Exercise - Great Natural Treatment for Psoriasis
Psoriasis can make everyday activities feel as though they require second thought or special consideration, especially doing things that make a flare-up feel even more uncomfortable or show problem areas in public. Working out can hit both of these marks, and you might end up opting to skip a quick exercise session, but today, we’re going to look at how incredible working out is for your psoriasis (and why) and discuss options for your workout that will work with you instead of against you.
Exercising Benefits
Exercising works as a treatment in itself for your psoriasis by making your existing treatment work better. Additionally, decreasing weight can reduce inflammation, which will ultimately calm some of your psoriasis. It can also reduce your risk of psoriasis-related illnesses such as Crohn’s Disease, Diabetes, liver, kidney, and heart problems. The cycle of increasing workouts and decreasing flare-ups will only make you even more motivated to work out.
Exercising Challenges
Sometimes patient's concern with working out is heading to the gym with a flare-up, but there are a couple of things you can do to mitigate your uneasiness and increase your own confidence in this area. The first and easiest thing you can do: let the people around you know! If people know ahead of time, it breaks the ice of having to ask you questions, and you can get on with your workout. It can also provide immense comfort to you for people to understand what you’re going through and the peace of mind of not worrying about wearing clothes that reveal plaques and just simply getting on with your workout.
Other Options
If you’re not yet comfortable with the gym or you simply just would like other options, these are for you. Walking, jogging and hiking are great low-impact ways to get your sweat on. In this day and age, there are so many online options and even free videos you can find to work out. Again, low-impact activities with a low risk of injury are best. Elliptical, biking, really anything where you’re not at risk for bruises or cuts from working out. Even if for only 15 minutes, a little bit of something is better than nothing. Remember, it’s a work in progress. The more you get used to working out, the easier it will become for both you and your psoriasis.
Do what works for you!
Working out doesn’t have to be intimidating or mean significant changes in your life. Starting slow is the key to sustained effort. If that means taking a walk around your neighborhood, that’s great! Even smaller steps are steps towards your goal, and hopefully also fewer flare-ups and a more manageable level of the condition. Not to mention, some added self-confidence and routine being added to your day can help you