Give your legs a lift

When you reach the end of a hard day, do your legs feel like lumps of lead? Sluggish circulation is the major culprit - that's why anyone who has had to endure a long-haul flight is only too familiar with that heavy leg feeling. If you want to put the spring back in your step, follow this simple guide:

KICK START YOUR DAY

Regular exercise is a great way to get the circulation going and encourage the flow of blood back to the heart. Activities which bring your legs to life include swimming (Princess Diana keeps her lovely legs lean with 20 lengths daily) as well as cycling and brisk walking.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Leading nutritionist Barbara Wren says shortages of magnesium, B6 and lecithin can all result in aching legs. She also suggests that sufferers should drink plenty of water and reduce their intake of salt, alcohol, coffee, and cigarettes (if you would like a FREE diet diagnosis, call the Nutrition Helpline on: 01684 312004 quoting Sunday Mirror reader offer).

DON'T JUST SIT THERE

If you spend all day sitting behind a desk, make sure you get up and walk around at regular intervals. Try some of these simple exercises to keep things moving:

1 Foot circling Sit in an upright position, with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Circle your feet 10 times in one direction, then 10 times in the other direction.

2 Foot bending Staying in the same position, point your toes up towards your nose and hold them there for a few seconds. Then point them downwards and hold that position for a few seconds. Repeat at least 10 times.

If you stand for long periods shift your weight from one foot to another. Try marching on the spot to relieve the pressure.

A PAMPERING PEDICURE

1 Massage cuticle remover into the nails. (try Nailoid Results cuticle remover, pounds 3.49 from Boots). Add a few capfuls of Boots soothing foot bath to a bowl of warm water and soak both feet for a few minutes.

2 Using a pumice stone, gently file away hard skin. But don't attempt to remove excessive hard skin in one treatment.

3 Dry both feet thoroughly. Cut toenails straight across, then using the rough side of an emery board, file the nails straight across in one direction. Don't round the nails at the corner as this may cause ingrowing toenails.

4 Wind a tissue backwards and forwards between your toes to keep them apart. Then paint the nails in your favourite colour. Remember that it's best to use a base coat to avoid staining and a top coat to help keep the polish intact and glossy.

5 For a silky smooth feeling, finish off by massaging your legs and feet with Boots peppermint foot lotion.

SIMPLE

SOLUTI0NS

Reflexology: it stimulates the body's energy channels, clearing blockages, increasing circulation and bringing deep muscle relaxation. For a list of qualified practitioners send a S.A.E. to: the Association of Reflexologists, 27 Old Gloucester Street London WC1N 3XX).

Leg Lifts: spend 10 minutes lying flat with feet raised on a cushion.

Herbal help: a potent mixture of Chinese herbs called "Pure Ascent" contains a galaxy of goodies to get your circulation going. It will also help to combat fluid retention and that heavy sluggish feeling. To order a supply of Pure Ascent telephone the Good Health Clinic Nutrition Shop on 0171 221 2266. 120 tablets cost pounds 8.50 including P&P.

STAR TREATMENT

Liz Hurley and Prince Charles are both big fans of Reflexology.

Tina Turner, whose legs were voted the best in show business, keeps them in great condition with regular massages.

IMPORTANT: If heavy leg syndrome is a persistent problem it may indicate the onset of varicose veins - seeking early medical advice will reduce the risk of further complications.

Copyright 1997 MGN LTD
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