As joyous as Christmas can be, everyone knows all too well that it can be one of the most frantic periods of the year. Hours to be spent in crowded shopping centres buying presents for loved ones, trees removed from the garage and decorated, lights strung across roofs, food sourced, cooked, and served, dishes and homes to be cleaned. This list is never-ending.
In busy periods, one’s health can be placed on the back burner as your mind is occupied by whatever else needs doing. Many of us can slump back into unhealthy habits: slouching, not drinking enough water, sleeping and exercising less, and allowing the stress of the holidays to get to us.
All this is to say – it is important to remember to care for yourself during the festive period. Can you really buy into the Christmas cheer if your lower back’s sore?
As we edge closer to the festive period, here are some fantastic tips to ensure your spinal health remains exceptional even as your schedule fills up.
- Stretch: It may seem like a small and simple act, but taking a moment each day to stretch can have immense benefits. Set aside a few minutes each day to stretch – it helps maintain correct posture, supports a healthy spine, and keeps your mind refreshed. To make it even easier, try downloading the ACA’s Straighten Up app, which features a simple 3-minute exercise program designed to improve spinal health, stabilise core muscles, and enhance overall wellbeing. Download it for free from the App Store or Google Play today!
- Lift Smart: Moving furniture around to squeeze more people into your home? Picking up a large gift for a loved one? Carrying several heavy bags on each arm at the mall? Remember, bending your knees and keeping the items close to your body helps avoid injury.
- Decorate Together: A foundational element of every Christmas period is decorating. It’s a wonderful time of celebration and collaboration between parents and children. Reduce the burden and spread the cheer by getting a family member or two to help you decorate!
- Shop Smarter: In today’s world, not all shopping has to be done in person. To reduce the strain of hours spent wandering through crowded malls and sitting in heavy car park traffic, try ordering gifts online instead.
- Check Your Posture: Christmas requires your body to twist in unnatural positions. You could be wrapping presents at the dining table or bending over your kitchen bench to cook. Regardless, it’s important to remain mindful of keeping your back straight and avoid slouching. Your back will thank you!
- Manage Your Stress: There are lots of moving parts that make Christmas both special and stressful. It’s important to implement stress management techniques, including meditation or breathing exercises, into your routine.
- Stay Hydrated: This tip is as important during Christmas as it is every other week of the year. On average, it’s recommended you drink between 2-4 litres of water per day.
- Exercise Regularly: Even with a loaded schedule, it’s important to take time out of your day to exercise. It doesn’t have to be strenuous; a simple afternoon walk or playing with your kids in the backyard suffices. It’s all about stretching your legs, getting some fresh air, and leaving the busyness behind for a little while.
- Get Restful Sleep: One of the most important things you can do for your health is sleep well. Make sure your mattress and pillow support your spine!
- Consult A Chiro: Don’t wait for the new year to prioritise your health! Book an appointment with us at Michael & David Black Chiropractic Group clinics in Doncaster and Armadale and give your spine the care it deserves this festive season!
In amongst the chaos and joy of this festive season, don’t relegate your spine to an afterthought. Make sure it gets the care it deserves this Christmas!
We wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Ds Michael & David Black at Manningham Road Chiropractic Centre and Armadale Chiropractic Centre. Call 9509 7691.
