GOOD HABITS/Bad Habits

Bad habits---easy: smoking, drinking, biting your fingernails, taking illicit drugs, smacking gum, saying "uh" when you speak. OK enough, let's talk about some GOOD DAILY HABITS for a long healthy life. According to the WELLNESS EXPRESS written by Dr Marty Hughes there are 5 daily habits that will help you have lifelong health. The earlier you develop these habits the better. They will help you avoid serious chronic diseases and make it easier to live your latter years with more independence. #1. Food: not prepackaged, stick with whole foods. These foods contain fiber, antioxidants and phytochemicals that can improve health. Whole and unrefined foods can help improve your cholesterol levels help with colon function. Here are some examples: dark green, yellow, and orange fleshed fruits and vegetables. Also, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. #2. You have to exercise. Do something over and above your normal routine at least 3 days per week. Get your heart pumping. This will help you burn calories, decrease your weight and increase your energy level as well as lighten your mood. Here are some examples: yoga, tai chi, Pilates, walking, running, strength training and swimming. #3. Drink lots of water. At least 1/2 gallon per day. Water helps to flush toxins from the organs, keeps ears, nose and throat moist, and just overall keeps you hydrated. De hydration causes fatigue. #4. Breathe. Boy that sounds simple doesn't it? Well I think Dr Hughes means is "relaxed" breathing to help control stress. There are several breathing techniques that you can do a Google search on. But a simple way is to periodically take 8-10 slow deep breaths several times per day. Stop and sit quietly in your chair, rest your hands palm up in your lap, close your eyes and just simply begin to breathe in and out very slowly for about 5 minutes-almost to a point of getting sleepy. Do this about every 3-4 hours. You'll be amazed often restful feeling you get and how much energy you'll generate. #5. Social bonding. Work hard to build strong loving relationships with family, friends, relatives and co-workers. Encourage and be encouraged. Belong. AND as always keep up with regular chiropractic check ups and just give me a chance to help.