3 Natural Ways to Heal Sore Muscles TRICKS TO KEEP YOU MOVING WHILE YOU RECOVER Essential Oil Rubs
Moving every day is essential to our overall health — it cleans out the cobwebs of the soul and heals us from the inside out. However, sometimes when we push ourselves a bit harder than usual or try new exercises, movement can come with a cost: sore muscles. Sore muscles can be a sign you’ve overdone it, but more often, they’re just a natural part of an active lifestyle. If your muscles are sore, that means you’re using them. Still, no one enjoys the pain and discomfort sore muscles bring, and they can sap your energy, making it hard to stay motivated and keep up your daily healing movements. If you’re struggling with sore muscles, try one of these three natural ways to speed up the healing process. Epsom Salts Baths Baths are one of Danette’s favorite self-care strategies. Sinking into a tub of hot water is great for relaxation, but you can take your bath up a notch by adding Epsom salts. INSP IRAT ION 8
According to multiple studies, certain types of essential oils can reduce inflammation and encourage blood flow. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Lipid Research, for example, found that thyme, clove, rose, eucalyptus, fennel, and bergamot oils had anti-inflammatory properties. Try massaging diluted versions of these oils directly onto sore areas or diffusing them in your home. Anti-Inflammatory Foods Food is nature’s medicine, and it can help sore muscles heal! When you’re sore, incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like apple cider vinegar, ginger, turmeric, and garlic into your meals to ease your pain. Last but not least, remember not to become a couch potato just because you’re sore. Be gentle with yourself but keep moving. Try doing yoga, taking a long walk, or having a stretch to keep your body warm.
According to Dr. Naoki Umeda of Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Integrative Medicine, in just 15 minutes, the magnesium and other beneficial ingredients in Epsom salts will stabilize your mood, relax your muscles, and relieve pain and inflammation.
Danette May’s Lotus Journal
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