Pill-Free Ways To Beat Pain

Hate taking meds? Try these natural tips, tricks and buys instead.

 

- Adila Jallal

1. SNACK ON CHERRIES

Cherries gain their deep red colour from anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that’s been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, similar to those found in aspirin. For an anti-inflammatory boost, try CherryActive Concentrate (r382,84; Wellness Warehouse).

2. ROLL WITH IT

Neck pain? Try this tennis ball trick. Stand against a wall, put the ball behind your neck and carefully move it around the painful area. The pressure increases blood flow, bringing more oxygen to the tissues to aid repair.

3. HAVE A CHUCKLE

‘Laughter can trigger endorphins, feel-good hormones that lower cortisol, which can promote an overall feeling of well-being,’ says holistic therapist Rebecca Kelly. ‘Laughter can’t take away the pain, but it can detract from its intensity.’

4. GOOD VIBRATIONS

A TENS machine uses bio-electrical nerve stimulation to block pain signals to the brain. It’s great for menstrual cramps, arthritis, nerve pain and more; see hidow.co.za

5. STRETCH