Foot massage: what are the benefits?
Every day, our feet are subjected to strain caused by wearing tight shoes, walking or taking part in sporting activities.
A large proportion of the population tends to neglect this area, even though the feet provide vital support for the rest of the body. They deserve to be pampered, just like our hands or face.
To this end, foot massage and self-massage are readily accessible techniques that offer numerous benefits for both body and mind. A Chinese study from 2021 thus demonstrated the benefits of foot massage on sleep (1). By helping to reduce muscle and nervous tension, it promotes general relaxation of the body, which in turn helps you fall asleep. Another Korean study in 2011 also revealed the impact of foot massage on sleep quality, as well as on reducing fatigue.(2) According to another study from 2020, foot massage may also help to reduce anxiety and the perception of pain.(3) This effect could be attributed to an increase in oxytocin, a hormone naturally secreted by the brain, the release of which appears to be stimulated by foot massage(4) – especially if the massage is given by a loved one!
According to foot reflexology – a form of medicine practised for thousands of years, particularly in Asia – foot massage is also said to help reduce stress and stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation.(5) Incorporating this practice into your daily routine can therefore be beneficial for both your physical and mental well-being. But you still need to know how to go about it.
How do I perform a foot self-massage?
For a successful foot massage, it is essential to be familiar with the various pressure points and techniques that ensure immediate benefits. It’s a real treat for yourself, at any time of day and as a complement to your daily skincare routine.
What are the pressure points on the feet?
To carry out a self-massage easily at home, you can divide the foot into five sections:
- the toes and their base,
- the sole of the foot,
- the heel
- the top of the foot,
- not forgetting the ankles.
Use your thumbs to apply pressure or your fingertips to make circles. You can also tap certain areas of the foot or stretch the skin from the inside out.(6)
What is the best time of day for a foot self-massage?
Due to its benefits for sleep, we recommend that you perform a foot massage at the end of the day. This will be the perfect time to let go of the day’s tensions – especially if you’re used to wearing high heels – and treat yourself to a moment of relaxation before drifting off to sleep.
However, if you feel the need, don’t wait until the evening to give yourself a foot massage. You can make the most of your lunch break or any other time during the day.
Massage your feet whilst applying your skincare products
Foot massage has another benefit: it can help your moisturisers absorb better. After a shower or bath, take a few minutes to massage your feet while applying URGO Anti-Callus Cream to treat persistent rough patches and calluses. Its precision tip allows you to target the areas affected by calluses locally, to reduce them and soften them.
A foot massage will be even more beneficial if you suffer from dry feet, as it will help to moisturise them even more effectively. URGO Filmomousse Nourishing for dry to very dry feet helps to intensely nourish your skin, and to reduce and prevent the appearance of calluses on your fragile feet. Its non-greasy formula makes for a pleasant massage that will do your feet a world of good.
The URGO product you need: URGO nourishing Filmomousse®
Good to know: don’t forget to look after your nails – they’ll also benefit from the treatment.
Every foot has its own issues: if you suffer from excessive sweating, you might find it helpful to massage your feet once a day with URGO Filmomousse Rebalancing for sweaty, smelly feet. Its formula, based on oak bark extract and common sage, helps to reduce perspiration and the associated odours. This foaming cream also rebalances the skin barrier. This care product is also non-greasy and will help you moisturise your feet whilst treating you to a well-deserved moment of relaxation.
