Christmastime is here

Merry Christmas! I hope this article finds you before you rush to do any last minute holiday errands. While Christmastime is a magical time of year it can also be stressful depending on how much running around you have to do. I’m blessed with having a big family and two adorable sons so this time of year always involves a lot of running around visiting with loved ones. I personally have to remind myself to slow down and relax as stress can increase cortisol and inflammation in our bodies leading to pain and even tanking our immune system which can lead to the common cold. Taking time to put your feet up and relax by the fire truly can do wonders for your overall health. Or relaxing by the fire and doing some light stretching and deep breathing. 


If you only remember one thing - this is my number one piece of advice during the holidays. If you find yourself decorating, wrapping, or even shoveling don’t do these three things at the same time—- twist, bend, and lift. This is called a coupled motion and it’s the number one complaint I hear on a daily basis, “I quickly bent over to pick up x and strained my back.” Slowing down and being mindful of turning your feet towards the object you want to pick up (no matter how light the object is) is so important. Once you turn your body towards the object, bend at your knees and lift with your legs to pick the object up rather than hinging at the waist. Once upright, turn with your feet to head the direction you want to go. 


If you find yourself having to do a lot of wrapping this holiday season, I recommend trying to find a taller surface to wrap on. Hunching over a kitchen table or coffee table can lead to an achy mid and low back. The kitchen counter, an ironing board, or even a chest freezer may be a more helpful wrapping surface since these areas are taller meaning you can be more upright. Even if using a taller surface to wrap on, I recommend taking frequent breaks to stand up all the way, walk around, and drink some water. 


Lastly, be mindful if you have to shovel this holiday season. Take your time and remember not to twist and lift a full shovel of snow. Use a good shovel and spend most of your time pushing the snow into a big pile rather than lifting. If you have to lift, remember to slightly bend at the knees and lift with your legs. Some shovels are more ergonomic than others so pick the shovel that feels comfortable for you. 


I hope you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year with the people you love! ​