‘Tis The Season To Stay Healthy!

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and spending time with family and friends. Of course, it can also be a time when it’s easy to stray out of our physical and emotional comfort zones. Our physical therapist at The Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Center wants to offer a few simple suggestions for helping you stay healthy and happy throughout the holiday season and beyond.

• While a busy holiday schedule can disrupt your regular exercise routine, we encourage you to be sure to incorporate physical activity into your plans. Even if you can’t commit the same amount of time each day or week, remember that even a small amount of physical activity can make a big difference in your overall health.
• Even though we’re heading into the shortest of days as the winter solstice arrives on Dec. 21, make an effort to bundle up and get outside into the sunlight each day to absorb some natural vitamin D.
• If you find yourself bending, lifting and carrying heavy loads (such as dragging home that big Christmas tree, toting loaded shopping bags and lifting heavy pots and trays in the kitchen), don’t forget to practice good posture by lifting with your legs and not with your back. 
• Keep in mind that holiday-related stress can do a number on your physical and mental health. Incorporate some stress-relieving techniques into your holiday routine, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
• Sure, there’s bound to be plenty of holiday beverages on hand, but don’t forget that it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated — even during the colder weather. Good old H20 has more going for it than eggnog, cider, wine or liquor.

Our entire staff at The Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Center wishes you and your loved ones a healthy and happy holiday season. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment!