Unfortunately, most of us take our feet for granted. They get us from place to place, support us as we stand, and are constantly under pressure (literally). And how do we thank them? By keeping them wrapped up in uncomfortable shoes all day.
However, there are some great ways to finally show these amazing workers the respect and love they deserve. Here are 7 of them.
1. DIY massage
A massage is one of the best things you can do for your feet! Sit in on a chair or couch with your foot resting on the opposite knee. Starting at the heels, use your thumbs to press into the sides and soles of your foot, working your way toward the toes.
Finish at the top of the foot, pressing into the bottom of each toe individually, and using your pointer finger to press in between your toes. When you’re done, switch feet and repeat.
For a bit less work on your part and a more intense release, you can roll a tennis ball under the soles of your feet. Spend a couple minutes on each, putting as much weight on the ball as you comfortably can.
2. Go barefoot
Giving your feet a break from shoes is very important, especially if you tend to wear shoes that are uncomfortable or put a lot of pressure on your feet, like high heels. Not to mention that when you wear shoes and socks all the time, your feet stay warm and moist: the perfect hotspot for bacteria and fungus.
Be sure to ditch the shoes and socks and go barefoot for at least short time each day. Walking barefoot outside also has the added benefit of ‘grounding,’ the practice of connecting with the earth’s energy through the soles of our feet. This practice is associated with better sleep, stress reduction, and more energy.
Barefoot exercises like yoga, pilates, and dance are also wonderful!
3. Sea salt soak
Had a long day on your feet? Soaking them in sea salt can reduce pain and soreness, soften skin, fight infections, relax your feet AND relax you. Add one teaspoon of sea salt for every cup of water. For an even more luxurious soak, add a few drops of relaxing essential oils like lavender or rosemary.
4. Wash them daily
If you’re in a hurry in the shower it can be easy to not wash your feet well—or to skip them entirely. Don’t! Feet are highly susceptible to infections, odor, and other problems. You don’t need a special wash for your feet, but be sure to wash—and dry—them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
5. Exfoliate
You don’t need to visit the spa to give your feet an exfoliating and totally rejuvenating scrub. Make your own scrub at home by combining ¼ cup organic coconut oil and ½ cup sea salt. Sugar also works! Apply at the end of your shower, scrub well, and rinse.
6. Moisturize
After your shower or before you go to bed, apply a natural moisturizer like coconut oil or shea butter to your feet, focusing on the heels, soles, and any other rough or dry areas.
7. Wear comfortable shoes
It should go without saying, but make sure your shoes fit and are comfortable. Shoes that are too tight may cause hammer toe(s), corns, ingrown toenails and all around bad-feeling feet. Too big shoes also cause problems; too much slipping and sliding around in the shoe causes blisters, calluses, and sore heels.
Some shoes, like high heels, can still be damaging even if they do fit and aren’t painful. These shoes are great for special occasions, but find a good, sturdy pair of sneakers or flats for most days.
What do you do to keep your feet happy and healthy?
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/surprising-science-behind-grounding
http://www.healthywomen.org/content/article/8-ways-treat-your-feet-right
http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/daily/regimen/5-ways-to-care-for-feet.htm#page=1
