This is one of my very favorite things that I pretty much use on the daily, and since I talk about it with many in person, here's the rundown so you too can easily put your own together and feel the "Ahhhhh".

If you're not already aware, magnesium has been getting more attention in the natural health space in recent times, namely because research has shown an increase in its proven uses from a few to several hundred (meaning the body pretty much needs this important mineral to do just about everything) and most of us simply don't get enough.

There are about 10 forms of magnesium and they all operate a little differently in the body. Whether we need more or less of certain types, we certainly want to first acquire our daily needs from good whole food sources then supplement if the need is determined, but that's a conversation for another day.

Today we're talking about the benefits of topical magnesium as a simple and optimal delivery method to help with pain relief and muscle relaxation.

One of the top benefits of using topical magnesium is that absorbs right through the skin and doesn't have to go through the digestive process. This is why soaking in a hot epsom salt bath (also a form of magnesium), while not always convenient, is so therapeutic.

This also means it may be better tolerated and utilized by most people, because depending on the form of magnesium (there are several), it may cause some digestive upset OR get "lost" or diminished during the digestive process.

And if you're experiencing muscle aches, pains or cramping, it's easier and faster to "spot treat" using it topically.

Case in point: Once upon a time, I did a lot of hiking and climbing. Lots of miles and lots of elevation and while it was fun, adventurous and thrilling to conquer long distances and big mountaintops, I would often be so sore and depleted, sometimes wrecked and recovering for days, not that it's just par for the course. I incurred my fair share of aches, pains and injuries, and then over time I developed restless leg syndrome to the point I couldn't sleep and was barrel rolling every 30 seconds through the night. It took me awhile to figure out that I was just burning through and not replacing the minerals I needed to replenish my body.

As I was working to correct this, I was introduced to magnesium cream when I got a small jar as a gift. Not knowing what to do with it immediately, it sat around for awhile until it occurred to me that maybe I could try it for a literal "pain in the butt" that I had been experiencing for a long, long time.

I applied it one night before bed, relaxed so well I slept like a champ (another perk) and woke up in less pain. The more regularly I used it, the better I felt and it, along with some other techniques, was truly pivotal in relieving my pain, correcting my muscle imbalance, alleviating my restless legs and improving my mood.

And then, I ran out of my little gifted jar. Boo! I checked at my local stores but no one carried it as a cream and I wasn't sure about ordering it from the online Gigantor store. I looked at the label to see what the heck was in it and while there were several yummy AND NATURAL ingredients (yes please!), I realized I already had the basics on hand and could simply make my own.

So that's what I did and turned my little jar into a bigger one and started using it on a regular basis, but more on that later.

The main component here is magnesium oil.

It's not really an oil per se, but rather a magnesium chloride/salt brine that feels oily.

So why not just use it straight and call it good?

Using magnesium oil by itself often stings your skin when applied and can leave a sticky/chalky residue. It's just not pleasant that way and who wants to suffer for 20-30 minutes to let it soak in only to then have to shower and wash it all off?

Not me! I want it to be convenient, easy to use, feel good and be long lasting.

That said, I'm going to give you THREE easy ways to make and use your own magnesium cream as you like.

The ingredients should be easy to find in your favorite health food store, but I've curated a list of items made up and ready to go here so you can get a visual, get more information and even order if that's easier for you. (See the "Community Plans" tab once into your free Fullscript account).

DIY MAGNESIUM CREAM WAY #1--QUICK & EASY

• Put a little of your favorite (preferably non-chemical type) body cream or lotion in the palm your hand (a pump, a squirt or two)
• Add 3-4 sprays of magnesium oil

Rub your hands together to mix and apply to desired area. Repeat where and when necessary. You get the idea.

DIY MAGNESIUM CREAM WAY #2--QUICK & EASY PLUS

• For added pain relief, add a little (1/4-1/2 tsp.) Arnica Cream to OR instead of your favorite body cream or lotion
• Add 3-4 sprays of magnesium oil

Proceed as above.

Arnica Montana is a homeopathic pain/swelling/bruising remedy, so if you're experiencing an injury or deeper pain, this can be an added perk on its own OR when added to the magnesium oil.

DIY MAGNESIUM CREAM WAY #3--THE BIGGER BATCH

This is what I make and put in a jar because I find it's the easier bulk version and simple to just reach for, scoop and rub.

To be honest, I typically just eyeball the amounts as it's really not all that complicated. I'm going to give you the basics of what I do but you can make it your own based on the strength and consistency that you like.

• Small jar (4-8 oz) with lid
• 2-3 oz. shea butter
• 1 oz. coconut oil (1-2 Tbs.), melted or partially melted but not hot
• 2-3 Tbs. magnesium oil
• 6-8 drops lavender oil (more relaxing) OR
• 6-8 drops bergamot (citrus) oil (more energizing)

Put the ingredients in a small bowl and stir thoroughly (I actually use my hand mixer) until all ingredients are well- blended and creamy. Transfer to jar.

You can adjust the ingredients to get the right consistency for you and use another favorite essential oil. If it's too runny, add a little more shea butter. If it's too thick, add a little more coconut oil or magnesium oil (which will also increase the strength and perhaps the chalky/tackiness).

*OPTION: You can also add about 1-2 tsp. of Arnica Cream (OR about 1/4-1/2 tsp. Arnica Oil) for added pain relief benefits, or just keep it separate to add on the side when needed.

These are the quick and easy basics to magnesium cream.

The goal is to have a simple, natural pain relieving remedy on hand that also infuses this mighty mineral into your system in a simple, therapeutic way.

I do take other forms of magnesium orally because they all work a little different, but I've found topical magnesium cream to be a lifesaver when dealing with aches, pains and relaxation.

MY FAVORITE WAYS TO USE MAGNESIUM CREAM

• LOWER BACK PAIN? Rub into lower back, glutes and hips, day or night.
• CALF PAIN OR CRAMPS? Rub into calves, especially at night
• RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME? Rub into feet, calves, thighs, especially at night
• FOOT PAIN? Rub into feet, ankles and calves
• SHOULDER OR NECK PAIN? Rub into affected shoulder and up into the neck
• HANDS AND FINGERS HURT? Rub into hands and fingers, especially before bed. Add Arnica cream for added relief
• PRE-WORKOUT? Rub into feet (then put socks on) or particular sore spots before working out
• A BETTER NIGHTS' SLEEP? Rub into feet before bed or during the night

You get the picture. It's super simple. Use it ANY TIME you want quick relief.

Again, the vast majority of us are magnesium deficient and while there are fabulous foods and supplements that can help, topical versions can add another uptake point and be just as beneficial and, for some, might be a better option.

So there you have it! That's my take on magnesium oil and cream.

I hope you'll check it out for yourself and please take advantage of the ingredient list under the "Community Plans" tab and whatever else you need at Fullscript with your free account and an automatic 15% discount.

Of course, please drop a message below if there's anything else I can help you with.

Cheers to you and more relaxed, pain-free living,

~Cheryl

**This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, treat or cure any condition. Please research this information yourself and/or consult your trusted healthcare professional before adding to or changing your self-care protocol.