HAVE THE HABIT OF WASHING YOUR FEET AFTER COMING HOME? WHY AYURVEDA INSISTS ON IT
The majority of us have the practice of washing our feet as soon as we step outside. Washing our feet when we return from the outer world is not merely a sanitary habit according to Ayurveda. It is a vital daily practice known as Padaprakshalan. This easy action has numerous physical and mental health advantages in addition to cleaning our feet of perspiration and filth. This age-old technique has been shown to enhance relaxation and improve sleep, as well as prevent illnesses and balance our body's energy. Here's how this ancient practice can enhance our general health and shield us from several ailments.
Cleansing away dirt and infections
When we wash our feet after returning home, we remove all the visible dirt and grime. What we do not see is that we also remove harmful bacteria and pollutants. Our feet are constantly exposed to different environments, and failure to clean them can lead to infections like fungal growth. Ayurveda suggests that drying your feet completely after washing is just as important. Applying neem oil afterwards acts as a protective layer to further prevent infections, thanks to neem’s antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Balancing the Vata Dosha for stress relief
The Vata dosha, which controls the body's mobility and activity, is said to be related to the foot in Ayurvedic theory. Long periods of walking or standing can cause an imbalance in Vata energy This eventually gives rise to increased tension and anxiety. This energy can be calmed and balanced by washing your feet. This will help in promoting relaxation and mental clarity in addition to cleansing your body and soothing your mind.
It helps to improve the sleep cycle and relaxation
Improving the quality of your sleep is one of the main Ayurvedic benefits of bathing your feet. Because feet are so sensitive, cleaning them before going to bed at night helps to calm the nervous system as a whole. Your body winds down when you feel the cool water on your feet, which helps promote more peaceful, uninterrupted sleep. Better outcomes can be obtained by adding a few drops of lavender oil or applying neem oil after your feet have dried. These two methods both improve the relaxing benefits.
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It helps in boosting overall health and hygiene
Washing your feet is not only important for general hygiene but also for mental health. We sweat a lot on our feet, and the accumulation of moisture can cause issues like athlete's feet. Frequent cleaning helps to avoid bacterial and fungal diseases by keeping your feet dry and clean. In addition to improving hygiene, this exercise supports the body's natural detoxifying process by increasing blood circulation in the lower body.
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How to get more benefits out of this ayurvedic procedure
If you want to maximise the benefits of washing your feet, Ayurveda has some simple steps that one can follow:
- To properly wash your feet, use lukewarm water.
- Thoroughly dry your feet, particularly in the spaces between your toes.
- Use any antifungal oil, such as neem oil, to ward against infections.
- For several minutes, give your feet a little massage to enhance blood flow.