incline (unlike outdoor walking).
READ: Walking For Health
3. Yoga
Stress can be a sickle cell pain trigger and the practice of yoga is proven to relieve stress in the mind, body and spirit.
Learning to breathe properly is a large part of the yoga practice and the increased oxygen intake helps the circulation of blood.
Bikram “hot yoga” may be all the craze, but it is NOT for you if you have sickle cell. Stick to a gentle flow like yin yoga, restorative yoga or hatha.
READ: 6 Reasons You Should Try Yoga
4. Swimming/Water aerobics (heated)
Cold air and cold water is shocking to the body and can bring on an SCD pain crisis.
However, even with sickle cell you can enjoy the benefits of low-impact water aerobics and swimming in an indoor heated pool.
Before entering the pool, take a warm shower to avoid a sudden change in body temperature that can bring on a pain episode. Wrap yourself in a towel immediately after getting out of the pool.
READ: Disabled? You Can Still Exercise!
Remember to rest when you feel tired and always consult with your doctor first before starting or changing your fitness regimen.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Sickle Cell Anemia center for more.