You’re not alone if you wake up feeling stiff and achy in the morning. Many of us experience discomfort in our joints and muscles when we get out of bed. However, you can do some simple things to help alleviate this discomfort and start your day on the right foot. Robert Buckhannon, Las Vegas physical therapist has helped many patients overcome morning stiffness. Here are a few of his tips.
Start the Day with a Large Glass of Water
Buckhannon recommends drinking a tall glass of water right after waking up. This will help hydrate your body and lubricate your joints, reducing morning stiffness. Dehydration can cause muscle and joint soreness, so staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial, especially in the morning.
Stretch for 10 Minutes
Before you jump out of bed, take a few minutes to stretch your muscles. This will help loosen up any tightness and get your blood flowing. Bend over and touch your toes. Reach for the ceiling. Try some gentle stretches like hamstring, quad, and calf stretches. You can also try simple yoga poses like downward dog or child’s pose.
Power Down Before Bed
To ensure you feel more rested in the morning, Buckhannon says important to consider the quality of your sleep. A good way to achieve this is by switching off all electronic devices at least an hour before bed. Screens emit blue light that can interrupt your natural sleep cycle and make falling asleep harder. Instead, consider alternative activities such as reading a book, having a warm bath, or practicing techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to help you relax.
Sleep on a High-Quality Mattress
The type of mattress you sleep on can also affect how you feel in the morning. A high-quality mattress that supports your body can help reduce morning stiffness. Look for a mattress that provides a good balance between support and comfort. Everyone’s body is different, so finding a mattress that works for you is important. Many mattresses come with a 30 or even 100-night guarantee. If you aren’t sleeping well by then, return the mattress and try again.
Move More Throughout the Day
Finally, try to incorporate more movement into your day. Take frequent breaks to stand up and stretch if you work at a desk job. Go for a walk during your lunch break or after work. Movement helps to keep your joints and muscles from getting stiff and can reduce inflammation in your body.
Final Thoughts
Morning stiffness doesn’t have to be a normal part of your routine. Incorporating these simple tips from Robert Buckhannon into your daily routine can help alleviate discomfort and start your day off feeling great. Remember to hydrate, stretch, power down before bed, invest in a high-quality mattress, and move more throughout the day. Your body will thank you!
