DIY - Warming Socks for a Head Cold

Naturopathic hydrotherapy uses the therapeutic properties of water to stimulate the

body’s own healing mechanisms. It does this through increasing blood circulation

and stimulating natural immune response. A particular naturopathic hydrotherapy

technique is the use of ‘warming socks’ to relieve symptoms of congestion in the

head and sinuses experienced during a common head cold.

The warming sock technique

This technique can easily be done at home and is best to do overnight.

Create your own naturopathic warming socks by first soaking a pair of cotton socks

in cold water, then wring them out thoroughly and put them on. Next, put on some

warm, dry wool socks over the top of the wet socks. The layers of wet and dry socks

create a thermal exchange in the body that redirects blood flow and heat away from

the head and towards the feet, encouraging the blood vessels to widen and

enhancing circulation throughout the body. Wear your warming socks overnight, in

the morning the socks will be dry. The warming socks are also beneficial for alleviating

sinus headache and promoting relaxation conducive to a better night’s sleep.

If you’d like discuss other ways to support natural immune defences during winter

and strengthen recovery from illness, book a consultation with Michelle. She is in

clinic on Wednesdays and Thursdays at Beattie Street Health.