Practice Self-Care for Pain Prevention
By Brandi Goodman
Self-care is often proclaimed as a mental health necessity. Although that's true, you can also use self-care as a method of pain prevention. Many of the activities you try to boost your mental well-being can also help you avoid discomfort in your daily life.
Sleep With Your Spine in Mind
Sleep is necessary for your mental health. Sleeping carefully with your spine in mind can help with that and pain. If you tend to wake up with aches, then your sleeping position may need to be altered. It's wise to sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees, or on your back with one underneath your legs. This will help keep your spine aligned better and prevent such serious aches in the morning. Sleeping on your stomach is not recommended.
Snack on Nutritious Foods
Your body can feel bloated and achy after eating certain foods. Some items cause inflammation within the body and can make your joints feel stiff and uncomfortable. You need to snack on nutritious foods instead that help to boost your mood and ease your pain. Leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, and fruits can often help to fight inflammation.
Choose Your Favorite Method of Relaxation
When you're feeling tense -- both mentally or physically -- it's best to find a way to relax. Choose your favorite method of relaxation when you're feeling sore and do what you can to ease your pain. Lay down for a while and read a book. Take a warm bath. Give yoga a try. Take a walk. All of these options may work to ease the discomfort you're feeling and help you recharge to make it through the remainder of the day.
Exercise!
Exercise releases endorphins that can boost mood, which is why it's often touted as a great self-care option. It can also help prevent or reduce pain. You're working to strengthen your body and improve joint stability, making it less likely that you'll experience soreness and stiffness in that area. It may not eliminate your discomfort immediately, but it can help prevent it from bothering you in the future. Stretching can help as well.
Self-care should always be a priority. When you're taking good care of yourself, you should see a positive improvement in both your mental and physical well-being. Ease your pain, prevent future discomfort, and get your mind right at the same time with these self-care methods.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Portland, Ore.