Get Proper Sleep
Did you know that lack of sleep can contribute to back and neck pain? And, it can also worsen the existing pain. When you receive plenty of restorative sleep, the body heals.
Tip: Use a high-quality mattress, as old, sagging mattress without support is often the cause of back pain and injury.
Aromatherapy
Pain causes us to tense the body, which creates anxiety and stress. Both issues can aggravate the pain and make it feel worse than it actually is. By keeping stress levels low with the help of aromatherapy, we can reduce the reaction to pain receptors.
Some of the best anti-inflammatory oils to use include green apple essential oil, lavender essential oil, chamomile essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil, rosemary essential oil, thyme essential oil, sandalwood essential oil, juniper essential oil, and wintergreen essential oil.
Alternating Hot and Cold Therapy
Heat relaxes the muscles, improves blood flow, and it reduces spasms. On the other hand, ice reduces swelling and inflammation. Ice can also numb the pain.
For heat sources, you can use a heating pad, a hot water bottle, or a shower/bath. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor prior to taking a hot bath. As for ice, you can use a conventional ice-pack, or a bag filled with ice.
DIY Muscle Rub
Making your own, all-natural muscle rub provides plenty of benefits. It has a long shelf-life and it can be used on many body parts. Here is the basic recipe:
You will need:
- Heatproof glass container
- ¼ c beeswax or candelilla wax (or favorite vegan alternative), grated
- ½ c organic coconut oil
- 2 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp. ginger powder
- 15 drops chamomile essential oil
- 15 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Pour 2 inches of water in a pan and place over a medium heat
- Mix the wax, oil, and herbs in a heatproof container and submerge it in the water
- Mix well until the ingredients melt
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool
- Add the essential oils
- Pour into small containers and let cool completely
