Benefits of Epsom Salts for CrossFit Recovery
Evening guys and gals! Its Sunday, R&R ( Rest and recovery ) day! But do you know how to recover effectively for the new week of training!
Firstly let me just say, I also feel pretty beat up after a tough week! Especially the legs! So hence the need for this post to hopefully help you guys.
Active recovery : Get outside! Go for a walk, see new things, get moving, get some vitamin D! It does not mean go and run a marathon or a best effort row! It means very light exercise such as walking or maybe a gentle bike ride. Anything to get the muscles moving, loosen up and flush out any lactic acid.
Epsom Salt baths ( My favourite )
Researchers and physicians suggest these health benefits from proper magnesium and sulfate levels, as listed on the web site of the Epsom Salt Industry Council:
Improved heart and circulatory health, reducing irregular heartbeats, preventing hardening of the arteries, reducing blood clots and lowering blood pressure.
Improved ability for the body to use insulin, reducing the incidence or severity of diabetes.
Flushed toxins and heavy metals from the cells, easing muscle pain and helping the body to eliminate harmful substances.
Improved nerve function by electrolyte regulation. Also, calcium is the main conductor for electrical current in the body, and magnesium is necessary to maintain proper calcium levels in the blood.
Relieved stress. Excess adrenaline and stress are believed to drain magnesium, a natural stress reliever, from the body. Magnesium is necessary for the body to bind adequate amounts of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of well being and relaxation.
Reduced inflammation to relieve pain and muscle cramps.
Improved oxygen use.
Improved absorption of nutrients.
Improved formation of joint proteins, brain tissue and mucin proteins.
Prevention or easing of migraine headaches.
All this from a bath? While there are many different brands of Epsom salt, they are all the same product chemically, and can be found at most drug stores. Add two cups of Epsom salt and soak for at least 12 minutes.
Taken from : http://www.care2.com/greenliving/health-benefits-of-epsom-salt-baths.html
