Walking on salt before bed gets attention, but no firm proof it eases fatigue or aids sleep

After a day of housework, office rush or travel, the body tires. Aching feet, muscle tension and trouble sleeping at night are common complaints, and people try different remedies for them. One simple home remedy that needs no expensive equipment is currently being discussed: moving the feet over salt for a while.

The practice is being discussed in the wellness space. It is claimed that moving the feet over salt for about 10 minutes before going to bed can bring relief. It is also said that proper care is needed when trying it.

In this method, a clean, dry cloth is first taken and a thick layer of salt is spread on it. Epsom salt is advised for this. The feet are then washed clean and dried completely.

The feet are then placed slowly on the salt and moved gently, without putting too much pressure on them. If the salt crystals prick or the friction irritates the skin, one should stop at once and not force oneself to complete the 10 minutes. After the exercise, the feet are washed clean and dried again. It is also noted that walking barefoot on salt will not benefit everyone equally.

Standing, walking or travelling constantly through the day can strain the muscles of the feet. At such times, it is important to give the feet some rest. Soaking the feet in lukewarm water, a gentle massage, or resting for a while with the feet raised gives some people relief.

The friction from moving the feet over salt may help remove dead skin cells. However, salt is not necessary for that. Too much friction can dry the skin or cause a wound.

Epsom salt contains magnesium sulphate. Claims are therefore made that using it relaxes the muscles, reduces tension and improves sleep. However, there is no solid scientific evidence that merely placing the feet on salt raises the body's magnesium or cures sleep problems.

Sitting quietly for a while before bed, relaxing the feet and cutting down on mobile phone use can help improve sleep habits. It is therefore said that giving the body enough rest matters more than moving the feet over salt.

People with diabetes, especially those with reduced sensation in the feet or circulation problems, are advised to avoid walking barefoot on salt. The experiment should also not be tried when there is a wound, cracks, infection or skin irritation on the foot, as salt crystals could injure the skin.

Those who have persistent foot pain, swelling or irregular sleep at night are also advised to consult a doctor to understand the cause. In short, the feet need rest after a day's rush, but it cannot be said with certainty that moving the feet over salt for 10 minutes removes fatigue or cures insomnia. The advice is to give priority to proper rest, regular sleep and foot care.