Spring Cleaning Your Health

Ah, spring. There's something simply magical about the season. Even perpetually peppy birds seem to have a little more cheer in their chirps, and heck, what's not to like about going outside and not being slapped by a wind so cold it makes you wonder what you ever did to make Mother Nature hate you? But there's nothing that can kill your warm weather-induced buzz faster than the idea of "spring cleaning." Not to worry, we're not going to tell you to set aside several days for massive home cleaning. Instead, we've got a few healthy tips to help you kick your health up a notch this season:

Get Outside!
Walking for exercise benefits your cardiovascular system and burns calories. Our vitamin D status tends to take a dip in the winter months, due to lack of sun exposure. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to seasonal depression, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and even cancer. Our body will make vitamin D when our skin is exposed to the sun so be sure to spend as much time outside as you can but don’t forget the sunscreen!
Learn how to de-stress instantly
Resolve to finally learn how to handle your stress this spring. If you can’t spare a block of time every day to meditate, squeeze in a few minutes each hour to experience the same benefits. Try sitting in a comfortable position and closing your eyes. Focus on pulling the air down into your belly. Breathe in for a count of five, hold the breath for a moment, and then slowly release. Continue for three to five minutes. See if you don’t feel all that stress leave your body.
Allergy-proof your house
Springtime is known as allergy season for a reason so there’s no better way to prep than to clean you home from top to bottom. You can help put the kibosh on spring allergies by washing all linens and blankets. Why? The greatest number of dust mites live in the bedroom, according to the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “All smooth surfaces, including ceiling fan blades and window coverings should be wiped with a cloth,” says James Sublett, MD, president-elect of the ACAAI. If you have forced air heating and air conditioning (HVAC), also replace your furnace filters.
Replace Old Shoes
Your comfy, worn-out running shoes may do more harm than good. The general rule of running shoe replacement is every 600 miles of running, i.e., someone running 50 to 60 miles a week should replace their shoes every three months. The material, particularly in the heel, wears out with use, and loses its cushioning effect.
Get Rid of Mind Numbing TV
You know that zoning out on the couch every night watching reality TV isn't doing you body any favors...but sometimes a girl needs her TV. The solution? Sneak in some brain-boosting options. Watch shows that stimulate thoughtful conversation (like PBS, the Discovery Channel or ones that focus on hobbies you find interesting), and discuss the topics to boost engagement and creative thinking. A consistent weekly viewing party can provide steady social time, causing a boost in brain-building chemicals such as dopamine and oxytocin.
Refresh Your Workout
Indoor exercise equipment is great for dreary days, but fresh spring air calls for going outside. Bicycling on a path, running or walking can boost creativity and lower stress. Spring is also a great time to get back to enjoying activities best suited to milder weather, like water sports, tennis and golf.
Better Meal Planning
Springtime means the arrival of a ton of fresh fruit and vegetables. Start incorporating local produce into your everyday meals and you’ll find yourself feeling better and saving money! The more colorful your plate the better!
See Your Chiropractor!
Chiropractic care is not only about Pain – it is about better Health. Improving your immune system, Internal strength, moving and feeling better, and avoiding medication.