How to Relax Sore Muscles and Reduce Tightness

I've been working out for over a year now and the one thing I can't seem to get under control is my flexibility and muscle tightness. I do occasionally seek massage therapy and try to stretch on a regular basis, but it's not working fast enough. Here are a few tips to help with your muscle health and hopefully get me on the path to flexibility. I don't ever think I'll be able to move like Percy Harvin but that's not really a fair comparison. Here are 5 ways to improve your muscle health.

1.) Meditate: I didn't think this would actually work but it does clear your mind of all the noise and help calm and relax your body. Try putting on some headphones and relaxing for 15 minutes, you might be surprised by the effects.

2.) Breathe: A lot of times when you are stressed you take short shallow breathes. It's important to fill up your lungs and focus on the exhale. Try 15 to 20 deep breathes to relax those tight muscles.

3.) Massage: I've always been a big believer in massage and if you have tight muscles some deep tissue massage should do the trick.

4.) Water: After you massage you should be drinking a lot of water. In fact you should start your day by drinking 16oz of water as soon as you get up. You should also drink 20 to 24 oz of water after working out and make sure you are drinking a little water before and after each meal. You will be shocked by how much better you feel.

5.) Magnesium: A lot of times we do not eat a balanced diet and that contributes to toxins in our bodies and issues like tight muscles. Try adding almonds or spinach to your diet and enjoy the benefits of these super-foods.