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There are so many reasons why you may be experiencing body aches and pains. Everything from exercise, to lack of exercise, injuries and getting older may play a role. One thing is certain – no matter where it occurs in the body, pain can make everyday tasks difficult or unpleasant, and can take its toll not just physically, but also mentally.
What are some of the most common causes of body aches?
You could be experiencing pain in your muscles or joints for various reasons. If you’re an avid gym-goer or like to take part in sports, you could be experiencing muscle pain due to working out or injury.
Sitting still for long periods of time (such as working in front of a computer) or repeating a repetitive movement (like sawing or chopping wood) could lead to muscle pain, as could something as simple as lying funny on the couch or sleeping in an awkward position.
And then there are the slightly more complicated causes, like arthritis, inflammation and pinched nerves. As with any health concern, it’s always best to consult your healthcare practitioner before self-diagnosing or treating, to rule out any underlying or more serious issues.
How to treat pain naturally
If you know where your pain is originating from, there are various ways of relieving it. If you prefer to treat pain naturally, there are various things you can do that don’t have any side effects.
Hot and cold packs
If you are looking for immediate relief, this is a good option. Apply a hot compress (such as a bean bag) to the area for 20 minutes. Immediately follow with a cold ice pack for another 20 minutes.
Soak in a bath tub
One of the most common remedies for sore muscles is a warm soak in the bath tub with some salts designed to relieve pain. Try: Earthsap Mustard Bath Salt (R89.99), which draws on a centuries-old formula and natural, locally sourced ingredients to bring you a relaxing and reviving soak. Treat aching muscles and sore feet with the powerful combination of sea and epsom salts, mustard seeds, and the uplifting scent of peppermint. It’s also biodegradable, making it safe for the planet’s waterways.
Directions: Add a few scoops to a warm bath, sit back, and enjoy.
If you prefer a bubble bath, try: Earthsap Mustard Foam Bath (R94.95). This Mustard Seed Foam Bath is a relaxing natural soak that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Mustard seed is great for easing aches and pains, reducing congestion and alleviating fatigue. The Earthsap Foam Bath formula is biodegradable and contains no SLS, with no artificial dyes or fragrances.
Directions: Add a small amount to running bath water. Soak and enjoy.
Increase your movement
When you’re in pain you may be tempted to stay still, but a lack of movement may actually worsen the problem. Regular exercise will strengthen and stretch affected muscles and joints, often reducing pain.
Massage with a natural oil or rub
Massage is a great and simple way of alleviating pain. It increases blood flow to the area which aids healing, plus it goes a long way in offering instant relief. Use a natural muscle rub to enjoy additional pain relief benefits. Try: Earthsap Muscle Rub (R54.99). This rub offers gentle natural relief for sore and stiff muscles. A combination of pure beeswax and natural oils form the base of this rub, rather than the greasy petroleum jelly often used in regular rubs. Camphor, menthol and rosemary relax the muscles, while arnica loosens and heals the stiffness.
Directions: Massage into affected areas to relieve aches, pains and to loosen your muscles.
Shop Earthsap products online at Faithful to Nature and at selected heath shops nationwide.