I love Summer – it sits well with me. Couldn’t do it all year round because I love the seasonality of England but I love a bit of heat and the sun always makes me feel good. Pain
Summer is also a great time to get more fit and active. Even if you are a regular exerciser or just a fair weather one its probably more likely that you will be more active in the summer months and trust me I’m the latter!
Its always best to help the muscles rejuvenate (or get ready for exercise) so I always love to use a bit of arnica salve on the old joints and muscles before and after exercise. Arnica stimulates the circulation and also helps with any over exertion after exercise. It also prepares the body if you are going to undertake a lot of active sports.
As a therapist I often use a macerated arnica oil mixed with a regular base oil for sports people needing that extra boost.
Another oil I particularly love using is Chamomile oil. New research has revealed that Chamomile oil an help relief the pain of patients particularly with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Chamomile’s traditional uses are varied and broad. It is said to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties as well as reducing the perception of pain. It also soothes the digestion and is very calming on the mind.
Why not try this great muscle soak for sore and achy limbs – using wonderful aromatic and therapeutic essential oils to help repair muscle fibres and relieve pain of over exertion.
Ingredients:
Lavender Essential Oil: 2 drops
Rosemary Essential Oil: 2 drops
Black Pepper Essential Oil: 1 drop
Sea Salt: 1 tbsp
Mix the essential oils with the sea salt and use as a bath infusion. Do not use on broken skin or newly shaved skin.
The main thing to remember is just because we get a bit of sunshine not to go mad! Moderation is the key. If you have not exercised for a while leave plenty of space between each exercise session to give your body time to recover!
The most important thing is that you are moving and exercising so keep it up but also look after yourself – know your limits and remember PAIN IS YOUR FRIEND!! If it hurts then STOP!!
As a qualified aromatherapist I use essential oils in a variety of ways and LOVE using them as part of a massage but as you can see above there are plenty of ways that you can use them yourself. If you wanted to know more about Essential Oils why not download my FREE AROMATHERAPY FIRST AID GUIDE. This will give you some information on what each of the most commonly used essential oils can do. I also run regular Aromatherapy workshops where you can come along and make your own signature products to take home! Its a wonderfully fun evening. FIND OUT MORE HERE
Enjoy the sunshine while it lasts!