Let's talk about feet, baby!

These are mine. The fact that I'm posting a picture of them? Definitely feeling the fear and doing it anyway! Not my best feature from my perspective; hard skin, bunions, calloused toes and weirdly growing toenails, courtesy of years of running damaging them! Oh and the "fashion" shoes I've crammed my feet into over the years! And after my parents spent a small fortune on Startrite shoes when I was a kid....sorry mum and dad!

When I was training, I made a promise to myself that I would take better care of my feet and even try to love them. Why? Well, I have not been grateful enough for everything they do for me! Literally keeping me upright and mobile. For all the steps walked and kilometres run? My feet have been leading the charge of my body!

And in yoga! Everything starts from the feet. Connection to the floor/ ground/ mat beneath you. "Your legs mirror everything you do with your feet. The position of your feet and the distribution of weight through them, will affect the position, function and flow of force higher up through your knees, your hips, and even your back" (Farhi, 2000) So fairly fundamental!

I used to be anxious about taking my socks off....I was always concerned that someone would be looking at my feet and criticising them! Gradually I got over myself. But it took time. I still struggle with cramp when my feet are cold and I am mindful of my feet being in need of moisturiser. As a teacher? I'm really not checking out anyone's feet except for positioning and to keep people safe in asana practice! Honestly!

So, don't be afraid! Release those feet for improved connection and see how you feel. Hopefully, you'll have better connection and feel even more grounded and secure in your practice...perhaps not just physically!

I now treat my feet to regular medi-pedis to keep them neat and tidy. And thanks to the fabulous Kirsty, I'm beginning to appreciate mine all the more! www.healthyfeetmk.co.uk