Slowing Down for August — A Little Summer Reset

August always arrives with a different kind of energy. After my birthday at the end of July, I like to take this month to rest — to enjoy the garden, have a few days out, and move through each day at my own rhythm. Many of you are heading off on holiday too, so it feels like the perfect moment to soften the pace and look after yourself a little more.

Even though the clinic is quieter, I still want to leave you with a few simple tips to help you keep your feet and your wellbeing supported while you enjoy the sunshine.

Holiday‑Ready Feet: Top Tips for You This August

Protect your feet on the beach, by the pool and when you’re out and about

It’s surprisingly easy to get small nicks or scrapes when you’re barefoot. Hot pavements, stones, sand and pool edges can all catch you out. A tiny cut can become irritated quickly in heat, salt water or chlorine, so keep an eye on your skin.

Avoid floppy flip‑flops — here’s why

I don’t encourage flip‑flops for long walking, but I know many people wear them on holiday. The very flat, floppy ones offer almost no support. They make your toes grip, your arches work harder and your ankles wobble.

If you’re going to wear them, choose a pair with:

• a thicker sole

• a more moulded footbed

• better stability

They’re far safer for getting around, especially on uneven ground, around the pool or walking to the beach.

Avoid this common holiday mistake

Feet burn quickly — especially the tops. It’s one of the most overlooked areas when applying sunscreen. A good‑quality sunscreen on the tops of your feet can save you days of soreness.

? The best holiday drink?

In hot weather, most adults need around 1–1.5 litres more water a day than usual. Heat, walking, travelling and being outdoors all increase your fluid needs long before you feel thirsty.

If you’re enjoying more alcohol while you’re away, your hydration needs go up again. Alcohol is dehydrating, so it’s worth keeping an eye on how much plain water you’re having alongside it.

A pinch of rock salt (not table salt) helps your body absorb and use the water properly, especially when you’re sweating more. It supports your minerals and stops everything just passing straight through you.

✨ Take this one oil whenever you travel

If I were to suggest just one oil for August, it would be peppermint. It’s incredibly versatile:

• cooling and soothing on irritated skin

• settles digestion

• clears your airways

• freshens breath

• a drop in cool water makes a lovely calming foot soak

It’s one of those oils that earns its place in your holiday bag.