Ann Castro
You wake up, stretch, then work out for an hour. The next day, your body is aching all over, and walking is impossible without the subtle grunts. Over time, it becomes bearable until you decide to increase the difficulty of the workout.
Instead of going out to buy more Salonpas, why not try the following home remedies instead? They’re cheaper and more cost-efficient in the long run.
1. Magnesium-rich food
Magnesium, a nutrient required by the body to build muscle, is constantly depleted while we exercise and produce sweat. When fully consumed, muscle spasms are more likely to occur. Hence, the importance of eating magnesium-rich foods after a workout to replenish what was lost.
Nuts, fish, leafy vegetables, and avocados are readily available at various markets. Or, just simply check your pantry!
2. Epsom salt
If you’re looking for other alternatives, try bathing in Epsom salts. Some professionals claim that bathing in a cup or two in a tub of warm water helps cool the muscles down.
For those without a bathtub, why not create a scrub with your favorite oil (such as coconut oil)? Let it rest on the skin for a few minutes before washing it off, leaving you feeling soft and supple afterward.
3. Water
It does not only cure coughs, colds, and sore throats, but water also helps in muscle repair! As the body sweats, it loses water, reducing the number of electrolytes, weakening your strength and control. Once it gets enough fluids, the body is more energized in return. It also lubricates your joints, lessening the stress and tension while in motion.
4. Hot pepper rubs
Hot pepper rubs may be the solution for your sore muscles. The burn produced by hot peppers has been used by many to relieve muscle soreness. Just combine 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper with a cup of olive oil, coconut oil, or aloe vera gel. Apply it to the affected muscles.
This is definitely not for everyone, so be sure to try it on a small patch of skin before applying it further. If it feels irritated or uncomfortable, wipe it off immediately.
Here is a recipe from Nature’s Nurture if you want to try it for yourself.
5. Massages
We all can agree that a good massage is great after a workout. It soothes the muscles because it reduces stiffness and breaks up the scar tissue that accumulates during an intense session. Whether done by yourself, a trustworthy companion, or a professional, it still works wonders.
While there are plenty of resources on the web, click here for a short tutorial on how to relieve shoulder blade pains.
6. Rest
Whether it be sleep or taking it easy for a day or two, consider it as rest. After all, the body needs time to repair and replenish what was lost or damaged to function smoothly again. Opting to schedule rest days between workouts is one strategy to reduce muscle soreness. Though, it is best to consider other options to understand what best works for you.
Others suggest stretching and exercising lightly between intense sessions to fluidly transition between one workout to the next. This is because the muscles are still “on a high” even after abruptly stopping after a period of rigorous movement. It needs supplementary actions that help release excess energy without stressing it further.
