Nothing is worse than sore, painful feet and many women over 50 have to suffer this daily affliction. Too many years of wearing unsuitable shoes and spending hours on your feet as part of you work and home lives with little time to pamper yourself will eventually catch up with you.

Health issues such as poor circulation, diabetes and carrying extra weight can cause foot problems as well. Remaining mobile after 50 is crucial in terms of maintaining your health and enjoying a good quality of life, so place caring for your feet at the top of your agenda.

Bunions, hammer toes, corns and calluses can all be dealt with by a good chiropodist and it’s advisable to consult a professional to ensure that you’re wearing suitable shoes and using the best products available to help alleviate these kinds of problems.

There’s plenty you can do at home to improve the condition of your feet, however.

Firstly, invest in a foot spa. These can cost as little as $10 and provide sweet relief with settings for soothing warmth and gentle bubbles. You can always add a little essential oil to the water and enjoy the relaxing benefits of the natural aroma. Lavender and Rose Geranium will both offer relief from stress and strain and leave you feeling great.

Secondly, regularly remove dry, hard skin with the use of a pumice stone, a foot scrub and a foot file. Don’t let the problem build up and take the risk of suffering from painful, cracked heels. Whenever necessary, smother the feet in heel balm before bedtime, seal it all in with a pair of cotton socks and enjoy the results the following morning. Wearing open backed shoes is a definite No if you are prone to hard skin – opt for a comfortable pair of pumps or canvas slip ons instead.

Finally, remember to dry your feet well and use a good moisturiser on your feet after bathing or showering. There are plenty of non-greasy products on the market that offer intense moisturisation.

Today’s woman leads a busy life. Women dividing their attentions and efforts between work, home and hubby often find they’re on automatic pilot with little to no time to spend on themselves. Quick and efficient showers are the usual daily routine and a long, hot shower is often the closest we get to enjoyable bathing. Why not break the cycle once in a while and take in the health and emotional benefits of a luxuriating soak in a bath?

First of all, make sure it’s me-time. Choose a time with no distractions and set the mood. Light aromatic candles, play relaxing music or even listen to your favorite book on audio while you soak.

A bubble bath is fun and inviting. For relaxation, try a bath oil or foaming product with lavendar or go for citrus to revitalize and energize. Oatmeal is soothing for dry, flaky skin. Whatever your favorite moisturizing bath, your skin will benefit and so will your state of mind. A warm bath will relieve aching muscles and joint pains. Scrub with a loofa to increase circulation. Your skin will glow.

So pencil in some time for the relaxation and rejuvenation that the mind-body experience of a good, long soak in the tub offers. Do it because it’s good for you. Do it because you deserve it.