Muscle Therapy

Your muscles work hard sustaining your daily grind, from the smallest located in your ear canal to the largest gracing your derriere. It’s no surprise that these masters of might tie themselves up in tension, bearing the weight of physical forces and collecting the fallout of mental stress. Release pressure with these tips for pampering your brawn…

Knead: Massage works out hostile fibers that keep you kinked and knotted. By increasing blood flow it can also stimulate healing, reduce pain, and deliver key nutrients while banishing built-up toxins. See a licensed massage therapist who agrees to use your pressure tolerance.

Nourish: Certain nutrients — protein, selenium, flavonoids, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B and C — help aid restoration in fatigued muscles. Try quinoa, a South American grain that contains a complete helping of essential amino acids, or lentils, which pack protein and vitamin B into every bite. Snag your selenium in the form of mushrooms, fish, or supplements, and enjoy mangoes as a refreshing source of magnesium, antioxidants, and potassium. Don’t forget to drink water, especially before and after exercise, to reduce cramping.

Mend: A cold compress can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation in pulled muscles. Apply ice the first 24 hours after injury. After that, hot and cold contrast can manage pain while supporting recovery. To help loosen stiff, achy muscles, take a hot bath/shower or go for a hot tub dip.