NEW YEAR, BETTER YOU

With a new year (and a new decade) upon us, we all find ourselves caught in the fray of adjusting to all things “new” . Whether it’s getting used to writing a new date or taking action on a new year’s resolution, starting a new year can feel like a clean slate and an opportunity to be a better you!

The hardest part is that most changes made are dependent on one’s ability to commit. We all know that New Year’s resolutions are famous for being easy to make and hard to keep. We say we'll go to the gym, but end up just swiping our cards for the free parking. We also say we'll make healthier food choices and more wholesome meals, but end up calling on Uber eats or Mr Delivery to kill our cravings (we see you in the back.)

Here at Hughes Chiropractic, we want you to smash 2020’s resolutions, so we have compiled some tips to get you through the year, and to help make 2020 the year for a better healthier you!

1. See a Chiropractor (we had to sneak this in.)

You may feel ready to take on regular exercise, but seeing your Chiropractor before starting a new fitness routine may help you avoid any serious injury. A new physical activity could aggravate an un-diagnosed condition or untreated back problem, leading to pain or serious illness/injury. A properly aligned spine improves your balance and stability—two important keys to avoiding injury during exercise. Regular chiropractic care will help keep your spine healthy as you work to make the rest of your body that way. Your Chiropractor can advise you on the types and amounts of exercise that are appropriate for you.

2. Make exercise fun.

Yes, it is boring to run around the same track, or swimming the same length every day. But boredom isn’t the only reason to try a variety of activities. Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are caused by the overuse of a specific set of muscles. For example, tendinitis of the forearm, also known as “tennis elbow,” can be caused by swinging a racket over and over. Participating in a variety of activities allows muscle groups to rest without the need to skip exercise all together. At Hughes Chiropractic we can treat RSI through Hypervolt massage therapy, Dry Needling and joint manipulation.

3. Make healthier food choices.

A petrol car cannot run on diesel. So why are you putting high fats, high carbohydrates and foods that lack overall nutritional benefit into your body if it can’t use it? Look for meals that are well balanced, high in protein and are filling to avoid the urge to binge later on.

4. Warm it up.

It only takes a few minutes at the beginning and end of your workout to significantly decrease the chances of injury and post-workout muscle soreness. By stretching or starting off with a light jog you are increasing the blood supply to the major muscle groups and preparing it to do work. You will also find you will be able to get more out of that muscle group by making sure its warm before you exercise.

5. Stay positive

It is so easy to fall back into our “normal” routines, but stay committed. Set realistic goals that you are able to reach to keep you motivated throughout the year. Find a friend or buddy that can keep you accountable through the tough times. Remember, This resolution isn’t meant to end after three months, instead it is supposed to become part of your lifestyle, your day to day choices and activity so be sure to make it something that is maintainable and realistic.

And remember to make 2020 the year you look after your spine!

Cheers,

Team Hughes Chiropractic

(Blog post is written from a combination of my experiences and the various research I have read over time).