The 6 basics for health

It’s quite common in modern times for us to feel that our lives are complicated, stressful, and confusing. This is particularly true for our health – we are bombarded by a health viewpoint that looks at our body as weak, requiring treatments from the outside in. When our ability to stay healthy is complicated by confusing messages, we often reach out for the short term, quick fix type solutions, which may not have the outcome of addressing our health in a greater way.

In Chiropractic we see health very simply. We see the body and mind as inherently strong and capable. We have an optimistic view. In Chiropractic we start with general concepts, and then zoom in on the details.

A simple way to see your health is to look at the 6 main categories that we lead you to be healthy. The better you are able to implement the 6 basics of health, the more fulfilling your health journey will be.

1. Nervous system clear and functioning well. 

The nervous system is the master controller of the body – this system controls all the other systems. For example, the nervous system controls your musculoskeletal system, your breathing systems, your gut systems, and so on.

The goal of Chiropractic is to take pressure off your body so that the nervous system can work better. In Chiropractic we do not make the claim of treating ANY condition. We simply want the body to move from a state of less ease to a state of better ease. 

2. Healthy diet/nutrition/gut function. 

What we eat has a big effect on our health. This area in itself can appear very complicated!

Initially, keep it simple and ensure you are consuming lots of water, vitamins and minerals, and getting the right amount of energy foods (fats/proteins/carbohydrates). Keep your gut/digestion functioning well.

Avoid processed foods, chemicals and additives, sugar, and keep inflammation low. Go organic where possible. Address/avoid food you are allergic too. Use supplements if required to fill any gaps. Seek advice from experts in this area e.g. dietician, nutritionists, naturopath if required.

3. Adequate rest/sleep/recovery

Getting adequate sleep and rest is very important. There is much research indicating sleep affects almost every part of our health. The normal amount of sleep we need varies at different ages, and in different circumstances.

In addition to sleep, having adequate rest is important. Simply having some quiet time on your own, sitting with a cup of tea, doing some diary writing, lying down and listening to music, are all approaches to slow down your brain waves down.

4. Positive Mental Attitude.

This area of health is all about your mindset, and how your thoughts affect your feelings, and your physical body. Developing a positive mental attitude can be simple or complicated – it’s just how you look at it!

The goals here are to develop a mind that is flexible, free from fear, managing worry and stress, and developing a sense of peace of mind. Meditation is a powerful tool.

You can read books to help you in this area, can use diary writing to set goals and express your thoughts and feeling. Developing healthy relationships is part of this area.

Finally seek help from professionals (psychologists, counsellors) when you feel stuck and can’t resolve issues yourself.

5. Adequate exercise, movement, flexibility.

The word “adequate” is essential – not too much and not too little.

You don’t have to run marathons! You should aim for a mix of aerobic exercise (e.g. walking, running, swimming, bike), flexibility exercises (e.g. yoga, stretching), and strength training.

6. Personal hygiene. 

Hygiene is about taking care of your body. Examples include washing your hands, and cleaning your teeth.

In summary….

…for the most part health is simple.

But not always easy. Get a little bit done in each area each day. Each area affects all the others. Combine the approaches for greater effect. Be persistent.

Most of all, be gentle on yourself – it’s a health journey, and you will have your ups and downs, and get lax in some areas at times.

Finally seek help from a professional when you get stuck.