Whether your back is killing you after raking in the yard all day, or your biceps ache after a intense session with your personal trainer, soreness is a very real problem—and one you’re probably dying to find a solution for! No matter where your soreness may lie—in the back, shoulders, biceps, glutes or legs—we’ve got the answer…three of them to be exact!
Hydrate Your Aching Body
Your body requires lots of hydration throughout your average, run-of-the-mill day, but even more so when you’re dealing with the aches of a body you just worked out to the limit. When it comes to easing the soreness, nothing is more important than hydration!
Shoot for 6-8 glasses of water a day (as recommended for a non-achy body) and be extra mindful of other liquids you usually consume, such as sugary juices, coffee or alcoholic drinks. For the next few days, try to eliminate those as much as possible, as you don’t want to consume anything that will hydrate you further.
Pack in the Protein
After your muscles have gone through a rigorous workout (lifting boxes in your garage or lifting weights at the gym), it’s starving for nourishment. One of the most successful things you can do to ease your soreness is fuel up on protein throughout your day. Make an omelet for breakfast with cheese, tomatoes and spinach, or blend up a smoothie loaded with greek yogurt (a great source of protein and higher that other yogurt).
For lunch, make a kale and quinoa salad topped with shrimp or chicken. Keep the protein coming at dinner time by feasting on a light, grilled piece of cod (cooked in olive oil, lemon juice, fresh tarragon) and asparagus. You’ll be feeling like your old self in no time at all.
Soak It Up
Taking a relaxing bubble bath isn’t just a great way to alleviate soreness—it’s a perfect relaxation routine for any night of the week. But, when it comes to sore muscles, a relaxing hot bath can always make a difference, relaxing the muscles that are sore and also helping you prepare for a solid night’s sleep.
Besides generous hydration, eating plenty of protein and soaking away your soreness, it’s important to move as much as possible. Take a slow walk around your neighborhood and try to refrain from too much sitting, if possible. Remember, your body is your temple…so treat it kindly, respectfully and mindfully!
