How to Effectively Relieve Tension after a Workout

author : EileenOShanassy
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Workout recovery tactics

Working out will not only keep you in shape and at your ideal weight, it will also prevent pain and build up strength. While working out will make you feel good in the end, you may experience some acute muscle tension directly after your workout routine. To help get your muscles relaxed and alleviate the tension built up from the workout, try the following post-workout routines.


Stretching


Stretching is not only important to the beginning of a workout, but after as well. Properly stretching out the muscles you have exercised will help with flexibility and reduce cramping. Stretching will also help relax taut muscles and get them back to pre-workout looseness. Make sure you hold stretching poses for at least 15 seconds before moving on.


Massage


Massage is not only a great way to release tension after a workout, but also helps to prevent injury and muscle problems. Many gyms offer sports massage as part of their services. Even a few minutes of rub down addressing the muscles worked on during your routine will help to relax them. You can do this right after your shower while your body’s still warm.


Sauna or Steam Room


Steam is an amazing way to relax your body as well as your mind. The heat and steam from the room will naturally stimulate your muscles to become loose and return to a relaxed state. Be sure to leave the room if your find yourself getting lightheaded or dizzy and drink plenty of water.


Progressive Muscle Relaxation


Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique used to relieve tension, relax the muscles, and quiet the mind, returning the body to an overall state of fluidity and calmness. To perform the routine, you will need to tighten and release each muscle in the body, holding it for 30 seconds and then release. It is easiest to start with the muscles in the hand and move along the body until each muscle has been addressed. These contractions should be done two to three times per muscle.


Essential Oils


Essential oils are a great, natural way to help tight muscles that may occur after an intense workout. Essential oils can be taken internally or rubbed on the affected area.When used topically, they can be used alone or in combination with other scents to reduce tension and relax muscles. Some essential oils that are most effective at reducing tension after a workout include: lavender, rosemary, black pepper, ginger, and eucalyptus. Relieving stress and tension following a workout is essential to helping muscles that have become overly taut. To help relieve your post-workout tension, try the five tips above.




Eileen O'Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check out her Twitter @eileenoshanassy. Check out doTERRA products and essential oils to see how they can help your overall health as well.

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date: April 30, 2017

EileenOShanassy