image of woman exercising at the gym

7 Pre Workout And Post Workout Body Recovery Rituals

With so many years of being in natural deodorant field, we know a thing or two about sweat. So, what if we told you that sweating is actually good for you?

Sweating helps to boost blood flow and encourages the release of toxins through the skin, helping to keep your body happy and healthy. Sweating is a natural body function that regulates body temperature and lowers stress hormones that may increase internal inflammation.

Furthermore, according to a study, exercise induced perspiration speeds up elimination of some persistent organic pollutants that accumulate in the body. Sweating also secretes a natural antibiotic called Dermcidin that plays a major role in a defense of human skin.

Sweating during a workout is an excellent way to take advantage of all these built-in, naturally-beneficial body functions. So, how do we get the most out of every workout? Here’s our top pre and post workout rituals to ensure peak performance during an activity of your choice.

 

Before your workout

1. Fuel up

You don't want to exercise on an empty stomach, you’ll have no energy to burn, but you don’t want to get physical on a full stomach either. Some almond butter and a banana or some nut butter on whole grain toast will take the edge off your hunger and ensure you have enough energy to get you through. 

2. Get enough sleep

Don’t even think about a heavy workout if you’re running on very little sleep. You’ll put stress on your body and have far less motivation. Be sure to aim for at least 7 hours of shuteye the nights before high impact workouts, otherwise on sleepy days, stick to gentle stretches, Pilates and yoga flows to help get your blood flowing in a mindful manner. 

3. Hydrate

We should all be drinking at least 2 liters of filtered water a day anyway, but you may need more if you’re sweating heavily. A good way to ensure you are hydrated enough before your workout is to check the color of your urine. It should be very light in color or clear. You can also add in a squeeze of lemon, dash of pink salt and a teaspoon of maple syrup to create your very on energizing electrolyte drink.

4. Be comfortable and always warm up

Stick to the right type of workout clothes to help you feel comfortable and to help prevent pain or injury. Proper sports bras for back and breast support, the right sneakers and tights are all good examples of the right type of fitness gear to ensure you have a safe and effective workout. 

Warming up is also imperative to prevent injury, and it doesn’t have to be lengthy. This video is quick and simple but will help to get you ready for more intense moves. 

 

After your workout

1. Stretch

Don’t even think about hitting the showers before you have cooled down by properly stretching out those muscles. 

2. Fuel up again

While it’s optional to fuel up before your workout, it's imperative to fuel up afterwards to help replenish and rebuild your muscles. Protein is what you’re after now, a shake with some peanut butter is a great option. There are many plant-based protein options, all you’ll need to add is a banana and some dairy free milk. 

3. Have a cold shower

Or at least enjoy a blast of cold water at the end of your steamy one! The benefits of cold water are phenomenal for mind and body and are especially beneficial after a sweat fest to help aid in muscle recovery. 

 

These tips will ensure you have an effective, yet healthy workout while you get your (naturally-beneficial) sweat on! 

 

These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For any medical concern you should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Full Medical Disclaimer.