Between teaching classes and my personal workouts, some part of my body is always sore. Weekly massages have worked wonders in reducing my muscle soreness and recovery time and have significantly relieved the tightness in my lower back. My lower back muscles are naturally tight, so I got my doctor to write me a prescription for weekly massages so I can use my FSA (flex spending account) through my health insurance to pay for my massages. If you’re not familiar with FSA, it allows you to pay for out of pocket medical expenses with pre-tax dollars. Check with your HR Benefits rep to see if you’re eligible for an FSA account. It’s a great way to save money by reducing your taxable income.
~ Coach MaShelle
Which is Better…Massage or Rest?
Book a rubdown. It’s good for our muscles and may reduce soreness, says Mark Tarnopolsky, MD, director of the neuromuscular and neurometabolic clinic at McMaster University Medical Center. “Muscles contain pressure sensors that respond to stimulation. A session as short as 10 minutes can decrease inflammation and rev up the growth of mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells,” he explains.
The pressure won’t do damage (it’s a myth that massaging sore muscles can cause internal bleeding), but it may feel slightly uncomfortable, especially at first. Make an appointment with a pro for the day after a big race. If you’re really tender, request “gentle pressure” to relieve pain and speed recovery. To rebound after your regular workouts, invest in a foam roller, which Dr. Tarnopolsky says can mimic the beneficial effects of massage. (article from Self magazine)
The next time you’ve got a big job interview or a special date you’re nervous about, and all everyone keeps saying is “just breathe,” double down on stress relief by using your breath and your body to give you the extra boost you need. Confidence is all about keeping your cool when you’re under pressure and yoga pose—in addition to improving your flexibility and balance — help you do that by teaching you to relax into a pose and use your breath when holding them becomes difficult.
Here are 9 yoga poses to improve your confidence, each with a role model to inspire you.
Mountain Pose
Inspiration: Mount Rainier. On a clear day in in Seattle, everyone stops to take in the splendor of snow-capped Mount Rainier standing tall and proud on the horizon.
How to: Stand with your feet together and your legs straight. Rotate your thighs inward and draw up through your legs, core, and spine to the top of your head. Place your hands at your sides, palms facing forward and fingers active. It may look simple but this pose helps keep you calm and is said to help clear your nervous system. The best part is that you can do it pretty much anywhere.
The Fit & Fabulous Coach
I’m MaShelle, your Fit & Fabulous Coach! I’m an AFAA Certified Fitness Instructor and lifestyle blogger living in Atlanta. This blog is where you can come for fitness inspiration and my workout proof hair tutorials. Sign up for my newsletter so you never miss my tips for living a #fitandfabulous life! Click to read my bio.
My weight loss transformation story isn’t tragic and it won’t make you cry. One day, I just got fed up with being overweight and decided to do something about it! Learn how it all got started for me.
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