Zen at Your Feet: Combining Meditation with Foot Massage

2. The Science Behind Foot Massage and Meditation

Modern studies have revealed amazing new ideas on how meditation and foot massages impact our neurological system. Combining these techniques turns on the parasympathetic nerve system, sometimes known as the "rest and digest" mode, which opposes the fight-or-flight reaction. Regular foot massages have been shown in studies to boost circulation, lower blood pressure, and ease many kinds of pain. Meditation has been shown, meantime, to raise grey matter density in brain areas linked to memory, learning, and emotional control. The advantages are enhanced when various techniques are combined. During meditation, the mild pressure used in a foot massage grounds the mind, therefore facilitating the maintenance of concentration and the attainment of more profound levels of relaxation. This mix also increases melatonin production, so improving sleep patterns and general wellbeing.