Kristin Smith, L.M.P. 

Abbey Van Der Meij LMP

Jennifer Watters, L.M.P.

Tips to Help During the Healing Process

Laugh. Research has shown that a key to living long is to live happy. Attitude is hugely important, and the best attitude comes from living with joy in your heart. Surround yourself with family, friends, books and music. Treasure and enjoy the gift that is your life. Learn from your mistakes and make every day count.

Lighten your load. A body in pain, a sick body, may well be a body overcome by tension. Give yourself time to think, time to reflect, time to heal. Remember, in your struggle to achieve a better tomorrow, today is all you really have.

Write about it. Keeping a daily journal makes you stop and think. It can help you to understand yourself better and to grow, and that encourages healing.

Listen to your body. Illness is a normal response a healthy body makes to an unhealthy situation. It's a signal that something in your life needs to be changed.

Be patient. Keep your chiropractic appointments. Each adjustment builds on the previous one, so it is essential to maintain the schedule your chiropractor prescribes for you.

Your body was designed to move.Healing for our bodies requires strong and supple muscles, and a heart and lungs that can send vital nutrients and oxygen to every single cell. Exercise - which is just another word for moving - is essential.

Your chiropractor will recommend stretches and exercises to complement your treatment, but good health requires a permanent commitment to making your body move. Massage can assist your body in helping you stay flexible and able to move. Massage can relieve tension and stress allowing the body to function normally.

Healing takes energy, most of our body's healing takes place during sleep. You must get a good night's sleep, and rest when you're really tired. Good massage can help you relax and sleep better at night.

Your body also needs proper nutrition to heal and stay healthy. You may need nutritional supplements, which your chiropractor may prescribe, but you definitely need good, wholesome food, eaten calmly and regularly. Avoid foods that are preserved, packaged, or unnatural. Read labels and avoid those that contain chemicals, as well as fatty, salty, or sugary junk foods and excessive amounts of tea, coffee, colas, or alcohol. Learn to appreciate the taste of foods and drinks that are as close to their natural state as possible such as spring water, juices, fresh fruits and vegetables.