Stretching aids, self-massage tools, and essential oils. I’ve assembled many of the items I recommend so you can easily find and purchase them in one place.

• LaCrosse Ball – Lacrosse balls are so dense they don’t squish down like tennis balls. A tennis ball is fine, but a lacrosse ball offers a more concentrated, deeper form of tissue release. Use the weight of your body, ideally positioned against gravity, on top of the lacrosse ball to provide deep pressure. Common utilisations are sitting on the ball for piriformis/glute/hip rotator relief and leaning against a wall with the ball between your back and the wall to provide relief for the back extensors, rhomboids, rotator cuff, upper shoulder area, etc.
• Foam Roller – Foam rollers are best known for ‘rolling out’ problem areas like the IT band. I also like to use them for postural support in sitting, a la a MacKenzie Lumbar Roll. Additionally, foam rollers provide a relaxing passive pectoral stretch when you lay on top of one placed in line with your spine. Arms out to the side, head hanging down.
• Castor Oil – Castor oil attracts the circulation of blood flow to an area. Its indicated for hair growth and skin conditioning properties because of exactly this fact. Use an empty mascara tube to keep some castor oil for your eyelashes / eyebrows. Apply it with the mascara applicator tool. Use some castor oil for a scalp massage.
• Epsom Salts – The active ingredient of epsom salts is magnesium sulfate.
• TRX Suspension Training System – Portable gym providing resistance exercise for a full body workout on the go.
• Kinesio Tape Extra support to inhibit or activate muscle appropriately. The best applications I’ve seen are for plantar fascitis.

BOOKS:

I’m a self-confessed anatomy nerd! I’m always reading books on wellness and exercise science. Here you’ll find links to books I recommend for my clients. I’ve read them all and vouch for their content and readability!

• Running Injury-Free: How to Prevent, Treat, and Recover From Runner’s Knee, Shin Splints, Sore Feet and Every Other Ache and Pain

  ---

  I read this book cover to cover, although I imagine most of my clients will use it more as reference. This book successfully educates (in layman’s terms) on topics such as Q Angle, Overpronation, the Gait Cycle, and how these affect your running. It illustrates the importance of maintaining flexibility at the ankle, knee, and hips. It helps you choose the correct type of shoe for your arches. It breaks down common running injuries, letting you know when and how to self-treat and also when you should see a doctor. Look for a full review of this book coming from me soon in my blog!

 

Self-Massage Tools and Wellness Products

• Purchase Self Care Tools
• Purchase Essential Oils

Other Online Marketplaces

Did you enjoy the vibe at our studio or pop-up events? Check out all the mid to late century and psychedelic decor / clothing / accessories we have to offer! More links to @realmamaearth online storefronts.