Pro-tip for icing efficiently

Some people love a good ice pack, and can sit for what seems like hours on end without taking them off. But if you want to create some deep, penetrating cold in just a few minutes – or if the idea of having a large ice pack touching your body makes you want to retreat to a tropical climate – then ice massage might be just for you!

The easiest option is to grab an ice cube and wrap one end in a paper towel (or washcloth if you don’t want to create waste). Another option, is to fill a paper dixie cup (those tiny 3 or 5 oz ones) half way, freeze, and when you want to use them, simply peel back the cup until the ice is exposed.

Rub the ice in small, gentle circles on the area in need for 5-10 seconds, then remove. Dab with dry cloth/paper towel. Repeat. This is ideal for an area of maybe 6-8 inches (i.e. not your entire back) and the whole application should take no more than 3-5 minutes.The trick to making this totally tolerable for the rest of your body, while quickly chilling the specific area, is to dab up any dribbles of water before they start to run down your skin.

Sometimes an ice cube size is perfect, maybe for your elbow tendonitis or to get that small area of your neck that’s really hurting. Other times an ice pack is more effective, like for your entire lower back after you help someone move all weekend. There’s also the option of freezing a water bottle to use as an ice roller.  Pick the best option for you and enjoy!

Photo by Vika Wendish on Unsplash