Many of our patients come to see the providers at Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab to address a specific pain symptom such as back pain, neck pain or headaches. While we will address each patient’s specific condition with chiropractic care, we often find it helpful to “coach” our patients towards achieving a healthier lifestyle. For example, there may be certain activities that you should avoid or do differently to prevent yourself from unintentionally aggravating your particular health challenges. The goal of including lifestyle advice with a chiropractic care plan is to help each and every patient achieve the fulfilling and happy lifestyle they deserve, one that is full of the activities that are enjoyed most. We recognize that every single one of our patients is a whole person, and we use our expertise to help them reach total health and wellness.
Advice on Living a Healthier Lifestyle from a Chiropractor
As a chiropractor will tell you as part of the lifestyle advice they offer, a healthy lifestyle leads to a happier life. However, making the necessary lifestyle changes can be challenging, and that’s why we have compiled a list of practical advice to help you live a healthier life. This list includes five key areas that you can improve on, covering everything from exercise to nutrition, but for more comprehensive, tailored advice contact Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic for help.
Get Enough Sleep:
Getting enough sleep is crucial to maintaining optimal physical and mental health. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. To improve your sleep quality, try sticking to a regular sleep schedule, winding down before bedtime, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine. Besides long term health effects, getting enough sleep will help you better function on the daily.
Exercise Regularly:
Physical activity is an integral component of a healthy lifestyle. Exercising regularly can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and relieve stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, five days a week. You do not need to do intensive exercise all the time, even just walking regularly is good. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and not overdo it. Consult with your chiropractor for lifestyle advice if you have any concerns about what exercises to do.
Eat a Balanced Diet:
Eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help you meet your nutritional needs, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Try to make half of your plate fruits and vegetables, and choose whole grains instead of refined grains. It’s also essential to include sources of lean protein and healthy fats in your diet. Consult with an expert as to what sort of portions you should prepare based on your body goals.
Manage Stress:
Stress is a normal part of life, but chronic stress can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is crucial to living a healthy lifestyle. Some effective stress management techniques include practicing mindfulness, enjoying hobbies, and connecting with loved ones. As a chiropractor, we recommend getting a massage or acupuncture to help relieve some of the tension. It is important to find something you can do every day to maintain stress levels.
Take Care of Your Spine:
Protecting your spine through proper posture and spinal alignment is crucial to living a healthy lifestyle. Try to maintain good posture throughout the day, whether you’re sitting or standing. Avoiding prolonged sitting, lifting heavy objects with your legs, and making regular chiropractic appointments for adjustments are key to maintaining a healthy spine. Ask a healthcare professional for recommendations on potential tools that you can use as well to help with posture.
Living a healthy lifestyle is essential to maintaining a happy and fulfilling life. By following the advice above, you can make small changes that can have a significant impact on your health and well-being. Remember that change takes time and effort, so be patient with yourself and stay committed to your goals. If you want a more customized treatment plan, contact a chiropractor for specific lifestyle advice at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic.