Chiropractic Considerations for the Holidays
By Brandi Goodman
The impending holiday season is something many people have to significantly prepare to handle. There are decorations to hang, lights to untangle, gifts to buy, food to purchase and make, and many more tasks to accomplish. While you're tackling this giant to-do list, be sure to keep chiropractic considerations in mind for your own well-being.
Take Breaks Often
Whether you're out holiday shopping, hanging decorations, or tending to other tasks, always take breaks often. You don't want to overexert yourself and end up in pain because you pushed your body too far. Stopping to put bags in the car before you make more purchases is one option. You can also stretch and sit for a while before continuing your decorating. Just be sure you're spreading out your to-do list and not trying to accomplish everything at once.
Plan Your Travel Time
Many people travel during the holidays. Whether you're heading home for Christmas or simply going on a vacation, the ride there can be hard on your body. No matter if you take a plane, train, or car, you should bring along a neck pillow for more comfortable sleeping, as well as a lumbar support cushion to keep your spine supported and free from stiffness.
Stand While Wrapping
Hunching over your holiday gifts while you attempt to wrap can leave you in more discomfort than any other of the other tasks you managed. It's best to stand at a table or countertop while wrapping so you can avoid slouching over and hurting your back. Keep all your supplies in close reach so you don't have to twist and reach far for them in the process.
Give Yourself the Gift of Chiropractic
Make sure to give a gift to yourself while you're shopping for others. That gift should be a trip to the chiropractor. All of the work you're putting in for the holidays can quickly take its toll on your mind and body. Stress is a serious matter, and you want to do what you can to combat it. Chiropractic care can help to ease discomfort your body is feeling and help relieve stress so you don't have that tension in your shoulders.
The holidays should be a joyous time, but someone has to accomplish tasks for the season to be so wonderful. Just be sure you're being careful with all you're accomplishing and take it easy when necessary. You want to be able to enjoy all your hard work when it's finished rather than be laid up in bed because of a mishap. Visit The Joint Chiropractic for an adjustment and some time away so you can make the most of the holidays.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.