I am always on the lookout for natural alternatives that enhance my life. As I've gotten older, I've learned a few things. Nature can make you feel better. It can soothe you. It can heal you. Many of these natural remedies are highly effective for your overall health and well-being.

 

Professional pet groomers are an active bunch. Active folks are prone to many aches and pains. I'm right there with all of you - and age is not on my side anymore!

 

Almost three years ago, one of my Friesian's accidentally stepped on my left foot. She weighs about 1300 pounds and was wearing shoes when she stepped on me. I saw stars as she stepped off my foot. The swelling and bruising started immediately. Since that time, I've had two sets of x-rays and an MRI to find out why I still do not have full flexibility through my toes. Nothing appears to be broken, yet it has never fully healed.

 

Any type of shoe with even the slightest hint of a heel is out of the question. (I've said goodbye to cute shoes!) My days of hiking and serious power walking are over. So is cross-country skiing. Almost anything that requires flexibility through my toes is out of the question. My chiropractor works on my foot, as does my kinetic massage therapist. Both have helped, but I'm still not 100%.

 

Despite my issues, I still try to get in 10,000 steps at least four times a week.

 

Recently, we headed out on a long working road trip for Learn2GroomDogs.com. We had seven Training Partners scheduled to film between Michigan and Florida. In addition, we had the Atlanta Pet Fair. My husband and I travel in a large RV with two of our Maremma Sheepdogs.

 

We were at our second stop where we were filming with my good friend, Judy Hudson. Judy and I both enjoy working hard and being extremely active. When we were done filming she suggested we take a walk down to the local park. I was all for it - except my foot was really giving me some issues. But I needed to walk. And so did the dogs. I questioned if a long stroll was doable.

 

Without missing a beat, Judy asked if I'd ever tried a combination of lavender and peppermint oils on my foot. What? Peppermint oil? Lavender oil? Combined?!

 

I haven't experimented with oils a lot, although I do know that there are many health benefits to using them. I use lavender oil all the time for relaxation. I'd never heard of the benefits of peppermint oil, let alone how to combine the two. It creates a totally different effect - pain relief.

 

I was totally game to try it. Judy ran and got her oils. I popped my bare foot up on a stool and she added a couple drops of each to the problem area. She instructed me to rub it in thoroughly. I then put on my socks and walking shoes. Off we went.

 

About 15 minutes into our walk, I started to feel the effects of the lavender and peppermint oils. Warmth. Pleasant warmth. Soothing warmth. It was melting away the discomfort.

 

We walked all the way into her homey little town. Down to the park. Totally around the park. Then back to her house. Well over 10,000 steps (or about 5 miles). The warmth was still there. The soothing effects of the oils lasted well through the walk. In fact, it lasted for HOURS after I put it on!

 

I already had a bottle of lavender oil in the RV, but no peppermint oil. I fixed that problem with our next stop. I ran right out and bought myself a bottle! We were headed to the Atlanta Pet Fair. Anyone that goes to a busy trade show knows they are tough on your feet.

 

I put a few drops of lavender and peppermint oil on my foot every morning. I had soothing, natural relief all day. Every day I logged more than 10,000 steps. My discomfort in my injured foot was minimal despite the miles I logged.

 

Maybe you have not had a horse step on your foot, but my guess is as a professional groomer/pet stylist, you have your fair share of aches and pains.

 

If you have any type of discomfort that could benefit from heat, I encourage you to try the combination of natural lavender and peppermint oils.

 

Through the years I have learned there are many remedies. I will always choose a natural treatment whenever feasible, whether it be in the form of nutrition, herbs, oils, or exercise. This one feels great, lasts for hours - and smells great!

 

Give it a try and tell us what you think. I bet you'll be as amazed as I was.

Happy Trimming!

~ Melissa