How I LOVE China Gel

Have you ever wondered what that lotion is that some teachers and studios like to rub on the students?

When I first started practicing yoga and a teacher would walk by and put lotion on me or a neighboring person I was a bit confused, and did not understand why, BUT, I have to admit that I LOVED the sensation and the smell. Over time, I longed for the teacher to stop by me during class or especially during savasana (final relaxation pose) with some of the good stuff!

This also brings up another thing...who doesn't love hands on assists and adjustments in class? There is something very comforting and nurturing about an assist in class (if done appropriately by an experienced teacher), especially during savasana after a long intensive practice.  I like many, in the beginning was very distracted and self conscious when teachers would adjust or assist me in the beginning thinking that I was doing something 'wrong'. However, I've come to learn and realize many assists are more the nurturing and guiding type to help one go 'deeper' into a pose.

So...back to how I LOVE China Gel. It's heavily used in the yoga world...and I mostly think because it just feels good, but China Gel's website put this into much better words:

"China-Gel can help to reduce the soreness and injury pain between classes....It simulates the body's endorphin response to pain and reduces the pain - producing P factor in muscle tissue, thereby lessening pain and discomfort, and enhancing healing. The deep penetrating effect offers long lasting cool-to-warm soothing relief. Use China-Gel before your practice to loosen up sore muscles as a complement to your warm up. Then, depending on practice and preference, teachers often apply China-Gel during Savasana for a delightful effect. Definitely use China-Gel after to treat sore muscles, aching joints, or any nagging injuries."

Some interesting anecdotes:
* Don't rub your face ...yes, I've done this and it does sting the eyes
* China Gel is an essential aspect of Jivamukti classes (they refer to it as Hot Sauce)
* China-Gel is a blend of seven herbal ingredients: MENTHOL, CAMPHOR, GINSENG EXTRACT, ANGELICA EXTRACT, LAVENDER OIL, ALOE VERA ,and WITCH HAZEL.

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Inspiration for this post is because one of my first ever yoga students recently visited Thailand and brought back  a cute little jar of Tiger Balm...which she said when she smelled it reminded her of our yoga classes and of course the triggering effect of relaxation. Thank you for the super cute gift!