Going on vacation soon? We recommend adding a tennis ball to your list of travel essentials. It’s the perfect size and hardness for stretching out your muscles, which is something we should all be doing daily.
Even if you’re already stretching without aid, that’s great! But, it’s nearly impossible to do when in a confined place, such as a plane or car seat. That’s where a tennis ball comes in. Here are just five ways it can be your new vacation buddy:
One: Relieve aching feet
Your feet can get sore when traveling or from all that flip-flop wearing. If you already suffer from a foot condition such as Planta Fasciitis, you really want to keep on top of it while away. Massaging the sole of your foot with a tennis ball will loosen up the muscles and connective tissues. Either sitting or standing, roll the ball under your foot – from side to side on the arch and then the length of your foot, from heel to toe.
Two: Increase circulation
During a long flight, train, or car journey, you can help increase circulation by rolling the tennis ball over your body. The legs are the most likely place for a clot to form, so focus on massaging the ball from your ankles and up over your thighs. You can even place the ball under the back of your leg, giving you a deep massage. There are other ways to counter sitting down for extended periods, such as keeping hydrated and getting up and moving around.
Three: Help with back soreness
Traveling can be painful on the back. Massage key areas with the ball while in transit, and if you can, increase the pressure by placing the ball between your back and something else – like the back of your seat or a wall.
Four: Counter all that carrying
From carrying suitcases to beach supplies to perching your child up high, your shoulders go through a lot on vacation. Using either a wall or the floor, press the tennis ball into key trigger points. You may feel soreness, but you shouldn’t feel pain.
Five: Keep your neck in good order
Your neck goes through a lot, too, especially nowadays with the invention of smart devices. Just getting to our tour destination, many of us sleep in a position that strains our neck. Unless you travel with your own pillow, most of us end up sleeping on a pillow and mattress that doesn’t provide much support. Then there’s the increased holiday reading or sunbathing with your head turned to the side… we could go on. The point is, your neck is really being tested. To counter, position the tennis ball at the top of your neck and gently (gently!) roll the ball around and feel the tension release.
When you’re back, pop in for a check-up so we can ensure you’re in tip-top condition and won’t end your vacation feeling stiff and sore.