Do-it-yourself blood circulation massages

Do-in massage techniques may help to improve your blood circulation. This complementary therapy is practiced gently and constantly to provide natural relief from discomforts brought on by varicose veins.

+ Do-in self-massage's origins are in ancient Oriental culture. The exercises combine a number of techniques from shiatsu, the “physical therapy of touch”. Shiatsu is similar to acupuncture but without the needles. The technique is based on gentle conscious movements to increase or decrease and finally balance the flow of energy in the body. This is why outlook and attitude are very important for these exercises. It's not effective to simply follow the steps, you need to be receptive to how the massage awakens your senses. Before beginning the massage, it's best to take a relaxing bath.

1. Work from your feet, upward. Start with your hands around your right foot.

2. Use circular motions on your ankle: one hand at a time, hugging your ankle. You can use oil or cream with gotu kola.

3. Continue with the massage, using both of your hands at the same time, working up your shin and calf.

4. On your knee, work the knee cap before the rest of the joint: using one hand at a time, with a gentle, circular motion. Continue working up the thigh, until you reach your inner thigh. If you are more comfortable, you can raise your legs. One hand should move upward, while the other works downward; and then move to the sides of your thigh. Now repeat on the other leg.