Most doctors and health professionals tend to advocate an active lifestyle to promote good health. That’s certainly good advice, and everyone will benefit from raising their heart beat occasionally. However, we happen to think there’s a set of low impact exercises and treatments that are often overlooked. Yes, pounding the treadmill is a good way to stay healthy. But, there’s more to it than that. Sometimes, we need to slow down, and get deeper into our muscles. We need to clear our minds, and find a way to relax. This is an essential part of your health. With that in mind, we suggest making one of the following things a key part of your routine.
Yoga
Over the last decade, yoga has become one of the most popular forms of exercise. It practices muscle stretching, core strength, and clarity of mind. Together, it gives the body a complete low-impact exercise. Yet, the benefits are enormous. It’s proven to help lower your blood pressure, and lessen the impact on your heart. You’ll also learn better posture and better breathing techniques. All the while, your core strength and flexibility will grow. Try taking a class twice a week, and incorporating some of the stretches into your morning routine.
Massage
You might think that massages are just a treat for your spa weekend. In fact, they’re a medical technique designed to improve your health and wellbeing. A good massage will actively release tension in the places we hold it most. Your shoulders and neck are the biggest culprits here. We build stress and tension, and keep it locked in those muscles. Massages help squeeze out the knots, and ease your stress.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment where small needles are placed strategically into the skin. It’s not just an alternative treatment though. Scientists have proven that acupuncture stimulates the nerves under the skin. It helps release endorphins which relieve pain in certain areas of the body. Acupuncture is used for headaches, back pain, and even infertility. If you’re experiencing chronic pain, it might just help you ease the symptoms.
Osteopathy
All the treatments listed above can be generally categorised into one practice: osteopathy. An Osteopath will conduct lots of low-impact stretches and movements, avoiding any use of drugs or surgery. It is designed to use physical manipulation to stimulate the muscles, and treat the overall well being of the patient. It helps increase mobility, relieves muscle tension, and improves blood circulation. Again, this treatment is used heavily to resolve back pain and neck trouble. Patients have even reported positive results with reducing migraines and arthritis.
Occupational therapy
Lastly, it’s worth consulting an occupational therapist about the stress your body is under at work. They’ll improve your mental well being by helping you adapt to the pressures of the environment around you. It’s simple, low-impact healthcare that could make a world of difference.
These treatments are often classed as alternative therapies, and some even doubt their effectiveness. But, we dare you to go for a massage and not feel the wonderful benefits! Try it for yourself.
