That's a RELIEF!

16 ways to ease your aches and pains – naturally

BE MINDFUL

People who say pain is in the mind may be on to something. Nikki Harman, aka The Mindful Nurse, explains, ‘Imagine your pain as something physical – it might be a cartoon character, a shape or a colour. As you breathe, visualise something destroying that image.’

Learn body control

A study at York University found practising the Alexander Technique (which focuses on posture) can reduce neck pain by a third. It changes the way we use our bodies in everyday activities like getting up from a chair. To find a teacher, visit alexandertechnique.co.uk.

Change your bra

Wearing the wrong size bra can cause back pain from bad posture, and headache from restricted nerves and reduced blood flow. ‘The right fit can make a huge difference,’ says physio Sammy Margo.

SPICE THINGS UP

Research from the University of Miami found that severe knee pain caused by osteoarthritis was significantly reduced with ginger supplements. Other studies have shown turmeric to work better than aspirin. Look for products containing at least 80% curcumin.

KNIT ONE, PURL ONE

Exercise, company and ‘mind over matter’ thinking can lessen pain. ‘Knitting in a group fulfils all three,’ says Dr Martin Johnson (The 10-Minute Consultation: Persistent Pain (£9.99, Cedilla). ‘It distracts the mind, is sociable, and the exercise releases painkilling endorphins.’