Holistically Speaking: Taking a Natural Approach to Treat RLS

Whilst experiencing a particularly persistent bout of restless legs syndrome (RLS), I decided to go and hunt down what natural options there are to treat my symptoms. I first chose to complete a basic internet search. This proved fruitful and particularly eye-opening.

Natural massage cream and Epsom salts

A company has developed a natural, herbal massage cream specifically designed for RLS! It contains circulation-enhancing arginine, lavender, chamomile, ylang-ylang, and sageall. Has anybody tried a product like this? I wonder if it is only a "temporary fix" thing and your body adapts to the ingredients and then they cease to give any relief.

Continuing to scroll through my results, I saw a good old wives tale solution – a nice warm bath with Epsom salts added. This one suggested showers too, which is a relief as I don't have a bath!

Sleep schedule adjustments

Another site with multiple suggestions started with going to bed earlier and staying there later, rearranging your evening schedule to compensate for your bedtime. Have dinner earlier and reduce activity. Set out your breakfast items so you can have a little extra time in the morning.

Having a routine helps. Now, this suggestion I query as introducing a routine made my RLS worse. It seemed to acknowledge the ebb and flow of the day, creeping up earlier and earlier! I know I'm making it sound like this condition has a mind of its own and is able to circumnavigate human decisions, but sometimes it feels like it does!

Evaluating my bedtime routine

In my experience, integrating good bedtime activities can help reduce the likelihood of RLS rearing its ugly head. Removing yourself from any blue light gadgets, avoiding stimulating activities, even so much as to avoid exciting or frightening books as your bedtime reading source. In addition, try to have arguments with your partner in the morning, so emotions are not riled before sleep.

Having discussed stretching previously, I think it might be more helpful not to use the Nikki-trademarked "stretching your legs up the wall whilst laying in bed" routine, but I find it does help take the tension out of your muscles, which may reduce symptoms.

Avoiding RLS triggers

Dodging the hidden triggers of RLS can be harder to do, so to help with your condition and mine, here are a few food and drink items I avoid.

As we all know, caffeine can ramp up RLS exponentially, so sidestepping out of its way is a must for me. To start, the most obvious drink to swerve from is coffee, followed by its equally potent cousin, tea. Cola and some other soft drinks need to be left on the supermarket shelves. I doubt anyone is going to consider an energy drink before bed, but I shall list it as one most definitely to avoid! Now, I apologise most profusely for this addition, but I suggest bypassing chocolate.

I had no idea these next 2 items could be considered an issue with RLS, but you may want to avoid taking some over-the-counter weight-loss medicines if caffeine is included in their ingredients. The final and most surprising item for me is certain flavored liquids for e-cigarettes or vaping. It seems caffeine is a sneaky little thing!

Do you look for natural ways to relieve RLS symptoms? Are there any products or practices you find helpful? Is there anything you avoid? Tell us more in the comments below!