DIY Pregnancy Foot Soak
Pregnancy can be a time of great happiness, joy and excitement. But it can also suck at times - especially with all of the bodily changes you go through. The stretch marks, the aching hips, the sore breasts - just to name a few. But one of the most common complaints of pregnancy (especially towards the end) are the swollen feet and ankles. As your blood volume increases and your circulation slows, edema (swelling) can occur at any time during pregnancy, but becomes more painful and more frustrating as the months go on.
Caring for your self is crucial in pregnancy, so today I’m sharing a luxurious, yet simple DIY for a homemade pregnancy foot soak. This soak is geared towards relaxation and time to destress while also helping reduce swelling and soreness in your feet.
Simple Ingredients for A DIY Pregnancy Foot Soak
1¼ cups of Epsom salt.
When added to water epsom salts break down into two components: magnesium and sulfate. These components are known to have useful properties that draw moisture out of your tissue and help your aching feet feel better.
1¼ cups of Kosher or Himalayan salt.
These help stimulate circulation.
5 drops of lavender essential oil*
Lavender is soothing and addresses inflammation.
3-5 drops of peppermint essential oil*
Peppermint is cooling and anti-inflammatory.
Optional: A glass container for storage
If you like you can double or triple the batch so you don’t have to make a new batch each time. A mason jar with a tight sealing lid works great for longer term storage. If you do make ahead, you’ll mix all the dry ingredients together and store in the jar then add the essential oils when you’re ready to enjoy your soak.
How to Make Your Homemade Foot Soak
Once you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, prepare a bowl or pail with warm water large enough to accommodate both of your feet.
Prepare a large bowl or tub with enough warm water to cover up to your ankles when your feet are submerged
Add epsom salt and kosher salt to your bowl or tub - swish around with your hands to help the salts dissolve.
Add your preferred essential oils.
Find a comfy chair and relax for 10-15 minutes while your feet soak. This is a great time to listen to pregnancy affirmations or practice some deep breathing techniques in preparation for labor.
Using this homemade foot soak is an inexpensive and easy way to reduce the foot swelling that is oh so common in pregnancy. It also allows you to take time each day to focus on your own self-care and put practices in place that you can take with you into motherhood.
Want more tips on incorporating essential oils into pregnancy and labor? Check out our other blogs posts:
Essential Oils for Labor & Birth
RESOURCES FOR SAFE ESSENTIAL OIL USE IN PREGNANCY:
*Consult with your care provider before using essential oils in pregnancy & postpartum
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