Warming Socks (Wet Socks Therapy)
A simple, natural home remedy to boost circulation, reduce congestion, and support restful sleep.
When cold season hits, many of us reach for remedies to ease congestion, headaches, and restless nights. One of naturopathic medicine’s best-kept secrets is surprisingly simple: warming socks, also known as wet sock therapy.
This traditional hydrotherapy treatment requires nothing more than two pairs of socks and some cold water, yet its effects can be powerful. By wearing a pair of damp cotton socks under a pair of thick wool socks overnight, you stimulate circulation, support the immune system, and encourage more restful sleep.
How It Works
The body responds to the cool damp socks by increasing blood flow to the feet, which helps improve circulation throughout the body. This gentle stimulation can reduce sinus pressure, relieve headaches, and ease sore throats or ear discomfort.
Benefits
Clears nasal and sinus congestion
May relieve sore throats, headaches, or body aches
Encourages deep, restorative sleep
Supports the immune system naturally
How To Try It
Right before bed, soak a pair of thin cotton socks in cold water.
Wring them out well so they’re damp, not dripping.
Put on the damp socks, then immediately cover them with a thick, dry pair of wool socks.
Go to bed and sleep overnight.
By morning, your cotton socks will usually be dry, and you may feel clearer, lighter, and more rested.
Safety Notes
This therapy is generally safe for adults and children when supervised. However, avoid it if you have open wounds, uncontrolled diabetes, neuropathy, or poor circulation without medical guidance. Always discontinue if you feel chilled or unwell.
