Espom Salt For Recovery

My next few blog posts will be about some of my favorite ways to recover.  Here is one of my favorite things to do after a workout.  I especially prefer this in the winter when I don't want to take ice baths I will do this instead. 

The Benefits Of Epsom Salt And Essential Oils

• Eases stress and relaxes the body
• When dissolved in warm water, Epsom salt is absorbed through the skin and replenishes the level of magnesium in the body. The magnesium helps to produce serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of calm and relaxation. Research shows that magnesium also increases energy and stamina by encouraging the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy packets made in the cells.
• Relieves pain and muscle cramps
• An Epsom salt bath is known to ease pain and relieve inflammation, making it beneficial in the treatment of sore muscles, bronchial asthma and migraine headaches.

What are some uses of Epsom salt?

Whether you like a relaxing soak or wish to enhance your beauty effortlessly, making Epsom salt a part of your daily routine can add a whole lot of goodness to your way of life. To experience the numerous health benefits of Epsom salt, take relaxing, stress-relieving Epsom salt baths three times weekly by adding 2 cups to a warm bath and soaking for at least 12 minutes.. Do not use soap as it will interfere with the action of the salts.

As a foot bath, pamper weary feet by adding 1/2 cup of Epsom salt to a basin of warm water. Relax and soak feet for 20 minutes. If you like, rub away any calluses using a pumice stone. Dry feet, then add two drops of peppermint essential oil to your favorite natural moisturizer, like shea or coconut butter, and rub in thoroughly to lock in the moisture. If you are pregnant or have any health concerns, check with your doctor before using Epsom salts.

Compress – for sore muscle mix Epsom salt with olive oil and use as a compress directly on the sore muscle for about 15 minutes.

EPSOM SALT USES:

Athlete’s Foot - Soak feet in an Epsom salt bath to help relieve the symptoms of Athlete’s Foot.

Treat toenail fungus - Soak your affected toes in hot water mixed with a handful of Epsom salt three times a day.

Soothe sprains and bruises - Add 2 cups Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak to reduce the pain and swelling of sprains and bruises.

Ease discomfort of Gout - Ease the discomfort of gout and reduce inflammation by adding 2-3 teaspoons of Epsom salts into a basin and immersing the affected foot/joint. The water should be as hot as it is comfortable. Soak for about 30 minutes.

Exfoliate dead skin - In the shower or bath, mix a handful of Epsom salt with a tablespoon of bath or olive oil and rub all over your wet skin to exfoliate and soften. Rinse thoroughly.

Here are some essential oils which you can add to espom salt.  I would add about a 1/2 teaspoon of the oil.  I typically add two or three different oils to my bath.

Lavender – relaxing

Peppermint and Spearmint – good for sore muscles

Eucalyptus – good for sinus problems and congestion

Lemongrass – good for ligaments and tendons

Sweet Orange – invigorating and energizing

Basil – good for ligaments and tendons and sore muscles

Grapefruit – improve skin tone

Tea Tree Oil – antifungal and antiseptic

Relax and Enjoy!

Train Hard. Have Fun. Recover Well.