We move a hundred different ways each day. We bend, stretch, reach, squat, duck, and twist. While we drive, walk, talk, and even while we sleep, we shift positions to make ourselves more comfortable. We move constantly, mostly without thinking.
For fluid movement to occur, our joints need to be healthy. For many of us, however, pain, stiffness, and inflammation get in the way. That’s why it’s so important to take care of our joints and protect them. Here are some helpful tips.
Improve Digestion
Having healthy joints can be correlated, in large part, to having healthy tissue. The tissues that connect our joints must be resilient to support joints and bones. How well we absorb nutrients plays a key role in this relationship, and how well we digest food is a primary factor. If we are eating a healthy yoga diet but our digestion is compromised, then our tissues probably aren’t getting the nutrition they need. See Good Digestion – The Key to Health for some simple ways to improve your digestion.
Detox
When toxins build up in your body, joint movement can become painful. A simple detox can help improve digestion, restore and improve circulation, and clear impurities from tissues that can cause joint pain.
Massage and Move the Joints
Find an oil that is soothing to your joints. For some, especially those with dry, cracking joints, sesame oil is a good choice. For others, a lighter oil such as coconut, does the trick. Whichever oil you choose, try it a few times and make sure that it doesn’t agitate the joint further. If it does, switch until you are satisfied. Massage enough oil to cover the joint. Be gentle and allow yourself plenty of time so you don’t need to rush. Once you’ve massaged oil into the joint, do several rotations with the joint. Shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, fingers, hips, knees, ankles, and toes can all experience relief through movement, specifically rotation.
