Stiffness: how do you reduce muscle stiffness

Stiffness in the muscles is something we all experience.

It can come from overuse, underuse, or even from sitting in the wrong posture for too long.

But why does it happen? And what can you do about it?

Muscle stiffness usually comes from one of three reasons.

First, when you exercise or lift something heavy, your muscles form tiny tears. These tears heal and make your muscles stronger, but in the short term, they can feel tight and painful.

Second, when you sit or lie still for long hours, your muscles stop moving through their full range of motion.

Third, stress. When you're anxious, you clench your muscles, often without realising it. Think about your shoulders after a long day. You’ve done no exercise.

And yet they’re stiff. That’s the stress talking.

So what can you do?

Muscle stiffness is reversible.

Start with simple things. A walk. A short 10-minute walk can increase blood circulation and warm up stiff tissue. The next? Stretch.

Gentle, slow movement, especially in the morning can help your body regain range and comfort. Think of a cat when it wakes up. It always stretches.

Hydration is key. Muscles need fluid to stay elastic. If you’re dehydrated, your muscles will feel like rubber bands pulled too tight. Drink between 7-8 glasses of water daily.

Heat helps. A warm shower or a heating pad can relax tight spots. So can breathing. Try taking slow, deep breaths when you stretch. The slower you breathe, the more relaxed your body becomes.

Finally, magnesium. Many people are deficient. And it plays a crucial role in muscle relaxation. You can get it from leafy greens or supplements.

Don't ignore muscle stiffness.

When you let stiffness linger, it can become chronic. That’s when you start compensating by using other muscles.

Your body speaks in symptoms.

Tightness. Discomfort. A twinge. If you listen early, you can act. Move. Stretch. Breathe.

It’s how we were meant to live.

Reach out to me on twitter @rbawri Instagram @riteshbawriofficial and YouTube at www.youtube.com/breatheagain