By WIN Contributor: Dr. Nicholas Slowinski, Chiropractor

BEEP… BEEP… BEEP…BEEP!  That’s right!  You do hear that noise…and no you are not dreaming, it’s your alarm clock, and its time to get moving!

It seems we’ve all been caught snoozing, and summer 2018 has flown right by us.  I’m sure it was a great one, full of lots of traditions, and many “first times” that will long be remembered.  Alas, it is September, which means the seasons are changing and it’s time to get back to routine.

Perhaps that means you’re a parent, now getting up extra early to get the kids off to school. Maybe you’re a student yourself, diving head first into yet another school year.  Or maybe it’s just another day…either way… we has human beings are but creatures of routine!

Routine is important.  It gives our day structure!  However, it can also be detrimental if we’re not sure to prioritize certain things.

Of course there is the obvious, basic needs.  Food, water, shelter…but what about the other important things we as individuals need to be who we are, efficient “all purpose” machines ready to take on each new day?   What about self care?

It’s often something we forget about.  That’s a shame; it really isn’t hard, despite all our excuses, with a big one being “no time.”

Self-care simply involves identifying your own needs, and taking the necessary steps to meet those needs!  It also means taking the time to do the activities that nurture you, who you are, what makes you, well …you!

There is an endless number of reasons why we may not be able to do this… so rather then tell you the things that only you can tell yourself about what you need to do to practice self care, I’d rather issue a challenge!  DO IT!

That’s right, PRACTICE SELF CARE!  It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture, do something small for yourself daily.

I’ll give you an example, GET MORE SLEEP!  Did you know that only approximately one third of Canadians are getting enough rest!? Check out the link below:

https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2017009/article/54857-eng.htm

News flash, not getting enough quality sleep can have serious health consequences.  As the efficient beings that we are, we need adequate rest to function both mentally and physically.   

Sleep deprivation can be detrimental in several ways including:

·      Weaker immunity

·      Memory issues

·      Trouble concentrating

·      Increased blood pressure

·      Increased risk of disease or illness

·      Decreased sex drive

·      Weight gain

·      Poor recovery from exercise

·      Increased pain sensitivity

The list is rather endless!

Self care isn’t just about pumping the breaks on life and getting more rest.  Its about prioritizing all facets of your health physically, mentally and emotionally.

That’s right, you know that nagging back or shoulder or neck or ankle or knee… that pain you have been hoping was going to go away by itself… well it often just doesn’t resolve on it’s own! That’s ok though because at WIN Health Solutions we make it really easy, literally a ‘one stop shop,’ for those looking to get back to a healthy self care routine.

Our roster is stacked with a fully eager team of professionals including chiropractors, registered massage therapists, naturopaths, physiotherapists, kinesiologists and personal trainers.  Its time for you to take control, prioritize self care and get better so you can be better! The first step is a consultation! We look forward to helping you at WIN!