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With Easter in Mind

That time of year that many look forward to… For relaxation, to attend the various Lenten church mass and processions, go to the beaches, drive to the countryside, travel overseas, go to camps, and more.

Recently in conversations, I asked to be folded in three, as I’m too tall to be folded in two, and be packed in the suitcases heading to St. Lucia, Barbados, New York and Dubai respectively. I wish I was heading somewhere but that’s what it would stay, a wish! Mine is going to be a relatively quiet one, a Richard’s Bake and Shark drive with a stroll on Maracas Bay, maybe a country drive; that’ll be the extent of my travels and adventures.

At the BeachPeople at the Beach

A time when many hit the beaches, they seem almost full to capacity, people litter; so be careful when walking, especially if barefooted. No one would punish you if you walk on the sand without flip flops or bathe without beach shoes; however, if your feet are extremely sensitive or you are diabetic (and particularly one suffering with neuropathy), wearing footwear at the beach is the best way to safeguard yourself.

Carefully inspect the feet to ensure no cuts or bruising occurred; and if it did, monitor closely for a few days once your diabetes is under control.  If it is not, or you suffer with poor circulation, seek medical attention immediately to assess the severity of the wound, and receive advice or medication/ointment to dry or heal it.

Camping

Some camp right on the beach while others opt for the indoor setting. Either way, using communal bathrooms can contribute to athlete’s foot, toenail infection and surface fungus. Also, some campers go on hikes which could lead to problems as well. If doing such, ensure you use appropriate footwear to alleviate issues. You don’t want to return with a back toe or hematoma.

Church Activities

Easter is the time many frequent church, the traditional weekly goers, and the Easter/Christmas goers. Either way for Easter processionLent there are processions, and as a former altar server, I know how frenzied this period is. I used to wear heels, but learnt that being stylish wasn’t in any way a good trade off for comfort. Again, appropriate footwear is critical. Make sure it is cushioned all around including the sole too. Blisters, corns and callouses are not good companions for the rest of the holiday.

Overseas Travel

The long weekend or week long travel is usually very hectic. Whether it’s sightseeing or retail therapy, it requires an enormous amount of walking. The winter weather has and continues to be brutal this year though spring has begun for those in 4-seasons countries. The importance of suitable footwear for that climate cannot be overemphasised; it should be insulated and have good traction. Falls in the snow can be detrimental as well, especially for seniors. For those with circulation issues, your compression stockings should be part of your travel ensemble, given the hours to be spent airborne.

Many clients usually come from vacation saying they need a vacation because of the amount of knocking around they did. Their feet hurt, some complain about corns, plantar warts, or cracked heels. Do a Sauna, Pedicure and a Massage to ease those sore feet.

Kids on Vacation

A number of children complain about pains or discomfort, the feet included. With them on holidays, it’s the perfect time to get them checked out, to possibly address their issues from early, be they bio-mechanical or otherwise.

Easter is a season to not only make time for God by attending church, but to introspect and make time for his body. Start focusing more on you. No one knows your body better than you do; when it speaks to you, speak back with the necessary treatment options.

Advice to All

In all that you do, exercise wisdom! The seas tend to be brutal at these times so heed the warnings posted and listen to the life guards. With kids on vacation and the varied activities, be on the alert with them; it’s very easy to end up in harm’s way. Too many families suffer losses around this time due to inadequate supervision and accidents (especially due to drunk drivers). Have fun … but be smart and safe!

Your feet mirror your general health . . . cherish them!

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