Ebooks doTERRA eBook Essential Oils and Fitness | Page 12

Recovery

Recovery

While you might have your own routine for recovering from a workout , or a specific cool down routine that you like to follow , there are a few things that will help your body at the end of a workout so that you can prepare to rest and exercise again the next day . The important elements of recovery include proper cool down and stretching , re-hydrating the body , soothing tight or sore areas , and , if necessary , massage .
Cool down
Just as a warm up is crucial , taking time for a cool down is a key element to a successful workout . Allowing your body to slow down gradually , while continuing movement of the muscles can help you avoid tightness or stiffness . What you decide to do for your cool down routine will depend on what kind of workout you ’ ve done , and your personal abilities or needs . Nevertheless , a cool down is important , as it will help you to gradually slow your breathing and heart rate as you prepare for rest .
Similar to a pre-workout warm up , essential oils can be useful during the cool down that takes place post-workout . Try using essential oils with cooling properties to help calm the body and soothe the affected areas after exertion . By applying these types of oils topically , you can provide the limbs with a cooling sensation that offers soothing comfort to the muscles and extremities .
You can also diffuse essential oils during your cool down or post-workout stretching session to help the body and mind calm down . Diffusing essential oils with a calming or soothing aroma will help you relax and prepare for rest .
Hydration
Once you ’ ve finished your workout , you ’ ll want to restore the water that your body lost through sweating . Again , adding essential oils to your water will give it a little extra flavor , which can be helpful if you have trouble drinking water instead of sugary drinks . Adding essential oils to your water will also allow you to reap any internal benefits of that particular oil . For example , some essential oils provide antioxidant support when taken internally , while other oils can be taken internally to promote healthy digestion or support healthy cardiovascular system function .* By adding essential oils to your water , you can experience any internal benefits that the oils have to offer .
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration . This product is not intended to diagnose , treat , cure , or prevent any disease .