Simple Moves to Take Care in a Chaotic World
By Sandy Schroeder
As we look around and see normal routines turned upside down, it's easy to become frustrated and anxious. As we look at the challenges, most of us need some counterpoints to help us retain our balance.
WellAndGood.com. came up with some ways to return to the basics to help us function and thrive. See what you think of these.
Get a more healthy menu - A strong immune system is important and nutrient dense foods are essential. Spend a little time at your local farmers market and fresh fish market to put healthy unprocessed foods on your table. Use sites such as Epicurious.com to find new recipes and then pick your family's favorites. Broccoli and kale help the body fight inflammation while Brazil nuts boost the immune system. Help yourself to fruits, nuts, beans, seeds and vegetables, health oils such as olive oil, and lean meats, poultry, and fresh fish.
Get rid of stress - In a chaotic world, reducing stress is more crucial than ever. To replace face-to-face time with friends or family, stay in touch with calls, texts, emails and good old-fashioned cards and letters. At the same time, consider new ways to mellow out, such as meditation, deep breathing, and at-home exercise with treadmills, stationary bikes and yoga mats. Hobbies may come to your rescue too. Plant an herb garden, rethink the color schemes in your home, or learn to play the piano or guitar. Sketching, doodling, or keeping a journal may work too. Solo walks in a nearby park or in your neighborhood may help you get needed exercise and keep your perspective.
Deep breathing may become a refuge too - When you feel yourself tensing up or giving up, step away to find a quiet spot. Sit down, close your eyes and inhale for six counts. Then exhale for four counts. As your body relaxes and your thoughts slow down, you may feel a new sense of balance. Just keep looking until you find the right choices for you.
Get moving and keep moving - Intersperse simple stretching exercises with computer time. Consider an early morning or late evening yoga session, and add some weights and exercise equipment to your family room. The more you move, the healthier your immune system may be, and the less stress you will feel.
Get enough rest - When you make 7-9 hours of sleep a priority, your mind and body will benefit. Set a regular bedtime and make your bedroom a sleep refuge. Use blackout drapes to shut out light, and air filters to cleanse the air and screen out noise. Skip spicy foods, electronics, alcohol, and smoking at least two hours before bedtime.
If these tools work for you, make them a habit to boost your health, mood and daily routines.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lakewood, Calif.