SHOULD YOU SKIP YOUR WORKOUT IF YOU DON’T FEEL WELL? WHY SOME EXERCISE IS BENEFICIAL WHEN YOU’RE SICK
Getting sick is terrible, especially if you’re trying to stick to a consistent workout routine. You may think sickness means more rest days — but in fact, depending on your symptoms, continuing to exercise could be a good thing. While it may seem like common sense to avoid exerting yourself too much when you’re feeling under the weather, the effects of exercising while you’re sick are a bit more nuanced than you think. If you’re sick and trying to decide if you should try to get a workout in, assess where you feel your symptoms. Are they only above the neck? Or are they above and below the neck? Symptoms of a head cold, such as a runny nose, a mildly sore throat, and some congestion, shouldn’t keep you from exercising. At the very worst, you might just have to cut back the intensity of your workout. If you usually go for a run, try decreasing the time of your run or going for a walk instead. There’s actually evidence that exercise can help alleviate symptoms located above the neck when you’re sick. For instance, walking and jogging can help clear up congested
nasal passages. Many runners will attest to the fact that their workout actually helps them feel better when they’re sick. There’s also evidence that yoga can boost your immune system and ease aches
related to sinus issues. Saying “om” might even help too, as one study found humming could actually aid in opening clogged sinuses.
If you have a fever or any type of stomach problem, however, you should skip your workout altogether. And if your workouts seem to exacerbate your sickness, take a break until the sickness subsides. That said, it’s nice to know that it takes more than a little case of the sniffles to throw off your workout routine!
NEED A LAST MINUTE GIFT? TIPS FOR AN AMAZING BACK MASSAGE
Sometimes, the best gift someone can give is a great back massage. Now that Mother’s Day is approaching, it might be a perfect time to give that gift to that special woman in your life! Or, maybe there’s someone else who deserves a bit more appreciation this May, even if they don’t have their own holiday. Here are some tips for your next back massage. First, you’ll want to find a comfortable spot. Would they prefer laying down? Sitting up? Make sure you have enough space to reach their lower back, where a lot of tension can sit. Check their skin for any sores or redness before starting any massage. If they say their arms or legs are starting to feel numb, stop massaging that area. If you plan to use a lotion during your massage, stop using it if it causes rash or itching. When starting the massage, begin at the bottom of the lower back and move your hands slowly to help them relax. You should stay conscious of
your body movement; this will protect your own muscles in your back, shoulders, and arms. As you work upward on both sides of their spine, go all the way upward to their shoulders. When you’re making circular motions, be sure to move your hands upward, and apply more pressure with your thumbs. When you reach the top of their spin, move across shoulders and start moving down the upper arms. When moving downward, try to apply less pressure. You should ask whether you’re using too much or too little pressure, or if they feel any pain. Don’t massage painful areas, or just touch very lightly. If you’re not sure what to do with your hands on the back, percussive strokes (like patting a drum) and fanning techniques (pressing your thumbs outward, one at a time) are simple and effective methods. We hope you and your loved ones have a lovely May!
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