Put Your Focus on Ideal Health
By Donna Stark
It certainly is ideal to have ideal conditions when you want to start a new habit, but as we all know, life isn't perfect and neither are the days of our weeks. So, don't push your health aside simply because you are waiting for the clouds to part so you can head outdoors for some exercise or the chance to leave work early so you can go shopping for a new desk chair. If you need a sign that you should take a step toward better health, here it is! Forget the ideal conditions. Let's focus on ideal health instead!
A Healthy Spine First
It's important to pay attention to your daily habits and the effects they can have on your overall well-being, and a good place to start is with your spine! Did you know that good health begins with a healthy spine? No? Well, it's true! You see, the nervous system controls and supports the function of the body's organs and major systems. It also improves mental efficiency, physical performance, sleep, and moods. There isn't any movement the body makes that doesn't require input from the nervous system, so the healthier the nervous system is, the healthier your body is. But what does that have to do with the spine? Glad you asked! Your spine is the thing that protects the nervous system. So, if the spine is compromised, your nervous system will be, and if the nervous system isn't functioning as it should, neither will your body.
Spine-Healthy Tips
Now that you know why the health of your spine is so important, let's go over some spine-healthy habits that you can easily incorporate into your days.
- Practice correct posture - Try to maintain correct posture while you are sitting, standing, and even sleeping. This may mean you will need to invest in ergonomic furniture, supportive shoes, and a quality mattress.
- Take plenty of breaks - In addition to taking breaks from sitting too long, you should also take plenty of breaks from your electronic devices. Looking down at your phone, laptop, or tablet can put a tremendous amount of strain on your spine.
- Exercise and stretch daily - Exercising at least 30 minutes and stretching every day will help alleviate pain, restore joint function, ease muscle tension, and improve mobility of the spine.
Ideal Health Is the Goal
Don't sit around waiting for the ideal conditions before you start thinking about your spinal health. Instead, try to incorporate the tips above into your daily routine and see your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic regularly. Remember, ideal health, not ideal conditions, is the goal you are striving for!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sunset Hills, Mo.