Back to School, Back to Health

by Dr. Andrew T. Brady, Chiropractic Physician

The start of a new school year is a great time to make lifestyle changes to improve your health and the health of your family. The responsibilities that come with the start of a new year can be daunting, especially for parents juggling multiple kids’ school and activity schedules. Take a few minutes to get yourself out of summer mode and prepared for the months ahead. Think of this as a time to feel inspired, rather than overwhelmed.

Did you know that people who make lists and schedules actually find that they have more time, not less, to devote to the things that are important to them? As you plan your upcoming weeks and months, schedule time to take care of yourself and your family. You’ll be more likely to stick to that ambitious 6 a.m. workout plan if you have it on your calendar and can cross it off when you finish. Consider blocking an hour each weekend to meal plan, grocery shop, or even prepare some healthy dinners or lunches in advance. Maybe freeze some ready-to-blend smoothie bags to toss in the blender and hand your teenagers as they zoom past on hectic mornings. Schedule a few family dinners when everyone’s schedules align – even if it’s just for 20 minutes – and make a point to sit down together. Pencil in weekend activities that get everyone outside and moving like hikes, bike rides, or walking around local markets or fall festivals.

Set some realistic health goals and benchmarks to meet them. It’s a great time of year to create a new rhythm and routine; that might mean removing some activities or commitments from your calendar to make room for things that really matter to you, too! What health and wellness goals have you been putting off? Add those things to your back-to-school lists.

If you feel that you need help in doing so, I wanted to personally invite you to our office on Monday, Sept. 30, at 6:30 p.m. for dinner and light refreshments followed by a 30-minute presentation on stress. We will be discussing the different forms of stress, how they cause sickness and disease, and how to identify and eliminate stress load in order to prevent sickness and disease and achieve optimal health. Please RSVP by calling 234-284-8002 or by visiting our website, www.SpineIntegrativeWellness.com. Seats are limited. We look forward to seeing you there!

Spine Integrative Wellness Article – Back to School | (234) 284-8002