When is the last time you gave your feet and toes some love? All day long you stand on them, stuff them into strappy sandals and sweaty athletic shoes, and put all your weight and mass upon them. We think you should give extra care and attention to your feet every day, but if you’ve been neglecting your foot health, here’s what you can do:
Extra Love: Give those feet the love they deserve. Soak them in warm water with essential oils once or twice a week, pat them dry, give them a massage (including those ten little piggies) and then apply a luxuriating oil or lotion. For all you barefoot gypsies, you probably have calluses from going around sans shoes so treat yourself to an exfoliating treatment.
Yoga: You bet there are yoga positions beneficial to your feet. Here are three…
Warrior Two – this increases the flexibility and agility of your ankles plus builds strength into the arches of your feet. Overall, you also gain stability and balance which again, rests largely upon your feet and foundation.
Toe-Stretching Forward Fold – Stiff shoe-wearers will especially appreciate this position and its benefits. Wiggle those toes. Massage your ankles. Flex your feet. Point your arches forward. This position can actually relieve pain in the feet, so if you work in food service or other careers requiring long hours on your feet, you’ll love this.
Upward Facing Dog – Now it’s time to give the top of your feet the attention they deserve. This position eases pressure on your arches, massages the tops of your feet and toes, and increases your mobility and flexibility. A huge relief!!
There are also excellent yoga mats that are especially helpful for your podiatric care. Just ask us the next time you are in studio.
Lastly, you can also give some love to your feet by wearing supportive shoes, taking breaks when you can, and keeping them sweat-free. Oh, and we also suggest you dance often. You want to treat your feet well, not inactive!