Your feet work hard for you. You need to take time and show them a little kindness too. Since our feet have the most and largest pores of the body, a foot soak can be very effective in a short amount of time.
5 Benefits of a Foot Soak
Boost your magnesium intake
Ease stress, improve sleep
Reduce inflammation, reduce muscle pain
Flush toxins
Helpful during illness, clear congestion
To get started, you’ll need something large enough for both your feet and deep enough that the water reaches your ankles. I use the plastic dish tub; make sure your feet fit comfortably.
Place a bath towel under your tub where you will be sitting during your soak. It will catch splashes and give you a place to put your feet when you finish your soak.
Fill container with water that’s hot enough without burning your skin, very warm water is needed for a good soak. Only fill to just cover the tops of your feet. This will make it easier to carry from sink to floor.
Add 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup of Epsom salts. Stir to dissolve.
Ease your feet into the very, very warm water and close your eyes. Oh my goodness, heavenly! Relax and renew for 10 to 15 minutes.
*Red Shoe Reflexology tip: Put smooth rocks in the bottom of the tub. The rocks hold the warmth of the water a bit longer and they stimulate the nerve endings on the bottoms of your feet. If you pick up the rocks with your toes it is a wonderful exercise, working the muscles in the arch of your feet. This exercise helps with plantar fasciitis. Besides that, it’s just fun!
*Red Shoe Reflexology tip: Add 2 – 3 drops of pure essential oil. Let your nose tell you what is best for your body. I would choose Lavender or Lemongrass to calm, Geranium or Rosewood for depression, Peppermint for stomach or headache, Ravensara, Rosemary or Cypress to aide with a cold.