Your joints could be described as your body’s hinges. They are made up of cartilage, ligaments and synovial fluid, all of which work together to support the bones and cushion the spaces between them. When the joints are well maintained the body is assured optimal mobility and flexibility. In our blog post Flexibility – The Key to Health, Happiness and Longevity, we explored the importance of flexibility in enabling the infinite variety of angles of movement of which the body is capable. However, this is not just a matter of greater mobility: it is vital in ensuring that all the internal organs are supported in the correct position as well as in preventing disorders of the nervous system , the circulatory and cardiovascular systems, and more.

People of all ages can be affected by loss of flexibility but it is especially common above the age of 40 when hormone depletion often affects the joints. This does not happen overnight but one should be aware of some of the early signs, such as creaking and cracking sounds from the joints or difficulty getting moving again after sitting for some time. Ayurveda has some highly effective medicines for hormone balance and yoga practice can also be very beneficial but it is important not to put off taking such action until the problem has advanced to a chronic stage.

Better still would be to adopt a few simple and enjoyable preventive practices, and one of the most pleasurable is the daily use of Mahanarayan massage oil. We have developed our own version using a blend of multiple herbs in a base of black sesame oil. Used before showering or bathing it helps to ease tired or stiff muscles as well as calming the peripheral nervous system and can even be beneficial for specific health problems such as arthritis. When it is used as part of a daily routine it greatly assists in the maintenance of flexibility.

Other practices which can be very beneficial include the yogic exercise ‘Sun Salutation’ and certain Pranayamic exercises such as ‘Nadi Shodhana’ see YATAN Yoga – A Natural Guide To Health & Harmony.

Flexibility and mobility can also benefit from the daily consumption, before breakfast, of a juice made from carrot, celery and green apple. Finally, many people find it helpful to fast for 24 hours once a month.

Mahanaryan Massage Oil is now available from our online store.