This traditional Chinese treatment is based on the belief that ‘the feet are the mirror of the body ‘ and the specific points on the soles of the feet represent different organs of the body. Foot massage focuses totally on the feet to balance the energy flow in the body and relax the mind.
Is there anything better than a foot massage after sightseeing all day? However, foot massages have an array of benefits other than simple relaxation. From enhancing circulation to decreasing stress levels and relieving pain, a foot massage is the ultimate pampering and luxurious experience. In this blog, we explore various types, advantages, and techniques of a Turkish foot massage and how you can get one to experience its invigorating effects.
A foot massage also goes by the name, foot sole massage, or a foot sole reflexology massage. It is a therapeutic massage variety that aims to exploit various pressure points in the soles of the feet to enhance health and well-being. The concept of a foot massage is based on the belief that these pressure points connect to the various organ/organ systems. By manipulating these pressure points strategically during a foot sole reflexology massage, the massage therapist attempts to enhance blood circulation and promote vitality.
This brings forth the question of how to do a foot massage. A reflexology foot massage is the zone of the expert massage therapist. To effectively perform it, the massage therapist needs to have knowledge of pressure points and the appropriate techniques to elicit a therapeutic response. Hurrem Sultan Hammam offers its guests a chance to experience the healing energy of a foot reflexology massage performed by following age-old Turkish bathhouse techniques.
A foot sole massage incorporates the therapeutic movements of the thumb, hand, and fingers of the massage therapist to target approximately 7000 nerve endings corresponding to various body parts. Performed properly, this versatile reflexology massage augments health by removing energy blockages and promoting natural healing in the body.
During a foot massage at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam, the massage therapists divide the soles of the feet into so-called “foot massage areas”. This makes it easier to focus on specific healing aims and isolate particular body parts during the massage. The foot sole massage points are as follows:
Toes – Correspond to the nasal sinuses, head, and brain
Heel – Corresponds to the back (lower), intestines (small and large), and Sciatic nerve
Balls of feet – Correspond to heart and lungs
Arches of the feet – Corresponds to the digestive tract, the liver and kidneys
There isn’t much difference in foot massage techniques based on gender. However, there may be slight differences based on individual needs, pressure preferences, and anatomical adjustments.
A foot sole massage in men requires more pressure due to a larger surface area and thicker skin. The areas of focus usually are the Achilles tendon, heels, and the arches of the feet. Most massage therapists use the thumb-kneading technique and massage pressure points to trigger muscle relaxation in men. As an added treatment, the focus for the male feet is generally on exfoliation of the skin.
During a female foot massage, gentler pressure is applied. The areas of focus for women are the balls of their feet and the toes. During a Turkish foot massage on a female client, massage therapists use circular and flowy strokes to enhance circulation and invite calm energy. For extra pampering, female foot massage sessions focus on skin moisturization and hydration. Women have more sensitive skin and are highly receptive to the foot sole massage benefits.
Another name for a reflexology massage is “Zone therapy. Reflexology massage is an alternative therapeutic technique that focuses on hands, feet, and ears. A reflexology foot massage at Hurrem Sultan Hammam incorporates hand, thumb, and finger massage techniques to improve immunity, achieve hormonal balance, and improve overall well-being.
Many ask the question, what is a foot massage good for apart from being relaxing? A reflexology foot massage is not just a restful experience, it may have benefits for people suffering from thyroid problems, back pain, gout, flat feet, plantar fasciitis, etc. You can even ask your massage therapist to customize the massage points according to your needs. There are foot reflexology charts available with all the foot massage points clearly marked to better understand the process.
The common foot sole massage benefits for various organs/organ systems are as follows:
Nervous System – Promotes calmness, serenity, and emotional balance
Sleep – Better quality of sleep and stable sleep patterns
Pain relief – Relieves lower back pain, foot discomfort, sinus pain, headaches
Digestive System – Streamlines digestion in the stomach and the intestines
Energy – Increases energy levels by improving nerve function and immunity
To further enhance the therapeutic benefits of a foot massage, essential oils may be incorporated. Even by spending a short duration of 35 minutes under the nibble and healing hands of the Hurrem Sultan Hammam’s massage therapists, you can achieve rejuvenation that will last for weeks. Essential and carrier oils that can enhance a foot reflexology massage experience may include the following:
For Calmness – Sandalwood, Chamomile, and Lavender essential oils
For Pain-relief And Inflammation – Ginger, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus essential oils
For Hydration – Coconut, Almond, and Olive oil
Stimulants – Lemongrass, Rosemary, and Tea-tree essential oils
Carrier Oils – Grapeseed, Jojoba, and Sweet Almond
These versatile carriers and essential oils make it easier to understand which oil is more suitable for a foot massage session in Istanbul.
Traditional and Modern Foot Massage Experience: Discover It at Hürrem Sultan Hammam!
Experience the traditional and modern foot massage techniques at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam, where the centuries-old Turkish bath rituals are preserved and practiced to this day. All the materials incorporated during a foot sole massage at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam are specifically made keeping the individual needs of the clients in mind.
If you live in Istanbul or are visiting this historical gem of a city, don’t miss a chance to refresh and rejuvenate with a healing foot sole massage session at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring historical architecture, a relaxing foot massage at the Hurrem Sultan Hammam is an experience that everyone deserves to have at least once in their lifetime. Indulge in this perfect blend of old and new – Book your Turkish foot massage at the Hurrem Sultan hammam today!
