The magic of the holidays is upon us! So many festive outings, great food, time with friends and family, and a chance to rest and enjoy some well-deserved time off. Like most Americans, you’re probably considering some resolutions for 2020, and chances are these include some health-related goals.
Your family at Curis is here to help! We have some of the top experts in chiropractic, counseling, and nutrition ready to help you make this your best year ever. Here are some of the common Grinches looking to steal your Christmas this year, and a simple, easy idea or two to help you make the most of this season:
Stress
We shop, party, travel, decorate, cook, and play hard during this next month. All this can take a toll on our body’s adrenal and immune system, because it’s continuously in a “fight or flight” mode. The chiropractic adjustment restores balance with the “rest and digest” part of our nervous system[1]– and who doesn’t want a little improved digestion this time of year? Choose to reduce and simplify, and for everything else, make sure you are following your chiropractic care to keep that stress level in check.
Sitting
Between all the merrymaking, we all like to curl up with a blanket and watch a Hallmark movie or seven. Take time to stretch or move and stick with your exercise routine. Your body will thank you! Also- sitting with your ankle over one knee may feel comfy and cozy until you stand up. Instead, sit cross-legged, or cross your legs at the ankles to avoid low back or hip pain[2]. If you’re driving or flying for long periods of time, make sure your car seat is ergonomically adjusted for ideal safety and comfort, and take time to stretch, walk, and breathe. Your Curis chiropractor can help!
Snacking
So many gatherings revolve around food this time of year, and it’s tempting to overindulge. Some sweets are fine, but everything in moderation. Alcohol, dairy, sugar, and dairy can all add to our inflammation levels, making us more sensitive to pain[3]. Remember to drink lots of water, choose smaller portions, and try to fill up on the healthy first before the visions of sugar plums dance in your head. Enjoy the treats, but just be sensible. You can also try some new things to do instead of eating.
Sickness
It seems like everyone is fighting off a cough, a head cold, or a stomach bug. During winter months, our exposure to sunshine dips, lowering our production of active Vitamin D levels, a crucial hormone in activating our immune system. Did you know that in addition to getting Vitamin D, a chiropractic adjustment can DOUBLE the number of circulating white blood cells[4]? Research is uncovering incredible evidence of how your nervous system runs your immune response, and a great way to keep from getting sick is to ensure your body is communicating optimally with itself!
While the rest of the world is downing Thera-Flu, unwrapping the latest back pain gadget, or summoning the will to hit the gym for some 2020 gains, you can take the proactive approach to your health, and schedule a visit with your Curis provider today! Whether for yourself or a loved one, the gift of health is priceless, and it allows you to enjoy everything else about the happiest time of the year. On behalf of all your Curis Functional Health team, thank you for entrusting us with your care!
Dr. Kaleb Valdez is a chiropractic provider in the Curis Flower Mound location. He loves Christmas and chiropractic.
