Morning stiffness is an issue for many people, but those of us with fibromyalgia find it even more problematic. Depending on the position you sleep in or the quality of your sleep, you may be more or less stiff on any given day.
According to the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association there are a lot of things you can do to alleviate morning stiffness.
1. Start writing
One suggestion is to write down your concerns, issues, to-do list, etc., at night so they don’t keep you awake. Tossing and turning over issues you’re wrestling with will wreak havoc on your sleep quality.
2. Bundle up
Keeping warm is essential in helping prevent stiffness. Having enough blankets, using a space heater and covering your windows should provide you with a warm and comfortable sleep environment.
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3. Take a hot shower
Standing under the hot water of a shower helps to not only relax those stiff muscles, but will also get your blood circulating. It’s a relaxing way to wake up in the morning. After you’ve warmed up from the shower you can try some deep knee bends while holding on to a chair or counter for balance.
4. Watch your diet
Eat healthy foods that contain few ingredients. Avoid toxic ingredients like artificial sweeteners, food coloring, high fructose corn syrup, and simple carbs like white flour and white sugar.
5. Drink clean
Drink clean water, either filtered or bottled. You may not be aware, but many large cities, such as Los Angeles, have traces of pharmaceutical drugs in their tap water. These toxins can build up in your system over time, causing more pain.
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6. Get moving
Getting some exercise will greatly improve your health. Try aiming for 10,000 steps daily. Just go out and do something physical.
7. Stretch
Try some gentle stretches before getting out of bed to relax some of those muscles that have stiffened overnight. Start with some stretches lying down and then some sitting up. Gentle side-to-side stretches will really help.
8. Adjust your bedtime routine
According to Everyday Health, there are three things you should avoid before bedtime: caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol. They can increase your morning stiffness substantially due to the stimulatory effects on your body.
The best thing to do is practice good sleep habits, incorporating these tips whenever you can. Gently stretch and do what you can to warm up and relax your muscles.
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