*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Blurb: Are you a massage therapist? Are you just looking to learn foot massage techniques in order to apply them to family members and friends? Then this book is for you! It contains many techniques for the foot, the ankle and the lower leg, with detailed instructions. Indications and contraindications are mentioned clearly.
What you will find in this book:
– Information about the most common foot and ankle pathologies (cuboid syndrome, plantar fasciitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome etc.), with instructions concerning the application of Thai Foot Massage.
– Massage techniques for the sole and the dorsal surface of the foot, for the ankle and the lower leg.
– How to apply massage techniques with wooden reflexology tools, in order to work deeper and more efficiently with less effort.
– A Thai “reflexology” foot chart (not a typical, specific reflexology chart), which depicts the Thai acupressure points on the foot.
– Work with wooden massage tools, and learn towel massage: two unique features of Thai Foot Massage, which will set you apart as a therapist.
– A section on self-foot massage, so that you can apply these wonderful techniques on yourself. Really useful for people with chronic foot and / or leg pain, and athletes.
After studying this book, you will be able to offer a 60 minutes foot massage, or choose a set of appropriate techniques that can be incorporated in your treatments.
Elefteria is a renowned author and massage instructor, with +15 years of teaching experience. She studied Thai Massage and Thai Foot Massage in Chiang Mai, Thailand.
This book is a revised edition of Elefteria’s 2013 “Thai Foot and Hand Massage” book.
This book is exactly as described: it is a useful and comprehensive guide to the art of Thai Foot Massage, theory and practice.
The book begins with lengthy sections that lay out the therapeutic benefits and contraindications of the practice; its history and cultural status; the anatomy of the foot and leg, with diagrams detailing the structure of the feet (bones, muscles, arches); and the spiritual basis for the activity.
The author then lays out her standard routine, split into six sections, before going on to provide a clear, step-by-step guide to each part of said routine. Each instruction is accompanied by a picture that helps to identify the positioning and movements described in the text.
As a complete newcomer to Thai Foot Massage who gave the book a go, I can confirm that the instructions are very easy to understand and follow, although I suspect it takes plenty of practise to be able to judge how much cream to use, what pressure to use, and to get the movements smooth and natural-feeling!
The book ends with a sample ‘Client Intake Form’ that you can use if you plan to set up a home business performing the massages, and also a very handy mini-guide to self-foot-massage techniques, for when you feel like treating yourself to some of what you have learned.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in trying Thai Foot Massage, for business or pleasure, especially if you are a complete beginner to the art – this book will provide all of the information you need to get started.
May these techniques be useful for your practice. If you have not attended a course, I hope it will inspire you to learn some type of massage therapy and bodywork. This, I believe, is a sacred art, and it has a huge impact on one’s character and life if practised with sincerity and dedication.
– Elefteria Mantzorou, The Complete Guide to Thai Foot Massage
Find more from Elefteria Mantzorou at her website here, or follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Goodreads.
The Complete Guide to Thai Foot Massage is available on Amazon right now!
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