What Is Inflammation + How to Keep It in Check

Because chronic pain, fatigue, and fog? So not the vibe.

You’ve probably heard the word inflammation tossed around a lot, especially in wellness circles. It's blamed for everything from joint pain and brain fog to bloating and skin flare-ups. But what actually is it? And how can you keep it from running the show?

Let’s break it down, simply and clearly, no med school required.

What Is Inflammation?

Inflammation is your body’s natural defense system. When you get a cut or catch a bug, your immune system sends out its superhero crew, white blood cells, cytokines, and other responders, to heal and protect you. This is called acute inflammation, and it’s a good thing.

But when that same system gets stuck in the “on” position, firing when there’s no real threat, it turns into chronic inflammation. And that’s when things start going sideways.

Chronic inflammation can silently simmer for months or even years, messing with everything from your metabolism and digestion to your mood and immune health.

 Common Signs of Chronic Inflammation

• Fatigue or low energy

• Stubborn weight gain or puffiness

• Digestive issues (bloating, irregularity)

• Frequent infections or slow healing

• Brain fog or mood swings

• Joint or muscle aches without injury

You don’t have to have all the signs to be inflamed. Even one or two can be your body’s SOS signal that something’s off balance.

 What Causes It?

Several things can trigger or fuel chronic inflammation, including:

• Processed foods high in sugar, refined oils, and additives

• Long-term stress (yep, even if you think you’re “handling it”)

• Poor sleep or sleep deprivation

• Sedentary lifestyle (especially if you sit all day)

• Environmental toxins (pollution, mold, plastics, etc.)

• Smoking, alcohol, or certain medications

• Underlying conditions (like autoimmune diseases or gut issues)

The good news? You can do a lot to calm the fire naturally.

How to Keep Inflammation in Check

1. Eat More Whole, Colorful Foods

Think fruits, veggies, leafy greens, wild-caught fish, nuts, and healthy fats like olive oil and avocado. The more natural color on your plate, the better.

2. Get Moving (Without Overdoing It)

Gentle, consistent movement helps flush toxins and reduce inflammatory markers. Walking, yoga, strength training, and sauna sessions (hello, infrared!) are all great options.

3. Sleep Like You Mean It

Aim for 7–9 hours. Your body does major repair work overnight, including calming inflammation. If you’re skimping on rest, your immune system starts to short-circuit.

4. Stress Less (Or At Least Manage It Better)

Breathwork, salt therapy, infrared sauna, journaling, or simply stepping outside for fresh air can do wonders. Chronic stress = chronic inflammation.

5. Support Your Gut

A healthy gut means a healthier immune system. Add fermented foods, prebiotics, and fiber to your routine, or work with a holistic practitioner to find your balance.

Try Infrared Sauna for Inflammation Support

Studies show infrared therapy can reduce inflammation by increasing circulation, triggering heat shock proteins (your body’s repair crew), and flushing toxins through sweat. It’s a safe, non-invasive way to support your body’s natural healing process, especially when done consistently.

Inflammation isn’t the enemy—it’s your body trying to protect you. But when that protection becomes overzealous, it’s time to reset the system. With simple, consistent lifestyle shifts, you can help your body cool the fire and feel your best—mentally, physically, and emotionally.

You were not made to run on burnout, bloat, and brain fog.

💋Roxie Rewind

(Cool it, baby—you’ve got this.)