Feet take a serious daily beating. They're walking long distances. They're running. Most of the time we are on them. Yet somehow, we tend to forget about them and wonder why when we get home they are smarting.
We should be taking as much, if not more care of our feet as we do any other part of our bodies. Women, in particular, spend thousands on manicures and facials because that's what everyone sees. What we forget is that feet also have needs.
I am no exception when it comes to neglecting my feet. It's not that I don't care about them. It's just I forget. They don't stare back at me in the mirror. They don't blink. I don't have to put lipstick on them. Or brush them. Or pluck. They're covered most of the time and far from my sight. It's lame, I know, but the truth.
So I've had to find ways to offset all the neglect I inflict on my poor aching feet. This is the best I have come up with.
Put Feet Under Cold Running Water. Not so much in the winter, but in summer. When your sandals are cutting into you because your feet are hot and swollen, it's the best thing to do to bring them down again.
Rub Vaseline on Your Heels and Your Toes. Especially when breaking in new shoes. Forget bandaids, they fall off from all the friction.
Tape the 3rd and 4th Toes Together. Something causes the nerve to flare up there. This is a no-frills doctor-approved remedy.
Stay Away From Plastic. Avoid it if at all possible. I know it's un-animal friendly to buy leather, but plastic has no give, and you need it.
Spray a Leather-Stretching Formula on Stubborn Areas. It's worth the extra money to buy a good spray from your favourite shoe store. Spray it on and place rolled-up socks in the toes for 24 hours. Stuff them in well to ensure they stretch enough.
Buy the Feet Protectors That Look Like Slippers. Made with a thin nylon fabric that fit snugly, they make walking in new runners a lot more comfortable until broken in.
Insoles Can Work Wonders. If you have problem soles, added insoles are the answer. They really help when you've been on your feet for hours.
Peppermint Oil. I absolutely love it. It's cool and refreshing, and natural. Dab it on as soon as you get home and put your feet up. Put some chenille socks on and relax. It's like heaven.
Get a Spa Pedicure. If you can afford it once in awhile, make an appointment. It's the best thing for time-challenged or stressed people who just don't have the time or energy to devote to their feet. It's a luxury that cannot be beat.
Don't wait for a special occasion to treat your feet. They need care and attention once a week. They will reward you immensely by allowing you to wear any shoe style you like. And there's nothing more beautiful than happy feet!
