Health Synergy with Irina

9 days, 356 days to go on a plant based lifestyle.

My new found love affair with exercise has left me rather sore. For some ungodly reason I decided to wear heels to work. Getting in and out of my chair has been highly unpleasant and although a part of me is giving me a mental high five, the other is not the least impressed and would like to resume day to day activities without wincing at the slightest move. I didn’t think I would be so sore and to be honest totally forgot to take my own advice and start my sore muscle prevention regimen :).

I don’t recommend taking ibuprofen as I think in this situation is good to “stay in touch” with your body and slow down if the pain becomes to intense. I believe some natural remedies are very efficient if done consistently. Here are my top 3 ways to deal with muscle soreness after intense workouts:

1. Epsom Salt Bath

I love to add good quality essential oils such young living bergamot, lavender and geranium. Epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfate and it has been used as a health remedy since the 1500’s. It was first discovered in Epsom, England and used for its laxative properties, when ingested. There is very little research to back up all the health claims related to decrease in inflammation but from personal experience I certainly feel less sore and it helps me get a much needed restful sleep.

2. The other natural remedies that aid with recovery especially after long runs is the young living aminowise and green tea. I drink one glass of aminowise after the workout and sip on grean tea throughout the day, the equivalent of 3 cups. Green tea contains catechins, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

3. Last but not least, my favorite way to “recover” is to get a massage. In a perfect world I would get a massage every day after work but since that is not an option for us mere mortals who have to work for a living, the next best thing is foam rolling. I must worn you if you’ve never done this before, it is highly unpleasant, especially if you are already sore.

If you have any natural remedies you would like to share, please leave a comment.