Chiropractic Help for Holiday Stress

The holiday season has officially started, and many Burnsville, MN residents are feeling the pressure from the need to shop, travel, decorate, eat, entertain and celebrate. All that stress can lead to fatigue, poor nutrition, illness and other body stressors. Your chiropractor can help your body deal with the holidays and for a healthier and happier season.

Both perceived and physical stress can trigger a flight or fight response leading to a physical reaction on the body. Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension, contraction and nerve irritation. Your chiropractor takes care of your spine, where all nerve impulses travel. Regular adjustments will keep your spine aligned and allow for proper spine and muscle alignment.

Recommendations to Help with Holiday Stress -

• Exercise- A good shopping day should be treated like physical workout. Keeping your body strong, will help you deal with the added workout. Additionally, physical activity increases blood flow, breathing and your metabolism.
• Eat well – a balanced diet will help your body fight the many illnesses and maintain proper balance. Consider increasing protein intake for added energy. Spices like pepper, cinnamon and ginger add a warming feeling. Onions and garlic are natural antibiotics, which will help you fight colds and other infections.
• De-stress techniques – Take time for you. Consider adding distressing techniques like meditation, yoga, a soothing bath, a relaxing tea or just reading a book.

The physical pain of the holidays may be from the overall stress or certain physical activities like shopping, wrapping gifts or shoveling snow. It is important to consider –

• Take breaks from any activity to allow your body periodic rest time.
• Consider your posture. For example, when wrapping gifts, don’t sit on a hard floor in an awkward position.
• Stretch. Stretching after any physical activity helps you balance the pull and strain on your muscles.

It is important to take care of yourself during the holidays, so you can fully enjoy the time with family and friends

Happy Holidays!

Photo Credit: © Vitanovski | Dreamstime.com - Holiday Stress Photo