for:

o    stress related conditions

o    sleep disorders

o    back pain

o    migraine

o    infertility

o    sleep disorders

o    digestive disorders

o    hormonal imbalances

o    arthritis

With stress being so prevalent in our society today, this gentle, soothing therapy provides a method of stress release that can help on a physical, mental and emotional level.

How Does Reflexology Work?

By stimulating and applying pressure to the feet or hands, reflexology increases circulation and can promote specific bodily and muscular functions.

The hands and feet are more sensitive than most people realize.  A professionally trained reflexologist can detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.

Studies have shown reflexology to make improvements in physical and emotional movements, increase self esteem and confidence and improve the ability to stay motivated and improve concentration.

What Happens During a Reflexology Session?

According to Chinese medicine, the soles of the feet hold the sensory nerves of the internal organs that are spread through the body.  

During a reflexology session, the therapist applies manual pressure to the feet, working on specific points that connect with different zones in your body.

Pressure is then applied to particular areas of the soles of the feet.

Deposits and imbalances are sought out and released in order to remove blockages and restore the flow of blood and energy. 

Reflexology uses hands, fingers, a wooden stick, cream, and oils to stimulate a reflex action in another part of the body.

When properly practiced, reflexology gives a feeling of well-being and relaxation as it stimulates the body to help heal itself.

You should wear loose comfortable clothes that are unrestricting as only your shoes and socks will be removed.

Reflexology - is it safe for everyone?

If you have a heart condition, diabetes, epilepsy, high blood pressure or kidney problems, you should consult your healthcare provider before embarking on a course of reflexology.

Pregnant or menstruating women and people who are bleeding either internally or externally should not receive reflexology

Reflexology massage can be given every day but only for a duration of 45 minutes.
You should begin to experience a positive difference after one or two treatments. Most people experience a feeling of relaxation and wellbeing.

Occasionally people report feelings of nausea, tearfulness or feeling lethargic after a reflexology session. Therapists say this is part of the healing process.

It is important that you report any of these feelings to your reflexology therapist so that he or she can adopt your treatment plan accordingly.

Reflexology should be avoided for at least one hour after meals.  As with most massage therapies you should drink plenty of water after treatment.

Many people use reflexology as a means of relaxing the mind and body and it has grown in popularity in recent years as way of relaxing and de-stressing from the pressures we all face on a day to day basis.

Reflexology - Finding a Therapist

To get the best from a reflexology session you should seek out a suitably trained therapist.
Most Spas, salons and health clubs now offer massage treatments and some therapist will carry out a reflexology treatment in the comfort of your own home.

For more FREE info

On reflexology and other forms of massage, from experienced professionals contact: http://www.privatelyyours.co.uk

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Reflexology---The-Art-of-Foot-Massage&id=283529] Reflexology - The Art of Foot Massage

Foot Care Tips and Foot Massage
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marion_Mccants]Marion Mccants

Foot massage therapy and foot care:
Your feet are in charge of taking you into different places, anywhere you want to. This is why your feet are among the parts of your body that need to be taken care of properly and should be treated with utmost importance. Remember that your feet are among the most essential parts of your body that should never be taken for granted. This is considering the fact that you will be able to accomplish most of your daily tasks without using them. Thus, you must consider the things that you should and should not do to your feet.

Foot massage therapy and foot care:
As mentioned above, it is just right that you take care of your feet properly and here are some foot care tips that you just might want to take into consideration. Even for just once a year, you can have your feet checked by a professional. This is to make sure that there are no problems with your feet.

Foot massage therapy and foot care:
Every once in a while, you also need to check if your feet have cracks and sores. If there are, you have to do something to treat them. Trimming your toenails is another part of properly taking care of your feet which can make you look tidier. Instead of washing your feet with hot water, you should use warm water and then dry them well.

Foot massage therapy and foot care:
You should pay more attention to the areas between the toes because these are known to be the sensitive areas and are prone to infections. Then, always use comfortable footwear and never walk without wearing anything because you may hurt yourself. And of course, you should regularly exercise your feet to maintain proper blood circulation.

Foot massage therapy and foot care:
Aside from these foot care tips, another idea that you can consider when it comes to taking care of your feet properly is getting a foot massage therapy. Foot massage therapy, like any other types of massage therapy, has several benefits to offer.

Reflexology is one of the most popular massage techniques that are really intended for the feet. In this particular technique, different points of your feet will be applied a certain amount of pressure that corresponds to a certain point of your entire body. But of course, there are some things that you have to take note of before getting a foot massage therapy. For instance, if you are pregnant, you must not get a foot massage therapy because it can be bad for your child.

The same idea applies when you are suffering from a heart disease or hypertension. And lastly, after drinking any alcohol drink, right after eating and bathing, you should not get a foot massage therapy. It is best if your wait for about a couple of hours before getting a massage to avoid any problems.

So if you want to properly take care of your feet, you should take note of the things that were mentioned above.

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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Foot-Care-Tips-and-Foot-Massage&id=6593049] Foot Care Tips and Foot Massage

Foot Massage Therapy Has Many Benefits
By Susan Amato and Rick Amato [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Susan_Amato]

First of all, there are the short term effects. If you recall the last time that you had a good foot massage therapy you will probably remember that it is one of the most relaxing experiences that you can enjoy. When you are getting a massage you can understand how foot massage therapy would it affect the rest of the body as you immediately start to feel better all over.

Regarding things that happen over the long term, there have been studies that have shown that heart patients will show improved recovery times after they have received regular foot massage therapy. That may be in part because they are generally more relaxed. It may also have something to do with the fact that whenever you massage the body you improve the circulation in the area that is being massaged provided it is done correctly. We have a tremendous amount of veins and nerves in our feet so it stands to reason that foot massage therapy would be one of the most effective types of massage therapy.

Something that can prove difficult for many people is that it is often not possible or not within the budget to a massage in a spa or at a medical center. If this is the case, then you can get an electric foot massager for use in the home that will provide the same kind of benefits. If you do, try to find one that has rulers that enable you to have the rollers knead deeply into the tissue. It will not only feel great to put your feet in one of these at the end of a long day, but you may also find long-lasting health benefits as a result.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Foot-Massage-Therapy-Has-Many-Benefits&id=3694993] Foot Massage Therapy Has Many Benefits