Summer is the season of vacations and travel. Some head out into the countryside for a good hike, others prefer to explore cities. In all cases, we take home a variety of experiences from our travels, and plenty of miles in our legs. That's why we should repay our feet with loving care. How exactly? We have a few suggestions for you!
 

Wellness that any feet will appreciate

What comes to your mind when you hear the word wellness? Smell, massage, bath? You can treat your feet with all this. Start with a relaxing bath adding natural essential oils to the water in a tub or a bassin. We particularly recommend lavender, peppermint, rosemary and eucalyptus. Using bath salts with these herbs is also very relaxing. Let your feet rest in the bath for at least 10 to 15 minutes to relieve muscle tension.

The next step is a relaxing foot massage, that you can also do in pairs.

• Start massaging your toes. Take each one in your hand and gently rub them down from the foot to the toe. It's also soothing to relax the toes by placing your fingers in the spaces between your toes and gently moving your foot side to side.
  
  
• Continue at the midpoint of the foot. Gently squeeze the instep of the foot with your thumbs from the heel towards the toes. Pay special attention to the arch of the foot and massage it with your thumbs in gentle circular motion. Repeat the movement several times.
  
  
• Now it's time for a heel massage. Place one foot on your other knee and start massaging the heel by gently squeezing it with your thumbs. Repeat the movement several times and then switch feet.
  
  
• Don't forget about your ankles. Hold the foot with one hand and use the other to do circular movements around the ankle. Apply light pressure and work your way up and down. Then switch again. 
  
  
• Finally, proceed to a full foot massage. Use your whole hands, thumbs and fingers to stimulate the foot surface. Include squeezing, circular movements, tapping, stroking - simply any motions that feel good and that will help optimise blood circulation and relieve the foot muscles. Focus particularly on your problematic and aching areas. Give them extra time and attention.
  
  
• After the massage, give your feet a few minutes to rest and relax. You can also use a cooling gel as a nice final touch.

Keep in mind that foot massage should be pleasant and pain-free. Listen to your body and adapt the massage to your needs. You'll see that your feet will definitely appreciate the care.

A barefoot walk in the nature

A barefoot walk on a natural surface is the ultimate experience for your feet, body and mind. You will particularly enjoy walking on dewy grass, sand on the shore, conifer branches or in a natural water stream. The different surfaces naturally stimulate the acupressure points in your feet and so have a positive effect on your overall well-being and health.

Another great option are massage paths, which you can find on some hiking trails, in nature gardens and parks. The paths are made up of several fields with natural materials of different types, shapes and textures. These include sand, bark, pine cones, or pebbles. In more sophisticated massage paths you can also find a mud section and followed by a pleasant shower.

Adequate hydration and protection

Proper foot care also involves adequate hydration and protection. Especially in summer, feet are prone to dryness and skin cracking, especially in the heel and toe area. Use moisturisers or natural oils to soften your feet, or natural waxes to treat very stressed feet.

Your feet will also benefit from regular pedicure. Trim your toenails regularly, take care of the nail beds and soften hardened skin. If you don't dare to do it yourself, leave your feet to professionals who will give them a thorough treatment.

The right healthy footwear

And what is the very foundation of happy feet? Shoes that make them feel comfortable - that don't cause blisters, don't cause deformities such as bunions or hammertoes, and don't make your feet sweat excessively.

A great option are barefoot slip-on sneakers that you can quickly slip into and head outside. What's more, they're made from eco-friendly hemp canvas, which has excellent features - it's highly absorbent, breathable and antimicrobial, keeping your feet fresh and dry for a long time, even on hot summer days. Discover our VELIK and VIKLA slip-on models, which are absolutely perfect for summer adventures.

Stylish slip-on barefoot sneakers VELIK.