Natural Remedies for Sore Feet: A Complete Guide
Foot pain is more than just a physical annoyance; it can drain your energy and impact your mood. Finding lasting comfort is about supporting your body’s ability to heal, not just masking the symptoms. A holistic approach looks at the root causes of your discomfort and uses gentle, effective methods to restore balance. In this guide, we’ve gathered the best natural remedies for sore feet to help you find relief that feels good for your whole body. We will explore therapeutic soaks, anti-inflammatory ingredients from your own kitchen, and how targeted plant-based solutions like CBD topicals can calm inflammation and ease pain, helping you get back to feeling like yourself again.
Key Takeaways
- Make prevention a daily practice: You can avoid most foot pain by making smart, consistent choices. Prioritize supportive shoes, integrate simple stretches into your morning routine, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce daily strain on your feet.
- Embrace natural, targeted solutions: For immediate relief from aches and soreness, use simple remedies like therapeutic soaks and self-massage. For more focused support, apply a CBD topical directly to painful areas to help calm inflammation right at the source.
- Listen to your body's warning signs: While home remedies are effective for everyday soreness, don't ignore persistent pain, swelling, or numbness. Seeking a professional diagnosis is a crucial step that allows you to combine medical advice with your natural care routine for the best possible outcome.
What's Causing Your Sore Feet?
Foot pain is incredibly common, and it's no wonder. Our feet carry us through life, and a lot of factors can lead to aches and soreness. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward finding lasting relief. From your daily habits to the shoes on your feet, let's look at what might be behind your discomfort.
Everyday Physical Triggers
Our feet do a lot of heavy lifting every single day. Sometimes, the cause of soreness is simply the demand we place on them. Standing for hours at a time, whether for work or at home, puts constant pressure on your arches and heels. The natural aging process can also contribute, as the fatty pads on the bottoms of our feet thin out over time. An injury or just overdoing it with a new exercise routine can lead to pain, as can carrying extra weight. It’s a common problem because we are constantly using our feet for everything we do, so a little wear and tear is normal.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Sometimes, foot pain is a sign of something more specific going on beneath the surface. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, which causes a stabbing pain near the heel, are very common. You might also be dealing with bunions, flat feet, or nerve-related issues that create a burning or tingling sensation. For many, foot pain is a symptom of arthritis, which can cause stiffness and inflammation in the small joints of the feet and toes. Identifying a potential medical cause is key, as it helps you find the most effective treatment instead of just masking the symptoms.
How Your Shoes Impact Foot Health
The shoes you wear can either be your feet's best friend or their worst enemy. Footwear that doesn't fit properly or lacks adequate support is a major source of foot pain. If your shoes are too tight, too loose, or completely worn out, they can't cushion your feet or hold them in a stable position. High heels and shoes with thin, flat soles are particularly tough on your feet, as they can strain your arches and shift your body weight unnaturally. When you choose your shoes, look for good cushioning, solid arch support, and a low, stable heel to keep your feet happy and pain-free.
Warning Signs to Watch For
While many cases of sore feet can be managed at home, it's important to know when to seek professional advice. If your pain is severe, gets worse over time, or stops you from doing your daily activities, it’s time to check in with a doctor or podiatrist. Pay close attention to other symptoms like swelling, redness, or warmth in the painful area, as these could be signs of an infection or significant inflammation. Numbness or a persistent tingling feeling also warrants a professional opinion. Listening to your body and knowing when to get help is a crucial part of taking care of your feet for the long haul.
Find Natural Relief for Sore Feet
When your feet hurt, it can feel like your whole body is out of sync. Finding relief doesn’t always require a trip to the pharmacy. Many effective remedies are likely already in your kitchen or bathroom cabinet. These natural approaches can help soothe tired muscles, reduce swelling, and ease the aches that keep you from moving comfortably through your day. From simple soaks to targeted plant-based solutions, you have plenty of options to care for your feet at home. Let’s walk through some of the best ways to find natural comfort for sore feet.
Try a Therapeutic Foot Soak
There’s nothing quite like a warm foot soak to melt away the day’s tension. This simple ritual does more than just feel good—it can actively reduce pain and swelling. For an extra therapeutic touch, add about a cup of Epsom salts to a basin of warm water. Epsom salt is rich in magnesium, which is known to help relax muscles and ease soreness. Let your feet soak for about 20 minutes to give the magnesium time to absorb and work its magic. This is a perfect way to unwind before bed and prepare your body for a restful night.
Use Hot and Cold Therapy
Alternating between hot and cold temperatures is a time-tested method for managing pain and inflammation. This technique, known as contrast water therapy, can work wonders for aching feet. The warm water helps increase blood flow and relax tight muscles, while the cold water constricts blood vessels, which can reduce swelling and numb sharp pain. Try soaking your feet in a warm bath for 10 minutes, then switching to a basin of cold water for another 10 minutes. Repeating this cycle a few times can provide significant relief, especially after a long day of standing or walking.
Apply Essential Oils for Relief
Essential oils offer a fragrant and effective way to soothe foot pain. Certain oils, like peppermint, lavender, and tea tree, contain natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritation. Before applying them to your skin, it’s important to dilute a few drops in a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, to prevent skin sensitivity. Gently massage the oil blend into the arches, heels, and balls of your feet. The combination of the oils’ properties and the physical act of massage helps stimulate circulation and release tension.
Discover CBD-Infused Solutions
CBD is quickly becoming a go-to for people seeking targeted, plant-based relief from discomfort. When applied topically, CBD interacts with receptors in your skin to help soothe pain and inflammation right at the source. This makes it an excellent option for foot pain. You can find CBD-infused topicals like creams, balms, and patches that are designed for easy application. Simply apply the product directly to the sore areas of your feet for focused support. It’s a modern, natural approach to managing foot pain that fits easily into any self-care routine.
Embrace Natural Anti-Inflammatories
Your kitchen pantry holds powerful ingredients that can help fight inflammation from the outside in. Turmeric, for example, contains curcumin, a compound celebrated for its potent anti-inflammatory effects. You can create a simple paste by mixing a few teaspoons of turmeric powder with a small amount of water. Apply this paste to the sore parts of your feet, let it sit for 20-30 minutes, and then rinse it off. Just be mindful that turmeric can temporarily stain your skin and fabrics. This is a great, low-cost way to harness the power of nature for foot relief.
Make an Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another versatile household staple that can help with sore feet. Its properties may help reduce inflammation and soothe aching. To prepare a soak, simply add about a half-cup of ACV to a basin of warm water. Let your feet soak for about 20 minutes to absorb the benefits. An apple cider vinegar soak is a gentle and refreshing remedy, perfect for reviving tired feet after a demanding day. It’s an easy and affordable addition to your foot care toolkit.
Create a Turmeric Paste
If you’re looking for a direct way to apply a natural anti-inflammatory, a turmeric paste is an excellent choice. Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, is well-known for its ability to help reduce pain and swelling. To make a paste, mix a few tablespoons of turmeric powder with enough warm water to create a thick, spreadable consistency. Gently apply it to the most painful areas of your feet, cover them loosely with a cloth to avoid messes, and let the paste sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water. It’s a powerful, hands-on remedy for targeted relief.
Stretch and Strengthen Your Feet
Think of your feet as the foundation of your body. When they’re in pain, it can throw everything else off balance. Just like any other part of your body, your feet benefit immensely from regular movement and care. Incorporating simple stretches and strengthening exercises into your routine can help relieve current aches, prevent future pain, and improve your overall mobility. These movements don't require a gym membership or fancy equipment—just a few minutes of your time each day.
When you’re dealing with chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, gentle movement is key. Strengthening the muscles in your feet and lower legs provides better support for your joints, while stretching improves flexibility and eases tension. Pairing these exercises with natural solutions like CBD for pain management can create a powerful, holistic approach to feeling your best. The goal is to build resilience from the ground up, so you can keep moving with greater comfort and confidence.
Simple Stretches for Daily Relief
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your arches happy is the toe curl. This simple movement helps prevent common issues like plantar fasciitis. To get started, sit in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Place a small towel in front of you and use only your toes to scrunch it up and pull it toward you. Repeat this motion five to ten times with each foot. You can do this while watching TV or sitting at your desk—it’s a perfect little exercise to sneak into your day for some much-needed foot relief.
Try the Marble Pickup Exercise
Ready for a fun little challenge that does wonders for your feet? The marble pickup exercise is fantastic for building strength and improving dexterity in your toes. All you need is a handful of marbles (or any small, similar-sized objects) and a cup. Sit in a chair and place the marbles on the floor in front of you. Keeping your heel on the ground, use your toes to pick up one marble at a time and drop it into the cup. This simple activity helps strengthen the small muscles in your feet and can be a game-changer for stability.
Roll Out Pain with a Tennis Ball
If you have a tennis ball lying around, you have one of the best tools for instant foot relief. A tennis ball massage is perfect for working out knots and soothing sore arches. While sitting or standing, place the ball under your foot and gently roll it back and forth from your heel to your toes. When you find a particularly tender spot, pause and apply gentle pressure for about 30 seconds. This technique helps release tension in the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, providing quick and effective soreness alleviation.
Improve Your Toe Flexibility
Don't forget to give your toes some individual attention! They do a lot of work, and stretching them can relieve a surprising amount of tension throughout your entire foot. While seated, cross one leg over the other and gently use your hand to pull your big toe back toward your ankle. You should feel a nice stretch along the bottom of your foot. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat a few times before switching to the other toes and then the other foot. This simple stretch is great for maintaining flexibility and preventing stiffness.
Don't Forget Your Calves and Achilles
Tight calf muscles can pull on your Achilles tendon, which connects to your heel bone, leading to a world of foot pain. That’s why stretching your calves is non-negotiable for happy feet. The classic wall stretch is perfect for this. Stand facing a wall with your hands placed on it for support. Step one foot back, keeping your leg straight and your heel flat on the floor. Gently lean forward until you feel a stretch in your calf. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat three times on each leg. Keeping your calves loose is a key part of a holistic foot health routine.
Master Self-Massage Techniques
A little self-massage can go a long way in soothing tired, achy feet at the end of the day. Sit in a comfortable position and use your thumbs to apply gentle, circular pressure to the sole of your foot. Knead the arch, heel, and ball of your foot, paying attention to any sore spots. Using a lotion or oil can make the massage smoother and more relaxing. For an even deeper massage, consider using a foot roller. This is also a perfect time to combine therapies by using one of our CBD topicals to help soothe inflammation and pain directly at the source.
Prevent Foot Pain Before It Starts
The best way to deal with sore feet is to stop the pain from happening in the first place. By making a few simple adjustments to your daily habits, you can build a strong foundation for foot health and keep yourself moving comfortably. Think of it as proactive care—small, consistent efforts that pay off big time by preventing strain, reducing inflammation, and supporting your feet through everything you do. These preventative steps don't require a major overhaul of your life, just a little more mindfulness about how you treat your feet each day.
Choose Supportive Footwear
Let's start with the basics: your shoes. The right pair can feel like a supportive hug for your feet, while the wrong ones can be the source of so much trouble. When you're shopping, look for shoes with low heels, good cushioning, and solid arch support. It’s also important to make sure there’s enough room in the toe box for your toes to wiggle freely. High heels and shoes with super thin soles might look great, but they can put a lot of unnecessary strain on your feet. Investing in quality, supportive footwear isn't a luxury; it's a fundamental step in preventing pain before it even has a chance to begin.
Fuel Your Body with Water and Nutrients
What you put into your body has a direct impact on how your feet feel. Staying hydrated is key, as it helps keep your joints lubricated and muscles functioning properly. Maintaining a healthy weight is also crucial, since extra pounds put more pressure on the complex structures of your feet, which can lead to pain over time. You can also support your body’s natural defenses by incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet, like leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish. A well-rounded diet not only benefits your overall wellness but also gives your feet the nutritional support they need to stay strong and pain-free.
Walk with Proper Form
How you move matters. Paying attention to your walking and running form helps distribute your weight evenly, preventing excess stress on your heels, arches, or the balls of your feet. Before you head out for a walk or any exercise, take a few minutes to stretch your calves and ankles. This simple warm-up prepares your muscles for activity and can help prevent injuries. If you’re a runner, make a habit of replacing your shoes regularly, as the cushioning wears down over time. Focusing on proper walking form—striking with your heel and rolling through your foot—can make a world of difference in preventing chronic foot pain.
Prioritize Rest and Recovery
In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget that rest is just as important as activity. Giving your feet a break is essential for preventing overuse injuries and managing inflammation. Make a point to elevate your feet whenever you can, especially after a long day of standing or walking, to help reduce any swelling. If you feel a twinge of pain, don't push through it. Listen to your body and take a rest day. Simple recovery practices, like applying a cold pack for 15-20 minutes, can also help soothe tired muscles and prevent minor aches from turning into bigger problems. Building recovery into your routine is a powerful way to support your long-term pain management goals.
Stock Your Natural Foot Care Toolkit
Being prepared is the best way to handle foot pain when it flares up. Having a few key items on hand means you can find relief quickly and effectively. Think of this as building your personal, all-natural first-aid kit specifically for your feet.
Target Pain with CBD Topicals and Patches
When your feet are aching, you want relief sent directly to the source of the pain. That’s where CBD topicals and patches shine. Unlike oils that work systemically, a CBD-infused cream or patch delivers targeted relief right where you apply it. The cannabinoids interact with receptors in your skin to help calm inflammation and soothe sore muscles and joints. For consistent, slow-release relief that lasts for hours, CBD patches can be a game-changer, especially for chronic issues like arthritis pain in your feet.
Explore Soothing Herbal Remedies
Beyond CBD, many other plants offer powerful soothing properties for tired, achy feet. Arnica, for example, is a well-known herb often used to address bruising, swelling, and pain. You can find it in gels and creams that are easy to apply after a long day. Another great option is chamomile, which has anti-inflammatory effects that can help calm irritated skin and reduce swelling. Incorporating these herbal remedies into your foot soaks or applying them as a cream can add another layer of natural comfort to your routine.
Mix Your Own Essential Oil Blends
Creating your own massage oil is a simple and rewarding way to care for your feet. Certain essential oils are fantastic for pain and inflammation. Peppermint oil creates a cooling sensation that can numb aches, while lavender is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory benefits. To make a blend, simply add a few drops of your chosen essential oils to a carrier oil like coconut or sweet almond oil. Gently massaging this mixture into your feet not only provides relief but also improves circulation. Always do a small patch test first to ensure your skin doesn't have a reaction.
Invest in Quality Insoles
Sometimes, the best remedy is preventing the problem from starting. If you spend a lot of time on your feet, quality insoles can make a world of difference by providing the support your arches need. Proper support helps distribute pressure evenly across your feet, which can prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis and general soreness. While they can be an investment, the right insoles correct your alignment and cushion your steps, protecting your feet, ankles, and even your back from daily strain. Think of them as the foundation for your entire body’s well-being.
Create Your Daily Foot Care Routine
Just like a skincare routine helps keep your face healthy, a foot care routine can prevent pain and keep you moving comfortably. Consistency is the secret ingredient here. You don’t need to spend hours on your feet; a few minutes each day dedicated to stretching, soothing, and maintenance can make a world of difference. Think of it as a small investment in your long-term mobility and comfort.
Creating a daily ritual helps you stay on top of potential issues before they become chronic problems. It’s about building simple, sustainable habits that support the complex structures of your feet. From gentle morning stretches to a relaxing evening soak, these practices can reduce inflammation, improve flexibility, and relieve the stress your feet endure every day. Integrating targeted products, like a soothing CBD topical, can enhance your routine and provide an extra layer of relief right where you need it most.
Start Your Day with Morning Stretches
Before you even step out of bed, take a few moments to gently wake up your feet. Morning stretches help warm up the muscles and ligaments, which can prevent common problems like arch pain and plantar fasciitis. A simple calf stretch is a great place to start. Stand facing a wall and step one foot forward, keeping the back leg straight until you feel a gentle stretch in your calf. Another effective exercise is the toe curl: sit in a chair with a small towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it toward you. These simple foot exercises improve circulation and flexibility, preparing your feet for the day ahead.
Wind Down with an Evening Ritual
After a long day, your feet deserve some pampering. Soaking them in a bowl of warm water is a fantastic way to ease soreness and fatigue. For an even more therapeutic experience, add a cup of Epsom salts, which can help reduce swelling and soothe aching muscles. If you’re dealing with more intense pain or inflammation, applying an ice pack for 15-20 minutes can provide significant relief. Turning this into a nightly ritual not only helps your feet recover but also signals to your body that it’s time to relax and unwind. This is a perfect time to gently massage your feet with a pain-relieving cream to address soreness from the day.
Add Weekly Maintenance Habits
Good foot hygiene is the foundation of preventing pain and other issues. Make it a habit to wash your feet daily with soap and water, and be sure to dry them completely, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections. After drying, apply a good moisturizer to keep the skin soft and prevent it from cracking. A high-quality CBD-infused topical can be a great option, as it both hydrates the skin and helps soothe underlying aches. Another simple yet effective habit is to avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Rotating your footwear allows each pair to air out completely, reducing the risk of odor and bacteria growth.
Address Specific Foot Problems
While general foot care is fantastic, sometimes you need to address a specific, nagging issue. Different parts of your foot can hurt for different reasons, and knowing the cause helps you find the right solution. Whether it’s a sharp pain in your heel or a dull ache in your arch, a targeted approach can make all the difference in getting you back on your feet comfortably.
Let's look at some of the most common foot problems and simple, natural ways you can manage them at home. These strategies focus on providing relief and supporting your body's healing process, so you can find lasting comfort.
Soothing Plantar Fasciitis
If you feel a stabbing pain in the bottom of your heel, especially with your first steps in the morning, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis. This happens when the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed. The good news is that simple, consistent care can provide significant relief.
Gentle, regular stretches are one of the most effective ways to ease the tension. Try a calf stretch against a wall: step one foot forward and bend the knee, keeping your back leg straight until you feel a gentle pull in your calf. Holding this for 30 seconds on each side can help prevent arch pain. For direct relief, applying a CBD topical to the heel can help calm the localized inflammation.
Managing Persistent Heel Pain
Heel pain isn't always caused by plantar fasciitis; it can also stem from issues with your Achilles tendon or bursitis. If your heel is consistently sore, it’s your body’s way of asking for a break. The first step is to identify and avoid activities that make the pain worse. This doesn't mean you have to stop moving, but you might need to swap high-impact exercises for gentler alternatives like swimming or cycling for a while.
At home, you can use ice packs to reduce swelling and numb the pain. While over-the-counter pain relievers are an option, many people seek natural alternatives. Incorporating natural anti-inflammatory solutions into your routine can offer a gentle yet effective way to manage discomfort without unwanted side effects.
Relieving Pain in the Ball of Your Foot
An aching or burning sensation in the ball of your foot can make every step feel like a chore. This type of pain is often caused by conditions like Morton's neuroma, where the tissue around a nerve leading to your toes thickens. One of the biggest culprits is often ill-fitting footwear, especially shoes that are too tight in the toe box.
Giving your feet enough room to breathe is crucial. Make sure you’re wearing shoes that fit well and provide plenty of support. You can also find relief by reducing inflammation in the affected area. Gently massaging a soothing CBD cream into the ball of your foot can help calm the nerve irritation and provide targeted comfort right where you need it most.
Finding the Right Arch Support
Your arches do the heavy lifting when it comes to absorbing shock and keeping you stable. When they don't have enough support, it can lead to pain not just in your feet but also in your knees, hips, and back. Choosing shoes with good arch support is one of the most important things you can do for your foot health.
If you have flat feet or struggle with balance, you might benefit from special inserts, or orthotics, for your shoes. These can help stabilize your feet and reduce pain when you stand or walk. Proper support prevents unnecessary strain, but for days when your arches still feel tired and sore, a warm foot soak combined with a pain-relieving topical can work wonders.
Know When to See a Doctor
While natural remedies can work wonders for everyday aches, it’s just as important to know when to call in a professional. Think of it this way: you are the expert on your own body, but a doctor is an expert on what’s going on inside it. Listening to your body’s signals and seeking medical advice when needed is a crucial part of any wellness routine. Ignoring persistent or severe pain can lead to bigger issues down the road, so let’s talk about the signs that mean it’s time to make an appointment.
Understand Your Personal Risk Factors
Sometimes, the reason for our sore feet is pretty clear—maybe you spent all day on your feet at work or wore a new pair of shoes that weren’t quite broken in. But other times, the cause is less obvious. Certain factors can increase your chances of developing foot pain, including getting older, carrying extra weight, or having a job that requires long hours of standing. Understanding the common causes of foot pain can help you connect the dots between your lifestyle and your symptoms. If you know you have a higher risk, it’s even more important to pay attention to what your feet are telling you and be proactive about seeking care.
Recognize Signs of a Serious Condition
It’s one thing to have tired, achy feet after a long day, but it’s another to experience pain that signals a more serious problem. You should always call your doctor if you have sudden or severe foot pain, especially if it started after an injury. Other non-negotiable signs include any redness, swelling, or warmth that could indicate an infection, particularly if you also have a fever. If your foot pain has been lingering for more than a couple of weeks without improvement, it’s time to get it checked out. A proper diagnosis is the first step toward effective pain management and finding the right path to relief.
Don't Ignore These Red Flags
We often try to push through discomfort, but some symptoms should never be ignored. If your foot pain is so bad that it stops you from doing your normal daily activities, that’s a major red flag. Another critical sign is any numbness or tingling in your foot. These sensations can point to nerve issues that need medical attention. When basic home care and natural remedies aren’t enough to relieve foot pain, it’s your body’s way of telling you it needs more support. Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable; listen to these early warnings and consult a healthcare professional.
Combine Natural and Professional Care
Embracing natural solutions and seeing a doctor are not mutually exclusive—in fact, they work best together. A podiatrist or physician can give you a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan, which creates the perfect foundation for you to build on with supportive, natural care. Once you know what you’re dealing with, you can confidently incorporate things like CBD topicals, gentle stretches, and therapeutic soaks into your routine. This integrated approach ensures you’re addressing the root cause of your pain while also giving your body the gentle, natural support it deserves. Think of it as creating a complete wellness team, with your doctor and your natural remedies working in harmony.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get fast relief for my sore feet after a long day? For quick relief, a warm Epsom salt soak is one of the best things you can do. Soaking for about 20 minutes helps relax tired muscles and reduce swelling. Another great trick is to roll a tennis ball under your foot while you're sitting down. This simple massage helps release tension in your arches and is especially effective for that deep, nagging ache.
How exactly does a CBD topical work for foot pain? When you apply a CBD cream or patch directly to your foot, it works right at the source of your discomfort. The CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in your skin, which helps to calm inflammation and soothe pain locally. This is different from an oil you might take orally, as it provides targeted relief exactly where you need it most, without affecting your whole body.
Are there any simple exercises I can do at my desk to prevent foot pain? Absolutely. One of the easiest is the toe curl. Just place a small towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it up and pull it toward you. You can also do simple ankle rotations, drawing circles in the air with your big toe. These small movements keep the muscles in your feet active and flexible, which goes a long way in preventing stiffness and pain from sitting all day.
My heel hurts the most, especially in the morning. What's the best way to handle that? That sharp morning heel pain is a classic sign of plantar fasciitis. The best way to manage it is with consistent, gentle stretching. Before getting out of bed, try pulling your toes back toward your shin to stretch the bottom of your foot. Regular calf stretches against a wall are also crucial, as tight calves can pull on your heel. Applying a soothing topical directly to the heel can also help manage the inflammation.
Besides good shoes, what's the most important habit for preventing foot pain? Creating a simple daily routine is the most powerful habit you can build. This doesn't have to be complicated. Just take a few minutes every morning to stretch your feet and calves before you start your day. Then, in the evening, give them a little attention with a quick massage or soak. This consistent care builds resilience and helps you address minor aches before they turn into chronic problems.