Exercising is good for the body, but oftentimes it can bring pain afterward. Reaching for the ibuprofen or prescription drugs seems like the best choice, but you can also opt for a more healthy and natural approach.
Here are some healthy ways to relieve muscle pain after a workout.
1You can massage or a massage therapist can gently massage your muscle soreness with an organic plant oil to which essential oils with analgesic or anti-inflammatory qualities have been added, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, ginger root, rosemary, lavender and nutmeg. Mix 8 to 12 drops of your preferred oils into one ounce of organic plant oil and massage the specific areas.
2Drink water or a low-sugar drink directly after your workout. Hydrating yourself every 20 minutes during the workout and before you begin is also helpful. Keeping your fluid level at a healthy balance can keep your muscles from becoming overly stressed.
3Apply an ice pack to the aching muscle. Ice or frozen peas placed in the affected area for 20 minutes at a time may be useful during the first two hours after a workout. Use the ice treatment three times a day. Massaging the ice into the muscle in a circular motion could increase healing benefits.
4Make sure your regimen includes the three requirements for a well-balanced fitness approach: cardiovascular, weight-bearing (strength) and flexibility activities.
5If possible, elevate the body part that is aching. For example if your pain is in the calves or arms, prop up the area with a pillow.
6Use heat therapy after the first 48 hours of ice treatments. Or soak in a warm tub of water with 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salts for at least 20 minutes. The salts provide muscle enhancement and pain or cramp-reducing magnesium.
7Drink low-fat chocolate or plain milk after a workout. Also eat whole foods like nuts, chicken, fish and eggs. These foods are rich in phosphorus, which eases post-workout muscle aches.
8Be fully present in the activity you’re participating in. The more relaxed you are while moving the more positive the experience. When you are tense you tighten the muscles, which can cause strains or tissue tears.
9Throughout the day apply moderate, sustained pressure to the web area between the index finger and thumb. This alleviates pain and fatigue.
10Give yourself accurate amounts of time between exercising or training to prevent assaults on the body. Many injuries are due to repetitive stress on a particular muscle.
Sources include: Livestrong.com and Organic Spa Magazine
