A nice relaxing foot soak is always nourishing for the soul. Often times we just too busy to allow ourselves that luxury.
I occasionally make a foot soak in the evening while enjoying some meditative music, a good movie or an episode of our favorite series. It gives me a nice relaxing end to the day, and my body will love you for it.
You should try it!
Once you feel the calmness and inner peace this foot soak gives you, I’m pretty confident you will do it on a regular basis.
What are the benefits
We are on our feet all day, every day, so they need to be taken care of, just like our face.
Using Epson Salt, and your favorite essential oils, is the most simple way you can do a foot soak.
I always say “Everyone needs Epson Salt in their home remedie cupboard”.
Epson Salt
Epsom salt is a popular remedy for muscle aches and stress. People use Epsom salt foot soaks for a range of foot related complaints.
It’s a natural compound that contains magnesium sulfate and has a crystallized structure. People have used Epsom Salt for hundreds of years to treat muscle soreness and pain, as well as supporting the immune system. Today it is also used for Detoxing heavy metals and other toxins from the body.
If you have a tub in your bathroom, you should draw yourself a nice warm bath with 2 cups of Epson Salt.
Here is a great article about the benefits of using Epson Salt.
Essential oils
Another must have in your home remedie cupboard is Essential oils. Make sure to get a good quality from your favorite Essential oil lady. They often offer a small kit with the most common oils.
For this evening foot soak I recommend Lavender and Chamomile, as they have a relaxing effect on you, and help you to wined down before bedtime.
Lavender has been valued for centuries for its distinctive fragrance and its traditional use in relaxation and personal care.
In aromatherapy, lavender is particularly associated with calming the mind, easing feelings of tension and preparing for restful sleep. Research into lavender aromatherapy has also shown promising results for relaxation and anxiety, although effects vary depending on how it is used.
Lavender essential oil contains naturally occurring compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to its characteristic aroma and have been studied for their potential calming effects.
For an evening foot soak, I particularly like lavender because its gentle floral fragrance creates a pleasant atmosphere for slowing down after a busy day.
Chamomile has a long history in traditional herbal practices, including use for relaxation, digestive discomfort and skin care.
There are different varieties of chamomile. Roman chamomile is especially popular in aromatherapy for its sweet, apple-like fragrance, while German chamomile is known for its naturally occurring compounds, including chamazulene, which has been studied for anti-inflammatory activity.
Chamomile essential oil is traditionally used in calming aromatherapy blends and preparations intended for sensitive or irritated skin. However, the effects depend on the variety, concentration and method of use.
For an evening foot soak, chamomile complements lavender beautifully. Its softer fragrance adds to the relaxing experience, making it a lovely choice when you want to set aside a little time for yourself.
A warm foot soak is one of my favorite ways to wind down after a busy day. Put on some relaxing music, watch your favorite show or just enjoy a little quiet time.
What you’ll need
- 1 small foot tub or basin, large enough for both feet
- Comfortably warm water, enough to cover your feet
- ½–1 cup Epsom salt
- 2 drops lavender essential oil
- 2 drops Roman chamomile essential oil (German chamomile is another option)
- An unscented bath oil dispersant suitable for essential oils, used according to the manufacturer’s instructions
- A soft towel
- Your favorite moisturizing foot cream
How to prepare your foot soak
- Fill your basin with comfortably warm water, leaving enough room for your feet without overflowing.
- Add the Epsom salt and stir until dissolved.
- Mix the essential oils with your bath dispersant according to its instructions, then add the mixture to the water. Essential oils should never be added directly to the water because they do not dissolve on their own.
- Sit back, relax and soak your feet for approximately 15–20 minutes.
- Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, and finish with a gentle foot massage using your favorite moisturizing cream.
A little extra relaxation
If you enjoy reflexology, this is also a lovely time to give your feet some additional attention.
You can find inspiration in my free 3 Days DIY Reflexology for Immune Support e-book.
And if you’d like to make your own moisturizing cream, here’s my recipe for Magic All Purpose Cream.
A few things to keep in mind
Essential oils are optional. A warm foot soak without them can be just as enjoyable.
Always use properly dispersed essential oils, and avoid them if you have known sensitivities or allergies. Chamomile can cause reactions in people allergic to plants in the daisy family.
Avoid soaking irritated or broken skin. If you have reduced sensation in your feet, neuropathy, circulation problems or diabetes-related foot complications, consult your healthcare professional before using a foot soak.
Sometimes, taking care of ourselves starts with setting aside just 20 minutes to do something we enjoy.
