As we wrap up 2020 and start making toasts to the new year, many of us will find new meaning in the traditional well wishes for health and happiness. The year 2020 brought a world health crisis unlike anything we’ve seen, but it also brought togetherness at a new level as well.

Here at Foster Chiropractic we’re thankful for all of our patients’ understanding as we instituted new protocols to help keep everyone safe. New business hours and extra cleaning routines became part of our practice, as did many reminders about ways to promote health in unfamiliar times.

We’re optimistic that 2021 will be an amazing year, and we want to help you create some health habits that will last throughout the year and even longer. Here are a few things to consider when working to build a healthy lifestyle in the coming year:

Pay attention to what you eat. It’s important to choose whole grains when possible, eat a variety of colors of foods and decrease your intake of sodium and sugar as much as possible. Those whole grains contain fiber that help improve your digestive tract. Bright colored fruits and vegetables such as strawberries and blueberries have antioxidants that boost your immune system. And don’t forget all the great vitamins and minerals in green, leafy vegetables that can help with everything from better skin to warding off illness. We have vitamins in the office as well that can supplement what you eat to promote overall health.

Exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Take the dog for a walk, play catch with your daughter in the back yard, or train with a neighbor for next year’s Ardmore Run Against Hunger that benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank. It doesn’t matter what you do, the point is to get your heart rate up for a few minutes each day to help improve your blood pressure, muscle and bone health, and stay at a healthy weight.

Get a good night’s sleep. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 Americans report sleep related problems. Adults should get between 7-9 hours of sleep for optimal health benefits, including improved mood and mental state. Some ways to help ensure a good night’s sleep include cutting out caffeine 6-8 hours before you plan to go to sleep, keep your bedroom cool, around 67 degrees, and avoid screens a couple of hours before bed.

Make regular visits to your chiropractor. Getting a spinal adjustment is important. Keeping your central nervous system (housed inside the spinal column) functioning at its best boosts your overall health. Reduce back pain and migraines and boost your immune system - all with that gentle adjustment. Benefit at from our holistic approach to care for our patients, helping you tailor your nutrition and exercise habits to live your best “YOU”.

May the coming year be full of joy, laughter, and great health!