I spend a lot of time researching how to live life well, it’s kind of my full time life job. Much of the research is in the form of conducting experiments in my lab, the Ritu Life Lab where the sample size is small (N=1) but offers just the right results to form impactful conclusions that will improve my personal well being. All that to say, I enjoy trying out new things – books, devices, apps, props, classes, courses, ideas, products, recipes, etcetera, etcetera. This year I’ve decided to start sharing some of my experiments and findings here on my blog and via my Weekly Wellbeing newsletter, who knows maybe you’ll be inspired to try out your own experiment. Actually, I encourage you try everything out for yourself, we are all unique individuals and what works for me may or may not work for you but at least you’ll be one step closer to finding out what does.
These product review-ish posts will be categorized under Life Lab in case you’re interested in seeing all of them, and if you follow me on instagram you can search for #lifelabhacks to see the latest and greatest experiment in action.
On to todays experiment… Flower Power
I was first introduced to Arnica as an oil 5 years ago when I severely injured my ankle and would try just about anything to heal it, since then arnica has been a staple in my self care cabinet. A couple drops massaged into my aching joint and I feel good as new, well after a few days that is, but it definitely works on healing my joints and muscles after a day of cycling, running, or simply living.
Arnica Montana, the technical or latin name for Arnica, resembles a daisy like flower and contains helenalin which is the major ingredient in anti-inflammatory preparations. It’s no wonder that this homeopathic remedy is used by athletes and every day people to soothe their sore muscles and aching joints. I’m a believer of homeopathic remedies, many have been around for centuries and work wonders when applied with patience and persistence.
A few weeks ago I was in Chicago visiting family and within 24 hours of arriving at their house I managed to slip and fall down the stairs and land smack on my tailbone, it was a pain I do not wish upon anyone. Literally a pain in the ass and a BIG reminder of how important every bone in our bodies are including the little tail remnants that you forget exist until they are bruised and remind you of their existence every single time you sit down… clearly i’m still traumatized.
I didn’t have my arnica oil, but I found the next best thing at the local market, Arnicare gel by Boiron. The gel contains Arnica and offers a slight cooling sensation when applied to the injured site. It worked miracles, I was up and walking around with less and less pain everyday.
If you’re an athlete or avid exerciser then I highly recommend adding this gel to your self care cabinet and applying as directed.
The best part is that it doesn’t smell so you don’t have to worry about repelling people while healing your body 🙂
Tailbone update: It’s been a little over a month and my tailbone pain has 70% gone when sitting, I’ve been able to get back into my yoga practice and planning to re-introduce cycling and crossfit in the next week. I’ll keep you posted on how it goes.
Happy healing!
Leave a Reply