Care for feet

One should not forget about looking after the feet because they are hidden. They need regular care not only to make them look good but also to avoid such crippling conditions like corns and callouses, which can lead to painful feet. Besides, the strain of tried and aching feet will adversely affect even the most beautiful face. It will also cause a loss of balance while walking and promote tension and irritability.

111-fitting shoes are the most likely cause of foot problems. Shoes should therefore be always chosen for comfort. They should support the arch of the foot well and should allow ample room for the toes. Shoes with high heels and pointed toes should never be worn as these prove harmful.

Like the hands, the feet should be kept in good shape with a few simple exercises. A useful exercise for the feet is to arch the ankles, bend the toes and flex the whole foot first thing in the morning. Walking is one of the best exercises for the feet. Feet that are sore and swollen after a long day, should be relaxed by placing them. In case of cold feet a massage with olive oil will help greatly. An ancient remedy for tried feet is to soak them alternately in hot and cold water, finishing with the cold water. Soaking the feet in warm water, to which Epson salts or special foot salts have been added, can be very soothing, but the feet should be rubbed over afterwards with eau-de-cologne to counteract any softening effect.

The toe nails should be given as much attention as the nails of the hands. An orange stick tipped with cotton wool should be used to clean around the nails. Particular attention should be paid to the sides of the nails where dirt tends to collect. Thereafter, a generous amount of moisturizing body lotion should be rubbed all over the feet.

To keep the feet smelling fresh, especially in hot weather, a deodorizing talcum powder should be applied each morning after washing. Socks, if used, should be washed daily.

The knees also to be looked after. The should be made weat and rubbed thoroughly with two tablespoons of powdered groundnut mixed with a tablespoon of salt. After a few minutes, they should be rinsed and a film of sesame oil mixed with a few drops of vinegar should be apllied. Regular massage in this manner will keep them in good condition.