Happy Yoga Feet
Feet, for some of us, are the foundation for movement, sports, transportation, adventure, and so much more. When our feet hurt, doing anything routine like walking or standing can feel unbearable.
As a teacher, I am on my feet most of the day, standing and walking on concrete in addition to walking about 5 -10 miles per day. All of my kiddos are soccer and hockey players, so we routinely notice and resolve foot issues with home treatment methods. Today I wanted to pass along some simple actions we can incorporate into our daily lives that might be able to prevent or alleviate some common foot issues. This post is inspired by a podcast interview by yoga teacher Shannon Crow and a physical therapist-yoga teacher, Diana Zodos Florio. They also discussed a common bottom of the foot issue, plantar fasciitis, and some ways that yoga can help. Here are a few of her recommendations for helping plantar fasciitis and for general foot wellness.
Walk barefoot when possible, even if it’s for 10 minutes a day indoors
Stand with your three points of the foot balanced on the ground - the center of the heel, ball of the foot on the little toe side, ball of the foot on the big toe side
Roll a tennis or other small ball between your foot and the floor for gentle pressure to relieve soreness
Stretch your calves regularly
Notice your shoe shape in the toe area (is it wide enough?)
Walk with a heel to toe motion
If you are interested in listening or reading more, check out The Connected Yoga Teacher Episode 337.
Do you wish you could add a little yoga practice to your day but don’t have time to run to a studio or class? Try my 15 minute FREE morning yoga class! Learn more about it and register at my site Yoga @ Home! You can also check out my other offerings to help you fit more movement into your day.
