For many people, being home more lately means the opportunity to pump up your exercise regimen. Regular exercise is an essential part of staying fit and healthy. But it’s important to take good care of your body before, during and after your workout sessions, because without the right practices, you may experience inflammation.
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the body’s natural immune reaction against an injury or infection. This biological response allows our bodies to quickly identify threats, and speeds up healing and recovery processes. Common symptoms of inflammation include swelling and redness found on the localized areas of strain and injury, soreness, elevated temperatures, and pain.
Acute inflammation is caused by physical strain and is the most common form of inflammation. The condition usually lasts for a short time as the body repairs itself. Although it’s a vital function of your immune system, the physical effects of inflammation can disrupt workout routines and affect your quality of life. Implementing simple changes, such as those outlined below, can reduce the intensity and occurrence of inflammation.
Reduce Stress Levels
Needless to say, there is undoubtedly a lot of stress going around these days, but it’s important to understand that stress is known to be responsible for the onset of inflammation. Cortisol, the stress hormone, regulates inflammatory responses. Hence, extremely high stress levels may cause inflammation to go unchecked, leading to chronic symptoms.
Listen to soothing music, engage in peaceful meditation or tune out from generally stressful situations to provide your body with the right amount of cortisol activity. Managing your stress levels is another way to take good care of your body.
Reduce or Eliminate Sugar in Your Diet
Sweet stuff is synonymous with a happy childhood and honestly, sometimes you just need a piece of chocolate! Yet, too much of it can be harmful. Sugar involves proteins known as cytokines, which affect the healing process of your body. Try moderating your sugar intake to see if that helps reduce your body’s inflammatory responses.
Increase Your Water Intake
This one seems like a no-brainer but 3 out of 4 of us are dehydrated every day. Adequate fluid intake has many benefits, but one in particular is the fact that it will help flush out the pathogens that are responsible for inflammatory symptoms. Similarly, when your body lacks water, these toxins will stay longer in your bodily systems and prolong physical symptoms. So make sure you keep a water bottle handy and remember to drink from it often.
Exercise and Move, Regularly
Regular exercise is crucial in managing inflammation symptoms, and just adding more movement to your day overall can help you take care of your body. It’s important to have a dedicated fitness routine or workout schedule that you stick to so your body remains well-conditioned. Just make sure to allow your body to fully recover between each workout session.
FluidStance balance boards are a convenient addition to your daily movement routines. They encourage you to be active during otherwise sedentary situations and are perfect for when you’re working at a standing desk, talking on the phone, or even watching television.
We hope you’re taking the opportunity to focus on health and wellness during this time. Consistent, mindful workouts and an overall increase in activity will improve your physical health. And meditation, quiet time, and connecting regularly with friends and family will positively affect your mental and emotional wellbeing. Be safe out there!