As the weather gets warmer, it's a great time to begin your spring cleaning and outdoor gardening. After a long, cold, winter, it feels good to get organized and get your hands a little dirty. Whether you're cleaning out closets or planting a vegetable garden, spring cleaning can be strenuous work. Although you may feel accomplished after your tasks, spring cleaning can lead to sore muscles and joints.
Repetitious and taxing exercise can trigger lactic acid to build up in your muscles, which may cause soreness and stiffness. In lieu of popping a few pain relievers, here are a few remedies you can try to combat your aches and pains.
- Stretch - Before and after spring cleaning, take some time to stretch your muscles. A warm-up will prepare your body for repetitive movement and reduce the effects of delayed onset muscle soreness.
- Hydrate - Hydration will prevent cramping and decrease inflammation after strenuous activity. Keep a water bottle handy as you work around the house or outside in your garden.
- Milkweed Balm - Made from the oil in the milkweed plant, Milkweed Balm is a natural, GMO-Free product, filled with Omega 7 fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents. Massage Milkweed Balm into sore muscles and reapply as needed.
- Cold bath - Just as athletes are encouraged to jump into an ice bath after a tough workout, it's helpful for anyone to take a cold bath to help with muscle soreness. Cold baths have been found to significantly reduce muscle soreness.
- Anti-inflammatory foods - Fruits such as pineapples and cherries contain enzymes with anti-inflammatory powers, which can reduce inflammation in the body. Be sure to fill your fridge with healthy options to snack on after a day of grueling activity.