At home hydrotherapy is an incredibly helpful tool during trying times. The exposure to temperatures outside of our normal range build resilience in the body and improve circulation and thermal control.
See a video explaining Magic Socks and the below instructions so you have guidance as you try this simple and effective therapy on your own.
Magic Socks
This is a therapy that is simple to do at home. Hydrotherapy means that it uses the healing properties of water (ie the temperature) to cause the body to respond in a specific way. It is deemed "magic socks" in my office however it is also known as Warming Socks or Wet Socks. I recommend doing it every night right before bed for 3 nights when you feel a cold, flu or sinus congestion, or other illness coming on. I do not recommend this for people who have Raynaud’s, circulation issues, or loss of sensation on their feet. Most people find this to be a fantastic therapy to have in their self-care toolbox.
Materials needed:
thin cotton socks
thick wool socks
cold and hot water
Steps:
Get your feet very warm. Soak them in a hot foot bath or take a toasty shower. Soak until feet feel very warm usually 10-15 minutes.
Consider drinking a hot cup of tea to warm yourself from the inside as well.
Soak a pair of very thin cotton socks (ankle high is fine) in very cold water. For added contrast, add ice cubes to the water or place socks in the refrigerator.
Dry your feet and wring out the cotton socks.
Put on the cotton socks then put a pair of very thick (dry) wool socks on over the cotton socks.
Go straight to bed and rest.
In the morning, your socks will be dry, your feet will be warm and your head will feel clear.
We want to hear from you. Tag us @shawfamilypractice when you have given it a try.
If you would like to see a video explaining this at home therapy see Shaw Family Practice’s Youtube Channel https://youtu.be/wLYJc9u5Wi4
