When You’re Achy

Some days are harder than others to get moving in the morning as there are a myriad of variables when it comes to the state of our bodies. Amount of sleep, state of hydration, levels of stress, what we did yesterday, what we didn’t do yesterday…they all factor in. I find the seasons, the weather, even my location on the planet affects how my body feels and functions. Here’s my three-part protocol for when I’m feeling off, my joints are stiff, my muscles are tight, and need to up level: 

Step One: Get Warmer
Put on some cozy socks or a sweater, take a hot bath, apply a hot water bottle to your belly or back, drink some hot tea…some people “run hot” so for them, heating up the body is a piece of cake. It’s important to understand, when the body is at a warm (not hot) temperature, it’s calming to the psyche and that in turn “softens” the body. 
Step Two: Breathe Slower
Slower usually equates to fuller and fuller will help  get your juices flowing in mind and body. I really love this step because you can do it while you’re making your kid’s lunch and while you’re standing in your shower. just envision this – a nice long inhale followed by a nice long exhale. It’s the ultimate quick fix for better embodiment and energy! 
Step Three: Stretch Gently
Lots of people journal in the morning, but here’s a hack – how about taking your journal onto your mat? It’s a win:win “habit stack” to journal while doing some long holds of seated stretches. My three top moves to hold for up to three minutes each are: 1. butterfly pose (opens hips), 2. spine twist (energizes the core) and 3. forward fold (lightly stretches hamstrings and lower back). 

Your body need never be “stuck” in an undesirable state. It is dynamic and truly yearns to be in-flow. Very simple things like the three steps listed above can be profound. They might seem too good to be true, but underestimate them as your own peril. I think the most important aspect of empowered wellness is respecting your body and meeting it where it’s at, so let’s flow, Let’s Move!, and let’s stay in our power.