One thing we all have experienced is pain. Let's look at the types: muscular, neurologic (that's nerve pain), bone, and inflammation-based. Sometimes it's one, sometimes a combination of all. And trauma isn't only physical — emotional stress and heartache can weigh on a body every bit as heavily as an injury. If you're hurting either way, that's real, and it deserves real care.

Many times we disregard the necessity of hydration. We are fluid creatures, friends — you're mostly water. Without enough fluid, your systems simply can't transport nutrients or keep everything moving the way they should. Here's my simple check: lay your hand flat and give the skin on the back a gentle pinch. If it tents up and is slow to settle, your body is asking for more water. And many an everyday headache is simply thirst in disguise — so before anything else, drink your water.

When you've overdone it, the old standbys are old for a reason: a cold pack early on to calm a fresh strain, warmth later to relax tight muscles, gentle massage to encourage blood flow, elevation for a puffy ankle, and honest rest. When you're ready, gentle movement helps everything along. And from the kitchen: turmeric and ginger have been treasured in traditional practice for generations — lovely in teas and cooking, and a warm part of many folks' daily routine.

Now let me say this plainly, friend to friend: pain that is severe, brand-new and alarming, or just won't let up is your body asking for a professional's eyes. Please see your doctor — and always work with your doctor on anything you're taking, including over-the-counter pain relievers. I'm here for the plant-based side, and it works alongside your doctor's care, never in place of it.

The better we understand our pain — where it comes from, what eases it, and what it's telling us — the better we can care for ourselves day to day. Look through the rest of our blogs for more, and if you have questions, I'd love to hear from you.
Connie Jacoby, Naturopathic Health Consultant