Treats for your Feet
By Melissa Matthews

It's time to step out in comfort. Our tips will leave your feet feeling rejuvenated and relaxed during the warm months.

 
   Creating Happy Feet
We spoke with Dr. Jonathan DeVierville, Spa Director of The Alamo Plaza Spa at the Menger Hotel in San Antonio, Texas, about what we can do for our tootsies when the temperature rises.

"Good circulation is key to optimum foot health", according to Dr. DeVierville. He suggests that you treat your feet after a long day of sightseeing, shopping, hiking or whatever fun activity you choose by soaking your legs from knees to toes in warm water to clean them and to open up capillaries to stimulate blood vessels. You can add a foot soak that contains Rosemary for an invigorating experience. Try Kneipp Calendula Foot Soak that will also provide a cooling effect available at Nordstrom and Marshall Fields or call 800-937-4372 for $12.

Next, quickly immerse the feet in cold water for a few seconds to increase circulation. The cold water slowly constricts the blood vessels allowing the natural blood to flow back to the area. Then he suggests letting them air dry.

Dr. DeVierville also let us in on a few great tips that can be done everyday and have healthy benefits:

He suggests walking barefoot, whenever possible on grass. It is refreshing, stimulating and easy on the feet. Do not cross your legs when sitting to allow clear blood flow to the feet at all times. Wear shoes that are breathable to cut down on bacteria build up around the feet. "Put your feet up," keeping your legs elevated after a long day keeps stress off your circulatory system and revives feet.

 
   Peppermint Honey Feet Treat
Created by Christopher Watt for the National Honey Board

A prescription for your soles. It aids in the circulation, moisturizes, softens, soothes and restores tired feet. A key ingredient in this recipe is honey. It acts as a humectant, anti-irritant and an antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of certain bacteria. This is just what your toes need in the warmer months. Enjoy!
4 tablespoons aloe vera gel
4 teaspoons grated beeswax (available at health food stores)
2 teaspoons honey
2 teaspoons fresh mint (optional)
6 drops peppermint essential oil (available at health food stores)
2 drops arnica oil (available at health food stores)
2 drops camphor oil (available at health food stores)
2 drops eucalyptus oil (available at health food stores)
Rinse mint leaves and place on a paper towel to dry. Grind mint using coffee grinder (or by hand using mortar and pestle). Set aside. Melt beeswax using a small double boiler. In a microwave safe glass bowl combine aloe vera and honey, mix well. Stir in beeswax. Let cool. Add mint and oils stirring until completely mixed. Apply after bath or shower to entire feet and toes. Store remaining feet treat in covered in cool place away from sun or heat.

Makes 2 treatments.