Steps against varicose veins

Massage is an ancient curing art (cultures have used this technique since 3000 BC). The following exercises may be very useful in preventing and relieving discomforts brought on by varicose veins.

+ Massage techniques may be a very effective treatment if you suffer from varicose veins, because the practice stimulates proper blood circulation. Massages can be used for surface veins or deep veins, depending on the intensity of the massage. It's important to follow the direction of the flow of blood with the movements of the massage. Always massage upward toward the heart. Don't scratch varicose veins, because ulcers can form, which can further complicate the condition and discomfort. The following steps or “touches” are recommended for those who suffer from varicose veins:

ENERGETIC TOUCHES

Before beginning the massage, you should do this energy cleansing that moves in a downward direction:

Run your open hands over the person receiving the massage, barely touching. Only touch the skin slightly with your fingertips. Moving from the top of the leg to the foot, with long strokes. The hands work alternately; when one hand finishes a downward stroke, the other should continue downward from above it. Repeat this exercise on each leg two or three times. The person should then lie on his or her belly, to receive the energy strokes on the back of the legs.

CALMING TOUCHES

This exercise consists of gently touching the legs with your hands, using only the fingertips in long uni-directional strokes.

Using gentle pressure, run your palms from the feet up to the thighs of the person receiving the massage. The hands should work alternately, so that when a stroke ends the other follows its path. Repeat two or three times, with a good rhythm. Continue with the person lying on his belly, and start the same process again.

BASIC TIPS

• Relaxing environment. The room should be comfortable, with enough space, light and order. The room should be comfortably warm.
• Correct surface. If you perform the massage on the ground, it's best to use a padded mat covered with a sheet or large towel.
• Silence. You can put soft music in the background, but the massage should be done in silence, without words.
• Accessories. You can light candles or a clay aromatherapy pot with a few drops of essential oil for a slight, pleasant aroma (such as lavender or citrus lemon)
• Fluid and gentle touch. Your hands warm up quickly during a massage, which can cause tugging of the muscles. We recommend using a cream or neutral oil warmed to body temperature.

RENOVATING YOUR VEINS

This massage consists of ample movements with the palms of the hands and fingers. They should gently but firmly caress the skin using upward movements (toward the heart). The massage helps the body to drain fluids near the skin's surface. The hands help the body to transport the blood with its waste products, so that the area can be nourished with fresh blood.

Gently apply pressure along the innersole of the foot all the way to the inner thigh, trying to rub the entire surface of the leg. Repeat three times; then ask the person receiving the massage to lie on his belly, to complete this massage on the other side of the legs.

WARNING

If you do the massage yourself, remember to never massage directly on varicose veins. Always use gentle pressure.

KNEADING WITH YOUR FINGERS

This massage uses your fingertips on the skin. With your hand cupped and your fingers bent, each finger should make small, outward and circular movement. The right hand should move clock-wise and the left hand counter clock-wise.

First, work on the feet. Next with your hand on each side, work up the feet to the knee and then massage downward. Repeat two or three times, covering the entire leg's surface.