Wednesday, November 26, 2003

Reducing holiday stress

Although the holidays are a time of celebration with family and friends, there is a certain amount of stress added to our already busy lifestyles. There are a number of things that we can do to help reduce stress and prevent injury.

• Get your spine evaluated. Reduce internal stresses by removing subluxation. Spinal imbalances from old injuries tend to mainfest as physical symptoms when one is experiencing a stressful event.

• Sleep right. Make sure that you get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. Sleeping on your side or back with a pillow supporting the neck will insure proper support of the neck and reduce stress.

• Avoid looking up when decorating the house and Christmas tree. Use a sturdy stepladder and step up instead of reaching up. Do as much as possible at eye level. This reduces stress and prevents neck injury and related symptoms such as headaches.

• Think about how you lift. Always keep your feet apart, your back straight (vertical), elbows and arms close to your body; bend your knees, start in a squatting position and center your body weight over your feet.

• Avoid prolonged driving or riding. Make frequent stops. Get out of the car and walk around. It only take a 2-minute break every 45-60 minutes. You’ll arrive at your destination more refreshed and with a healthier back. Adjust your seat and headrest to support your back and neck. Bring a pillow to support your head in case you doze off.

• Keep up with your regular exercise routine. Exercise is known to promote health and reduce stress.

• Stay connected spiritually. Studies have found that people with spiritual connectness are better prepared to handle the stresses of life.

• Relax. There are many relaxation techniques, including one to be discussed at the next Health Talk.

Dr. Marilyn L. Durden and certified healing touch therapist Mary Nightingale will discuss ways to reduce stress at the monthly Health Talk scheduled for Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. at Heritage of Peachtree Retirement and Assisted Living Center, 1967 Ga. Highway 54 West in Fayetteville. The public is invited. Refreshments will be served.