I’m a huge fan of healing clays. I like to use them in the bath for myself and my kids, on my face as a mask, and even on my armpits to detox and keep odors at bay. One of my favorite and easier ways to use them is through a foot detox. It offers similar benefits to a clay or salt bath but with less fuss.
Our feet work hard every day, whether we’re walking around, chasing after kids, working at a standing desk, wearing high heels, or cooking. A foot massage or pedicure feels so good because our feet hold more stress than we often realize, and relaxing them helps relax our entire body. Even a simple foot soak in hot water with Epsom salt is calming, but adding a few extra ingredients can boost the relaxation and health benefits.
I love adding Bentonite clay because it’s great for the body in many ways. Bentonite clay stands out because when it gets wet, it produces an electrical charge that helps it absorb toxins. It’s known for its ability to draw out and remove toxins, heavy metals, impurities, and chemicals. Bentonite clay is unique because it swells when mixed with water, acting like a sponge that draws toxins in through electrical attraction.
This clay carries a strong negative charge that bonds with the positive charge in many toxins. When it meets a toxin, chemical, or heavy metal, it absorbs these and releases minerals for the body to use. It also boosts oxygen to cells by pulling away excess hydrogen, allowing cells to take in more oxygen.
My favorite recipe for a relaxing detox foot soak involves bentonite clay and Epsom salts. I discovered a unique way to prepare it to get the most out of these ingredients. I start by mixing 1/2 cup of Epsom salt into the foot soak water, using something like a small tub or bucket.
I dissolve the Epsom salt in hot water (not boiling) and put it on a towel. Then, I mix 2 tablespoons of bentonite clay with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a bowl, adding water to thin it if needed. I coat my feet with this mixture and let them dry for about 10 minutes.
By this time, the water has cooled enough to soak my feet. I sometimes add 10 drops of essential oils to the water. When my feet are in the tub, the dried clay gradually dissolves, and the Epsom salts start to work their magic. I soak for about 15 minutes, then gently scrub my feet with a natural brush. After rinsing and patting them dry, I usually do this before bed because it’s super relaxing, although you can do it anytime.
Do you enjoy pampering your feet? What’s your favorite way to do it?
