Simple Massage Technique for Better Sleep!
July 9, 2019
TROUBLE FALLING ASLEEP? THE SOLUTION COULD BE IN YOUR FEED!
Try this 1 simple foot massage technique before bed for relaxation & better sleep
A restful night’s sleep is the best, but sometimes peaceful, restorative slumber is evasive. Perhaps because of the stresses of the day or worries about that big presentation tomorrow keep turning over in your head and preventing the sandman from coming.
There are nearly 15,000 nerves in your feet alone. Reflexology uses pressure points on specific areas to stimulate nerve endings. Different areas of the foot correspond to different parts of the body. This is one of many reasons that foot reflexology is so calming, soothing and effective and this could be the key to falling asleep and resting well.
The ball of the foot area corresponds with the solar/plexus (diaphragm) and pressure and massage in this area encourages profound relaxation and peacefulness. So how do you massage this area? The answer is as simple as an inexpensive foot roller tool or even a simple wooden rolling pin.
Foot rollers like a small version of a foam roller, which are a commonplace tool used in massage therapy, in gyms before and after workouts, and with physical therapy patients. Research shows that foam rollers are very beneficial for the muscles, which your feet contain plenty of. Foot rollers offer similar benefits as well as increased circulation, working the fascia, lymphatic drainage. They are generally a bit firmer than the standard foam roller and most have a ribbed surface. They couldn’t be simpler to use, just place it on the floor and roll back and forth under your foot, applying as much pressure as desired. Don’t have a foot roller, grab that rolling pin from the kitchen cupboard and use that, it will work just as well.
Another option particularly useful if you want to pinpoint some smaller areas under the foot are small balls. These can come in many forms from simple tennis balls to wooden options. The firmness is a matter of personal preference.
If you’re having trouble getting to sleep, try rolling the bottom of each foot for a few moments. You may be pleasantly surprised at how relaxing and stress relieving it is. Reflexology can transport you into a state of deep relaxation which is is a good time for a pre-sleep affirmation.
Count your blessings, appreciate all of the good times in your day, envision how you would like your next day to be and drift peacefully off to sleep.
