Happy October 2020!

Some pictures from Teddy’s Birthday on October 1st. It looks like he joined his own doggie rock band. How does the name “Ruff Riders” sound as a band name?

October was certainly full of ups and down..especially with the weather. I actually cannot believe we are in the homestretch of October already. The leaves are changing and the mornings are getting much colder where I don’t feel like leaving my warm bed while Teddy is laying on top of my feet (he is very much like my foot warmer). As we all continue down the homestretch of 2020, I wanted to give a few reminders about health as we hunker down for the winter season.

Stressing. Everybody’s doing it, but not everybody’s dealing with it. Especially now during this time of uncertainty. There are ways to identify and accept your stress so that you can make it work for you, instead of the other way around. There are times I know that stress pushes up to get things done at a reasonable time but a lot of it can cause some serious health issues. It does not come as a surprise that chronic stress can cause insomnia, headaches, stomach problems and increased risk of heart attack.

Well, that certainly escalated quickly. What are some ways to help with stress/anxiety?

• For me? My pets have helped so much (granted, they can also be stressful at times..but they are so cute) I know the pets have certainly reduced my stress levels by thirty percent. Teddy is always there for me during the hard times, even though he sometimes likes to step on my feet (it still hurts) or gives me sass when I don’t get out of the door fast enough for his walks. The cats love to cuddle with me on the couch when I am watching British Bake-Off so that helps as well.
• Acupuncture, Qigong Exercises – This is no surprise coming from me. Acupuncture can help reduce the stress response in the body and patients have repeatedly told me how relaxed they feel after treatment. Qigong exercises also helps focus the mind and control breathing which help reducing stress.
• Exercise – This is relatively self-explanatory. I know some of you have to sit in front of the computer all day, so it is important to set some time for movement too!
• Journaling – Break out the bullet journaling or your fancy notebooks to write down what is stressing you out but also what you are grateful for. When you consciously point out your stressors, it helps you actually deliberate the factors more thoughtfully.

Stay tune for more tips and advice on reducing stress/anxiety that lead into reducing pain. I have also been reading a book on sleep which I will share in a video with you next time!

Because we are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, such as the flu this fall/winter season is more important than ever. It is better to be more proactive with your health!

My fellow colleague, Chris Goddin, who is an acupuncturist in Texas created this great series on immunity. You can watch it below to get some tips to boost your own system!