"The only real education comes from what goes counter to you."

Andre Gide

Unfortunately, due to the intermittent nature of information on the internet some links provided within the body of our newsletters may no longer be functioning. We apologize for the inconvenience.

February 2005

Thanks to all of those who turned out for our Patient Appreciation Pool and Pizza Party! 

Contents

1. A Foundational Piece
2. Question of the Month
3. Fitness Corner
4. Health News
5. Office Happenings

A Foundational Piece

For many people who want to improve their health, finding a place to start can be confusing. Should they go on a diet, buy some exercise equipment or a gym membership, start taking supplements or get more rest? All of these are good starting points. Taking care of your spine and nervous system is often overlooked but is an integral part of your ongoing health. In fact, it’s a foundational piece of your health and wellness.

Why is it important to have a healthy spine and nervous system? It’s because the nervous system (brain, spinal cord and the nerves that leave from there) is the master controller of the body. It directs, organizes and coordinates all the functions of the body. It controls everything that goes on in your body. How does your heart know when and how fast to beat? How does your stomach know how to digest what is inside of it? How do your muscles know when and how hard to contract? All of these functions are directly influenced by the nervous system.

What does this mean for someone who is actively seeking better health? Go see your chiropractor. It will enhance all the other good habits that you already have in place. For your stomach to digest the good food and supplements you are taking, the nervous system needs to be healthy. To get the most out of your workouts, to have the muscles respond properly to the demands you place on them, the nervous system needs to the healthy. What is the easiest way to keep your nervous system healthy? Get and keep your spine well aligned and strong with regular visits to your chiropractor.

On your journey to be healthier, consider chiropractic care as a foundational piece of your program. It doesn’t take the place of exercise, nutrition and supplements, drinking water or adequate rest. It does improve the benefits you will receive from them. Get started today!

Question of the Month

Would I benefit from regular chiropractic care even if my back doesn't hurt? 

Absolutely! Taking care of your spine on a regular basis whether you have symptoms or not offers tremendous benefits. The spine contains your lifeline, the nervous system. The nervous system connects the brain to the body and over it travels the intelligent information that makes you alive. By maintaining a healthy spine through chiropractic care you minimize how much nerve interference exists throughout the nervous system. Nerve interference, which is not always painful, disrupts the communication between the brain and body. It doesn't allow you to be as healthy as you could be. With a strong spine and nervous system, you heal faster, work better and enjoy a higher quality of life. Consult a chiropractor today! 

Fitness Corner

Scott McDermott’s free monthly newsletter is a great resource for anyone who wants to lead a healthier life. To sign up for it, send an email to mybestbody@shaw.ca and tell him you want to subscribe. There are always lots of helpful tips and topics to get your wheels turning.

Health News

Chronic back pain can shrink your brain

Chronic back pain can shrink your brain according to a study recently published in the Journal of Neurosciences (November 2004) www.neuroscience.org. The study identified a 5 to 11 per cent loss in brain matter among chronic back pain sufferers compared to the control group. Brain damage was found to increase as the duration of pain increased. 

I know some men may make this as an excuse for their actions but this demonstrates a very important point. Your brain, spinal cord and nerves are all connected. If you affect one you affect the other. If the spine puts tension on your nervous system, it also impacts your brain. By keeping your spine healthy, it keeps your brain healthy and the rest of you healthy as well. Get your spine checked!!!

Another Great Resource

Rob Cooper puts out a monthly E-zine that gives you health tips and discusses topics that can get you on the road to a healthier you. Visit his website, www.formerfatguy.com and sign up for his newsletter. Rob is someone who knows from what he speaks. He has lost over 300 lbs and now helps people make healthier choices in their lives.

Office Happenings

1. Scan Month. During February, update scans are a $15 donation to the Red Cross/Tsunami Relief. So if you haven’t had a scan for a while or you would like an update, contact Carol to schedule a time. It’s a great way of seeing where you are at on your journey to a healthier you!

2. Wellness Orientation Workshops. If someone were to ask me what the most important part of their care is, I would say attending one of the workshops. It answers questions and turns on a lot of “light bulbs” so people can receive the most out of their care. Join us for one of our Wellness Orientation Workshops (W.O.W.’s) in February. The dates are Monday February 7 and Wednesday February 23 and they start at 5:30 p.m. here at the office.

3. Office Closings. The office will be closed Monday February 21 for Family Day. Sorry for any inconvenience.

4. The Amazing Race. Watch for details coming soon for a fun way to create health and wellness habits for you and your family!