Next time your other half turns down your request for a foot massage, keep calm. They might just need a bit of encouragement. The following points show how it’ll actually benefit them, not just you. With science to back it up. (We. Are. So. Selfless.) And if they still say no? Well, a professional massage therapist will do a better job, anyway.
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1 It inspires calm
It not only feels amazing – it also reduces tension. One study found that just a 10-minute foot rub had the ability to reduce anxiety and boost the mood of people who were suffering from stress. Even though the foot rub's just on your feet, it actually has a therapeutic effect on your mind and body.
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2 It can give headaches the boot
The health-enhancing effects of reflexology focus on manipulating points on the feet – so you could ditch the paracetamol. Dutch researchers found that 65% of people who had a foot massage saw reduced symptoms of headaches and migraines, while some were completely pain-free. Who knew our feet could have such a big impact on our wellbeing?
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3 It'll kick PMS
If your therapist focuses their efforts on the reflex points of the reproductive system, it can help put paid to the monthly angst / intermittent bouts of tears and hysteria / headaches / nausea … OK you get the idea. A study from the California Graduate Institute found that women who had reflexology reported a noticeable reduction in their PMS symptoms.
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4 It brings 40 winks one step closer
We've got a whole load more foot puns up our sleeves, but this is the last benefit to mention for now. Which is that it could boost the chances of you getting some decent shut-eye. One study found that a simple foot massage led to a reduction in sleep disturbances by improving blood circulation and aiding relaxation. Much more enjoyable than counting sheep in the small hours.