Tackling Arthritis and Welcoming Spring
Hello Friend,
It's March, and while the calendar whispers promises of spring, our bodies still navigate the tail end of winter's chill.
This edition of The Mindful Memo is your personal toolkit for embracing this transition with grace, humor, and a
little bit of science. Let's get into the world of wellness together, shall we?
Joint Ventures: The Cold Hard Truth
Arthritis isn't just a tale from your grandparents' era; it's a reality for many of us, especially as we embrace the splendid 35+ chapter of our lives. With the chill still in the air, our focus this month zeros in on understanding the icy grip of arthritis - the mechanical type and its sneaky cousin, inflammatory arthritis.
Mechanical Arthritis: Picture this - the cold weather rolls in, and your body decides to mimic the season by making everything just a tad bit stiffer. Those creaks and groans aren't your floorboards complaining, but perhaps your joints mirroring the rigidity of the icy outdoors.
Inflammatory Arthritis: Then there's the type that sticks around like an unwanted guest, chronic and persistent, making itself known through inflammation and pain that's not just reserved for winter's embrace.
Before you ask, "Am I too young for arthritis?" know that it's all about staying ahead. Factors like air quality, heat, and regular mobilization can be pivotal in managing arthritis. That's what affects me when managing my flares of inflammatory arthritis.
Remember, it's not just about the barometric pressure; it's about how we respond to it.
Calf-tastic Voyages: Your Route to Relief
Why focus on the calf, you ask?
The term "second heart" is often used metaphorically to refer to the calf muscles because of their role in aiding blood circulation, particularly venous return, back to the heart. While the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body, the calf muscles which connect to the knee, when engaged, help facilitate the return of blood from the lower extremities to the heart against the force of gravity
With the simple magic of a calf board , you can give your calves the stretch they deserve while unlocking a cascade of benefits. This isn't just about flexibility; it's about stretching the stride length of the entire muscle. Addressing the root cause of knee pain and setting the stage for stronger, happier knees.
In Chinese medicine, it's considered a powerhouse for blood circulation, akin to a second heart. So, when addressing pain and discomfort, let's start from the ground up. Your calves (and knees) will thank you.
The Move: "The Hot & Cold Shuffle"
This week, we're getting spicy (and a bit chilly) with a simple yet transformative approach: combining heat and cold therapy. Imagine the bliss of a sauna session followed by the invigorating shock of a cold plunge. It's not just a wellness trend; it's a science-backed method to kick those residual winter woes to the curb and prep your body for spring.
A sauna session, especially an infrared one, is your MVP this season. It's like a warm hug for your muscles, with the bonus of sweating out toxins. Pair it with a cold plunge for an exhilarating contrast that boosts circulation and invigorates your spirit. Frequency? Let your body be the judge, but more times than less times a week could be the golden ticket.
My favorite NYC Spots:
“Knee-Deep in Success”
I've had the privilege of guiding two amazing clients away from the operating table, helping them cancel planned meniscus surgeries through the power of manual manipulation and targeted strength training with the calf muscles as our main focus. It's a testament to the incredible potential of alternative medicine and the strength of our bodies to heal with the proper support.
As we bid farewell to the cold and welcome the whispers of spring, remember that wellness is a personal journey filled with laughter, learning, and much self-love. Whether dipping your toes into cold plunge pools or warming up in a sauna, the goal is to find joy in the journey and strength in the struggle.
Until next time, keep stretching, smiling, and savoring every moment. Your wellness adventure is just beginning, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it.
In love & alignment,
Maddie
