Bottom Line:
Our bodies are designed to be healthy – to exist in a state of optimal function better known as homeostasis. During the holidays, heightened stress can wreak havoc on our nervous system, leaving us feeling tired and worn down. The good news is, you can stay happy and healthy and feeling great this holiday season by integrating a few simple holiday stress busters into your routine, and while you can’t eliminate every source of stress in your life (and nor should you), a few smart decisions can help manage that extra stress and reduce your chances of getting sick.
Why it Matters:
Each year, millions of people get sick before, during, or after the holidays, and the most common culprit for all this illness is STRESS. When your body is stressed, it doesn’t recover very well, and you are more likely to become sick. Not only could you experience more aches and pains, but you may also experience mental fatigue. Luckily, you’re in the right place. New research tells us that just like eating well and getting enough sleep, Chiropractic adjustments can go a long way towards positively influencing your stress levels by reducing your muscle tension so that you can feel better both during the holiday season and into the new year.
Many people carry their stress in their neck and shoulders. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to decrease muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. Research has shown people experience less stress after receiving Chiropractic care.
Action Steps:
eat well
get enough rest
exercise
Chiropractic care
Ok, so some of that was a little vague. Eat well? Confusing subject at the moment right? Start with cutting out processed foods. Reduce your soft drink intake. Look at your portion sizes. Concentrate on eating a good amount of vegetables. Seek help if you need specific dietary advice.
Exercise. If you're not currently exercising, especially if you are in a sedentary job, this is an important step. What to do though? Any thing. Just get started. Go for walks. Try some body weight exercises. Check Youtube for some yoga or pilates sequences. Check out a local gym or movement studio, go to a boxing class. It doesn't matter, just take some positive steps.
This way you can bust your stress levels and reduce your chance of getting sick this holiday season. You’ll feel better, more energised and experience a happier and healthier holiday, helping you do more of what you love with the people you love. That’s what it’s all about, and we’re here to help!
Give us a call to schedule your next adjustment, also be sure to check out our brand new movement class and BFR training for peak performance and rehab – you’ll be glad you did! Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
Science Source:
Cerebral metabolic changes in men after chiropractic spinal manipulation for neck pain. Alternative therapies in health and medicine. November 2011
Glucose Metabolic Changes in the Brain and Muscles of Patients with Nonspecific Neck Pain Treated by Spinal Manipulation Therapy. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Volume 2017