151 Heritage Park Drive #401
615-203-3505
[email protected]
M: 1-7pm | T: 7am-1pm | W: 9-11am, 2-6pm | Th: 1-7PM | F: 7-10:30am
Book Appointment

Category: Healthy Living

What is the difference between Chiropractic and Physical Therapy?

It’s normal to get confused when you have a musculoskeletal issue like back pain or joint ache and you have to see an expert. Some people might recommend you see a chiropractor while others may suggest you consider a physical therapist (physiotherapist). Since the two experts are experienced in dealing with issues that affect the muscles and joints, who should you see exactly?

Before we go any further, it’s important to know what these two practices are all about. Chiropractic is a hands-on manipulation technique meant to adjust the spine and correct restricted mobility. The technique is aimed to not only treat most musculoskeletal conditions but to also prevent them. From low back pain to tension headaches, they can all be managed by chiropractic.

Physical therapy, on the other hand, is a manipulation technique done on the body to promote healing and restore mobility. While chiropractic specifically targets spinal manipulation, physiotherapy focuses on the specific part of the body that has a problem. But just like chiropractic, physiotherapy is mostly administered using manual techniques like massage therapy and exercises.

To help you understand the two practices further, here’s a quick guide:

Training and Certification

For one to become a chiropractor, they first have to pursue an undergraduate course from a certified chiropractic school. The undergraduate training can take 3-4 years and is followed by a doctorate training that also takes the same duration. Undergraduates are also expected to complete a one-year internship program and pass the board exams. In the United States, chiropractors are accredited by the American Chiropractic Association.

Physiotherapists are also expected to complete a 4-year undergraduate program that is followed by a 3-year doctorate program. They also need to complete an internship program that runs for 30 weeks and to pass the physiotherapist board exams. In the United States, physiotherapists are certified by the American Physical Therapy Association.

Professional Status

You’ll notice most chiropractors going by the title Doctor of Chiropractic (DC). This, however, doesn’t mean that chiropractors are medical doctors. As for physiotherapists, they are referred by the title Physical Therapists (PTs). Just like chiropractors, physical therapists are not medical doctors. In some states, both DCs and PTs are considered health caregivers while in others they are not.

Treatment Philosophy

Chiropractors and physiotherapists have different philosophies for administering treatments. Chiropractors focus particularly on the nervous system (more so the spine) and the musculoskeletal (muscles and joints). They manually adjust these areas to bring relief and alleviate pain and discomfort. According to them, the issues are caused by a condition called subluxation (misalignments on the spine).

Physical therapists, on the other hand, focus on the specific part of the musculoskeletal system that has a problem. It could be your hand, leg, or hip. The whole idea is to restore mobility, balance, and strength through a personalized rehabilitation program. Thus, every treatment program is different and is suited for the problem that the patient is dealing with.

Diagnosis Approach

Chiropractors are generally experienced in detecting subluxations. This is done before they can administer treatments. Through the diagnosis, they can recommend the most suitable treatment for your underlying condition. The diagnosis can be done using physical techniques like:

  • Handgrip tests
  • Trigger point analysis
  • Muscle testing
  • Sensation tests
  • Straight leg raise tests

Additionally, chiropractors can turn to MRI, x-ray, and urinalysis if it’s necessary to discover the principal condition.

Physical therapists can also do diagnosis but their approach is very different. They diagnose mobility issues and musculoskeletal complications within their work scope. Often, they use the following diagnosis techniques:

  • Chat assessment (question and answers sessions)
  • Movement-based tests

Overall, both experts don’t diagnose medical complications but know how to identify them and recommend the right medical experts to see.

Treatment Techniques

Chiropractors administer adjustments using their hands. Some of the techniques they popularly use are:

  • Tissue mobilization
  • Joint adjustment
  • Spinal adjustment
  • Exercise therapy
  • Massage therapy

Physiotherapists also administer manual therapies just like chiropractors. Popularly techniques that they use include:

  • Rehabilitation exercises
  • Activity modification
  • Gait training
  • Muscle coordination
  • Wound care
  • Sports enhancement
  • Massage therapy

General Expertise

Ideally referred to as spine experts, chiropractors possess extensive knowledge to deal with different issues originating from the spine. This has forced them to explore other fields like physical therapy and human medicine. So, expect these experts to know a few things about what goes in the office of a physiotherapist and that of a general practitioner.

Physiotherapists, on the other hand, possess expert skills to understand and correct mobility-related dysfunctions. They also borrow from other fields like human medicine and chiropractic. This explains why chiropractic and physiotherapy are often confused.

Specialized Expertise

Even though both experts can perform general diagnosis and treatment of different musculoskeletal issues, they have specific fields where they are most suited. Clinically, chiropractors can specialize in the following areas:

  • Orthopedics
  • Radiology
  • Forensic
  • Pediatrics
  • Neurology
  • Sports Medicine
  • Nutrition
  • Occupation Health

Physical therapists are more conversant with manual therapies. Clinically, they are better suited to these fields:

  • Orthopedics
  • Pediatrics
  • Geriatrics
  • Oncology
  • Cardiovascular rehabilitation
  • Joint/tissue mobilization
  • Sports Medicine

Medication Prescription

Traditionally, chiropractors are not expected to administer medications. However, some states are allowing these experts to prescribe pain alleviation drugs to some special cases. A good example is New Mexico.

Physiotherapists are also not expected to prescribe drugs to patients. They can only be allowed to do so if they are in the military and it’s an emergency case. Their advantage over chiropractors is that they are trained in pharmacology. So, they have a general knowledge of drug prescription, effects, and side effects.

Surgical Procedures

Just like chiropractors are not expected to prescribe medications, they are also not expected to do surgery. Their expertise is conservation treatment and they are expected to stick to it. Chiropractic is globally popular because it’s known as a non-drug treatment. Thus, most patients go for it because it’s not associated with the side effects that medical drugs are associated with.

Physical therapists are also not expected to perform surgeries. However, unlike chiropractors, physiotherapists can perform wound care. This is more important if they are the only health professionals around and the wound is looking bad. In general, surgical procedures should be done by trained and licensed surgeons.

Closing Thought:

Without a doubt, there’s a big difference between chiropractic and physical therapy. The experts in these two fields are trained to handle musculoskeletal issues differently and their techniques are also different. So, you can use the above guide to decide on who between the two you should see.

What is a Healthy Breakfast?

You probably have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day that shouldn’t be skipped. While this might be true, it doesn’t mean that you should eat just about anything. You need to eat healthily. Generally, a healthy breakfast consists of carbohydrates, fiber, healthy fats, and proteins.

It’s not only meant to make you fuller but to also fuel your body for the day. Unhealthy breakfast, on the other hand, can only make you sluggish and contributes to weight issues and cardiovascular complications. So, choose to eat healthy at breakfast and start enjoying a healthy life. Here’s an elaborate guide to use.

Foods Considered Healthy for Breakfast

In general, these foods are considered healthy for breakfast, thus highly recommended:

1. Eggs

Although eggs can be taken at any time of the day, they are more effective during breakfast. One study shows that eggs can regulate blood sugar, especially after a sharp rise. They also contain antioxidants that promote better cognitive functions, eye health, and heart fitness. The protein content is enough to make you fuller.

2. Homemade Smoothies

Homemade smoothies are a quick option for concentrated nutrients. They aid in weight loss since they make you fuller quicker and are effective in reducing cravings. The advantage of making smoothies at home is that you have absolute control of your nutrients intake.

3. Greek Yogurt

Studies show that Greek yogurt is packed with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), known to aid in fat shedding and offers protection against breast cancer. It also makes you fuller quickly and improves your metabolism. There are also a few Greek yogurts that come with live cultures (probiotics), known to boost gut health.

4. Fresh Fruits

Fruits are generally delicious for breakfast. The interesting part is that they are also nutrient-packed, thus a healthy choice. Top options for breakfast include:

  • Citrus fruits – High in fiber and Vitamin C and are great in hydrating the body.
  • Berries – Rich in antioxidants and fibers, known to promote good heart health.
  • Grapefruits – Low in calories but high in fiber to aid in weight management.

5. Whole-Wheat Bread

You need carbohydrates for breakfast and there’s no budget-friendlier healthier option than whole-wheat bread. It’s packed with dietary fiber that’s essentially meant to make you fuller quickly. More importantly, fiber promotes better digestion and heart health.

6. Coffee

Coffee is a popular beverage at home and workplaces. It contains caffeine which promotes mental alertness, better mood, and brain vitality. Research shows that caffeine can also boost metabolism and may aid in weight loss. So, if you are the workout type, coffee can help a great deal. It fuels your muscles to help you train more effectively.

7. Oatmeal

If you are a cereal fan, then you should go for oatmeal. It originates from oat, which means it’s packed with enough fiber to help reduce cholesterol levels and antioxidants to fight hypertension and Heart Disease. Moreover, oatmeal makes you fuller quickly and so it’s great for promoting better weight management.

8. Herbal Tea

Herbal tea is one of the healthiest and most nutritious beverages on earth. It contains enough caffeine, known to improve mood and mental sharpness. It also has beneficial antioxidants like EGCG that’s good for your heart and brain. A cup of herbal tea a day may go a long way in fighting chronic conditions.

Foods Considered Unhealthy for Breakfast

The following foods are considered the worst for breakfast and thus should be avoided:

1 Toaster Pastries

Though toaster pastries are a common option for breakfast in most places, they are not healthy. Recent studies show that they are low in protein and this makes you hungrier during the day. As a result, you may end up eating more leading to fast weight gain.

2. Waffles

Waffles have one major issue – they are made from highly refined flour. This implies they are low in fiber and may contribute to weight gain as they are slow in making you fuller. Most waffle options are also topped with syrup, which means more sugar in your diet.

3. Pancakes

Pancakes have the same issues as waffles. They are made from refined flour and can be topped with artificial sweeteners. So, they don’t offer protection against obesity or diabetes. The secret is to just avoid them.

4. Fat-Free Flavored Yoghurt

Even though whole milk Greek yogurt is good for breakfast, fat-free flavored yogurt is not. For one, flavored fat-free yogurt comes sweetened with sugars and this is a risk for diabetes. The absence of fat also means that it takes time to get fuller when taking fat-free flavored yogurt.

5. Fruit Juices

Unlike fresh fruits, fruit juices are more of high-fructose syrup than natural fruit. So, they are a risk for diabetes and obesity. This makes them a poor choice for breakfast. What’s more, they make you hungrier throughout the day.

Key Steps to a Healthy Breakfast

To stick to a healthy breakfast plan, you need these key steps:

  • Make it a routine – Your family needs to value the importance of a healthy breakfast. So, it should be a daily thing. Kids, especially, need to be trained to appreciate healthy breakfast when they are still young. It makes it easier for them to continue the routine when they grow up.
  • Consider budget options – There are so many healthier breakfast options you can go for. For example, cheese only cost $2-$3 per containers but is low in fat and high in protein. Cereals, on the other hand, only cost $4 per box and comes fortified with valuable minerals. You should also note that fresh fruits are cheaper than processed fruit juices.
  • Look for nutrients fortification – If you are shopping for your kids, look at food products that are fortified with essential nutrients like Vitamin D, iron, calcium, and omega 3. Such nutrients are great for boosting physical and mental development in kids.
  • Include wholegrain – Whole-grain meals are a perfect substitute for processed grains. They contain enough fiber to offer protection against cancer, diabetes, and heart issues.
  • Don’t forget to hydrate – You should not forget to take fluids in the morning. Including a healthy drink like coffee, herbal tea or water can help tremendously in preventing issues like headaches, grumpiness, overeating, and tiredness.

It’s undeniable that we need breakfast to start our day, so, skipping it is not an option. The only sensible option is to consider healthy choices. Besides, not all healthy breakfast food options are costly. Others are budget-friendly but very beneficial for your health. For this reason, you have no excuse to eat unhealthily during breakfast.

Did you know Chiropractic care can help treat chronic back pain, sports injuries and auto accidents?

Get in touch with Dr. Dee at Healing Hands Chiropractic today for an initial consultation!

What Families Love about Murfreesboro, TN

When it’s the summer, most parents are thinking about having a great vacation with their kids. This means looking for amusement spots and parks. For others, it’s a time to teach their kids something fundamental about American history and culture. Murfreesboro, a city located at the heart of Rutherford County, can cater to both sets of families. The city has a population of about 117,000 people. So, it’s generally a small town if judged on population size. However, it’s one of the most explosive cities to visit or reside.

Like most cities in Tennessee, Murfreesboro has a rich history. Originally, the city was named Canonsburg, after statesman Newton Cannon. Later on, the name was changed to Murfreesboro. This is in honor of Colonel Hardy Murfree, a celebrated revolutionist. In the 1860s, this beautiful city was a colossal military base. Today, it’s regarded as one of the most exciting and finest city to live and visit. Money Magazine, for example, listed Murfreesboro in 2018 at number 19 as one of the best cities in the United States. This is hard to argue considering the following things that families love about the city:

Touches of History

Murfreesboro is supplied with so many historic sites that families love to visit. For instance, those who want to relate to the American Civil War can have a better experience at Stones River National Battlefield. The war is believed to have taken place there. There are cemeteries to show this. If you want to learn how prominent visitors were hosted during the war, you can visit Cannonsburgh Village and the Oaklands Mansion. If what you want to see are historic artifacts and collectibles, they are available at Bradley Academy Museum, the Middle Tennessee Museum, and the Heritage Center.

Predictable Climate

The Murfreesboro climate is one of the most interesting because it’s predictable. Visiting families like this about the city as it allows them to plan for their trips much better. For example, the summer season is expected to be burning hot while the winter is expected to be mildly chilly. As for the rainfall, it’s expected to be adequate during the spring and winter. This means that autumn is expected to be dry. Fall is normally warm but may be prone to occasional thunderstorms. Generally, July is expected to be the warmest month and January the coldest.

Exciting Schools

The city of Murfreesboro has invested highly in education. Right from elementary, the education curriculum is monitored by the Murfreesboro City Schools (MCS) and they have 12 schools under their jurisdiction. MCS oversees kindergartens and up to 6th grade. This has seen high educational standards being maintained across the city. For secondary schools, they are monitored by Rutherford County Schools where more than 47 schools are under the umbrella. There’s also a top national university in the city, the Middle Tennessee State University. This is an attraction for parents who are considering relocating to Murfreesboro.

Music and Art

Murfreesboro is normally a lively city and this is epitomized by music and art. The two are highly celebrated. Yearly festivals like the Main Street JazzFest and Uncle Dave Macon Festival lit the city. Both traditional and contemporary music are celebrated during these two festivals. Popular singers, dancers, and local bands show up to these events to entertain the crowds. Art is highly idolized at the local theatres, museums, and exhibitions. For example, families interested in theatrical art go to Murfreesboro Little Theatre and Murfreesboro Center for the Arts.

Affordable Living

Compared to neighboring cities and cities in other states, the cost of living in Murfreesboro is affordable. It’s 10% less than the national average cost of living. Housing, in particular, is the most affordable as it is 21% cheaper than the average national projection. For example, a one-bedroom apartment within the city costs roughly $700/month to rent while buying a median house may cost you $145,900. Utility costs are also reasonable. Other affordable costs include transport cost, healthcare cost, and grocery.

Outdoor Fun

If you are looking to have interesting family time in the outdoors, there are so many options in Murfreesboro. For starters, you could consider outdoor parks like the Old Fort Park and Long Hunter State Park. The Old Fort Park is characterized by tennis courts, kids’ playgrounds, a golf course, picnic shelters, and biking trails. As for the Long Hunter State Park, it’ allows you to enjoy nature observation, picnicking, hiking, and camping. You can also follow the Greenway System. It has amazing trails for walking and biking. The route allows your family to interact with Mother Nature.

Indoor Fun

The fun is not just in the outdoors in Murfreesboro but also indoors. A popular indoor arena for family fun is the Discovery Center. It’s a kids’ museum that also doubles up as a nature center. Since its opening in 1986, this beautiful museum has been providing kids with hands-on educational, fun, and interactive adventures. Kids can create things with paint and Cray. They can also learn a few things about traditional and contemporary farming. For adults who want a happy hour, they can go to Mayday Brewery. Amazing craft beer is served there and the music is great.

Public Transport

Back in 2007, the city decided to offer a more comfortable public means of transport. Nine buses were unveiled that could carry 16 people each and still leave extra spaces for wheelchairs and bike anchorage. The public transport system, known as the Rover Service, has made it easy for families to move around Murfreesboro comfortably during the day. The buses operate in major corridors like Highland Avenue, South Church Street, Westside Loop, and Memorial Boulevard. Adults are expected to pay $1 while kids and seniors (65 years and above) are expected to pay $0.5. This is fair considering how much taxis cost.

Shops and Restaurants

Currently, Murfreesboro has two notable malls; Avenue Murfreesboro and Stones River Mall. Avenue Murfreesboro is an amazing outdoor shopping spot that features trendy food joints like Mimi’s Café, Longhorn Steakhouse, and the Romano’s. This is in addition to several grocery stores. The Stones River Mall, on the other hand, features simple restaurants like Hot Topic, Forever 21, and Buckle. Unlike Avenue Murfreesboro, Stones River Mall is enclosed and assumes a traditional outlook. Families love it because it’s reserved.

Closing Thought:

Looking at the above provisions, there’s no way not to fall in love with Murfreesboro. The city promises so much fun and comfortable family experience. If you are looking to make your family summer break memorable, Murfreesboro is a must-visit. You can also relocate there if you want a change of scenery.

What is a Healthy Diet?

It’s saddening to understand one-in-three people in the United States exhibit some form of obesity or are overweight. This means they are not taking a healthy diet. Unfortunately, most people assume a healthy diet means strict food limitation. For others, a healthy diet features costly food options and supplements that are not readily available. Well, this is not what healthy dieting is all about. It doesn’t have to be this intricate. Though you have to restrict your food intake, it doesn’t have to be expensive. Additionally, you don’t have to spend so much money to enjoy a healthy diet.

What the WHO Says About a Healthy Diet

According to the World Health Organization, a healthy diet features different foods that are taken in moderation. In particular, the WHO recommends the following options:

  • Starch – Starch is a broad term that includes cereals (like rice, maize, and wheat) and tubers (like cassava, potatoes, and yams). Starch is the primary energy provider. The WHO, however, advises on cutting back on starch consumption as it could skyrocket your blood sugar and may easily cause weight gain.
  • Fruits and vegetables – The WHO recommends taking fruits and vegetables in plenty as they are a vital source of antioxidants, mineral salts, and vitamins. These nutrients are associated with defensive functions in the body such as protection against heart diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Fruits and vegetables also contain fibers that you need for your digestion, heart health, and skin health.
  • Animal protein – The WHO recommends healthy animal protein sources like lean meat, milk, and eggs. Fish also falls in this category. Animal protein generally repairs the body, especially after an injury. It’s also important in building muscles and bones. There are also suggestions that it could promote a better mood while enhancing cognitive functions.
  • Legumes – Here, the WHO emphasizes beans, peas, soya beans, and lentils. Legumes are rich in fibers, vitamins, and proteins. So, you can use them to replace meat. They promote better heart functions and can offer protection against cancer.

The WHO does not advise against fats, sugars, and salts entirely. However, they vouch for a lower intake. Excessive fat, for example, could trigger a heart attack or stroke. The WHO recommends unsaturated oils of vegetable origin such as corn oil, sunflower oil, and olive oil. Such oils reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues.

Concerning sugars, the WHO recommends less than 10% of your daily energy needs. Simply, what the WHO is suggesting is that you limit taking high sugars. Lastly, the WHO advises against taking too much sodium salts. This also means going slow on fish sauces as it is high in sodium.

What about Infants?

For infants, the WHO emphasizes healthy breastfeeding. According to them, a newborn should be breastfed exclusively until 6 months. At 6 months, you can introduce healthy complementary foods to the baby. You are allowed to continue breastfeeding the little one up to 2 years.

Steps to Healthy Dieting

Having looked at what a healthy diet is and the kind of foods you should eat, it’s important to know how to go about it. You need an effective guide that you can follow. To get started, here are 8 key steps to observe:

  1. Take 100% Whole Grain

You need to cut on refined grains if you are looking to eat healthily. This means clearing white bread, white rice, and refined wheat from your pantry. You should replace them with whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oatmeal. The problem with refined grains is that they lack important fibers, phytochemicals, and vitamins that you need to reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and diabetes. These nutrients are readily available in whole grains.

  1. Prepare Your Meals More Often

The way restaurants prepare foods that they claim to be healthy is not the same way you would prepare the same food. When making food at home, you are normally extra cautious. You ensure that the utensils are clean and that the vegetables are washed properly. You also ensure that ingredients are used in moderation. According to research, this can help fight weight gain.

  1. Assume the Bird Complex

A bird is a small creature that always takes small portions. You can assume this complex as it can help instill discipline to your dieting. Whether you eat at home or dine out, you should learn to take small options. The moment you get used to the idea, it becomes easy to manage your weight.

  1. Look at the Food Labels

The only way you can ascertain the content of what you are consuming is by reading the food labels. This is more important if you are buying prepackaged foods from the store. Some brands will argue that their foods are healthy, only to discover that they are loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors. You also need to take note of the added sugars.

  1. Take More Water

Are you aware that drinking water is an essential part of healthy dieting? Studies have shown that drinking water can help in weight loss. It helps to manage your appetite and this means you are not forced to overeat. Furthermore, water is important in washing toxins off the body.

  1. Skip Sweetened Beverages

If you have to take a drink that’s not pure water, then you should go for sugar-free options like sparkling water. Sugary beverages like fruit juices and sodas are heavily loaded with sugars. This makes them a potential risk of issues like diabetes and obesity. Switching to sugar-free beverages will reduce your sugar intake by a significant margin.

  1. Go for Fresh

The simplest way to avoid processed foods is going for fresh options. If what you want are fruits or vegetables, shop for what’s fresh in the market. The same goes for meat. Fresh foods are normally packed with viable nutrients that are very healthy. Unlike processed options, fresh foods do not come with artificial additives.

  1. More Potassium, Less Sodium

As earlier mentioned, sodium is a risk for cardiovascular issues. The salt can easily cause your blood pressure to rise and may trigger a stroke. Thus, you should limit its intake. One way to do it is to take more potassium. Potassium can counteract the effect of sodium. While sodium is mostly found in processed foods, potassium is present in natural options like bananas, sweet potatoes, and cucumbers.

Closing Thought:

Everyone deserves a healthy diet. As seen, it doesn’t have to be complicated. There are so many food options out there that are healthy for your body. You just have to know how to go about it. Since WHO considers healthy dieting a lifestyle, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t adopt this lifestyle.

Did you know Chiropractic care can help treat chronic back pain, sports injuries and auto accidents?

Get in touch with Dr. Dee at Healing Hands Chiropractic today for an initial consultation!

What Does Chiropractic Treat?

Globally, millions of individuals have benefitted from chiropractic. It’s one of the most sought-after alternative therapies that promises so much to the patients. For one, chiropractic promises a non-invasive treatment. Unlike surgery, there are neither cuts nor injections in chiropractic. Two, chiropractic is drug-free. This means that you don’t have to deal with drug reactions and side effects.

Doctors of Chiropractic, otherwise known as chiropractors, use hands techniques to treat you. Through hand-on techniques, your body is manipulated and this helps to treat issues like body ache, stress, and internal injuries. So you are guaranteed to heal naturally. Chiropractors also do preventive therapies to avoid serious musculoskeletal (MSK) issues from arising. The experts can diagnose and treat them in their initial stages.

So many health issues have been associated with chiropractic and here are the top 11:

1. Back Pain

An estimated 80% of people experience varied forms of backache at one point with lower back pain being the most predominant. For most of them, drugs and surgeries are their primary considerations. Though the two can be effective against back pain, they are costly and have serious risks. Chiropractic, conversely, is affordable and suffers fewer risks. When treating back pain, the back plus the spine are adjusted to clear misalignments and compressions (subluxations). In addition to treating back pain, chiropractic prevents it.

2. Sciatica

The longest nerve in the body is called the sciatic nerve and it runs from the lower back to the knees and legs. When this nerve is compressed, it results in severe pain, a condition we call sciatica. The pain is highly felt in one leg and may make it difficult for you to lift the leg or walk. A chiropractor treats sciatica by decompressing the affected nerve. Through chiropractic adjustments, the sciatic nerve is manipulated to realign itself as it should. In the end, the compression clears and so does the pain. Research shows that chiropractic has a 72% effectiveness rate against sciatica.

3. Whiplash

Whiplash refers to a physical injury that occurs on the neck following a car crash. In this case, the neck is suddenly whipped resulting in a painful injury. The good news is that it can be treated by chiropractic. A 2003 study that compares chiropractic with physical therapy and other manual therapies shows that recovery from whiplash and other neck injuries is quicker with chiropractic.

4. Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation has been linked to serious conditions like cancer and heart diseases over the years. The condition is widely treated by medications but it can still be fixed by chiropractic. Via body manipulation, chiropractic helps to reduce inflammation resulting in pain relief, muscle relaxation, and healing. It’s also important to note that by treating inflammation, you reduce the chances of cancer, heart diseases, and other conditions linked to chronic inflammation.

5. Stress

Stress is mostly associated with emotional instability. However, it can also be due to a bodily issue or an environmental concern. The cause aside, stress interferes with your quality of life. You can’t eat well, concentrate or sleep properly. This makes you unreliable and unproductive to some extent. Fortunately, it can be managed by chiropractic. A chiropractor will manipulate your muscles to relieve you from any kind of tension that might be the reason behind the stress.

6. Headaches

Whether its tension headaches or migraines, chiropractic claims to relieve them all. This is according to one study where more than 90% of respondents argue that chiropractic reduces headaches by an extensive margin. These patients prefer chiropractic over pain relievers since it addresses the source of the headache and doesn’t just treat the symptoms. It’s also argued that chiropractic can prevent headaches just as much as it can treat them.

7. Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders may manifest in different ways. Some people can’t concentrate on their sleep and so they end up waking up in the middle of the night. For others, their sleep is filled with nightmares and bed wetting. Whatever the case, you can find reliable help in chiropractic. Through chiropractic body adjustments, your sleep patterns get to improve. Chiropractors argue that the reason you can’t sleep well is that of stress, fatigue, and body ache. The adjustments are done to address these issues.

8. Scoliosis

The spine is generally flexible and this makes it delicate. It tends to curve whenever your back curves. However, if too much force is applied, the spine may curve excessively resulting in an abnormal curvature, a condition called scoliosis. It’s characterized by an abnormal posture, difficulty in breathing, and body pain. Luckily, testimonials show that it can be fixed by chiropractic. This has seen Clear Institute and other nonprofits advocate chiropractic for scoliosis.

9. TMJ Dysfunction

When the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint between the skull and the jawbone, sustains a physical injury, it can be painful. It normally becomes harder to chew since jaw movement is restricted. Sometimes it can cause toothache and headache. Since a TMJ dysfunction signified a problem with the jawbone, a chiropractor can help to release tension in the jawbone and to restore motion in the TMJ. In the end, pains are reduced and you can chew seamless.

10. Hypertension

George Bakris, a distinguished hypertension expert, did a study on chiropractic versus high blood pressure and documented his findings in a 2007 journal. According to Bakris, chiropractic adjustments have the same treatment effect as a double dose of blood pressure drugs. He argues that chiropractic can regulate blood pressure to avoid a surge. Most hypertension experts advocate for management practices. So, if you are looking not to rely on hypertension drugs, then you should go for chiropractic.

11. Fibromyalgia

When the whole MSK system is rendered sensitive by an underlying condition, the resultant disorder is called fibromyalgia. It’s characterized by widespread pain. In this case, every joint and muscle ache. Sadly, this is not the only concern. The disorder may also affect your sleep, bowel evacuation, and general wellbeing. Fibromyalgia is so serious in the sense that no one knows what causes it. What the experts know is that the symptoms can be reduced by chiropractic. By relieving pain experienced throughout the MSK system, chiropractic manages the issue.

Closing Thought:

Chiropractic has proven to work over the years and there are research-centered proofs to back it. It’s generally a great alternative to medical therapies. Chiropractic adjustments are administered by licensed and experienced professionals who understand the musculoskeletal system better than anyone. So, you should try it.

7 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Sinfully sweet! That’s the term to use when describing dark chocolate. However, research has shown that you don’t have to pity yourself for craving for this mouthwatering snack. This is because there are so many amazing health benefits masked by the sweet taste. Dark chocolate is primarily cocoa. Actually, cocoa occupies close to 90% of dark chocolate with the remaining percentage being occupied by cocoa butter, fiber, and sugar. So, a majority of the health benefits we are going to discuss are linked to cocoa.

Nutritional Profile of Dark Chocolate

We’ve already mentioned that cocoa is the main constituent in dark chocolate. It’s also important to know that cocoa has bioactive ingredients called flavanols. Flavanols are antioxidants which prevent free radicals in the body. This is critical in promoting different heart functions like improving blood circulation and blood pressure regulation. As antioxidants, flavanols are not just protective of your heart but also of your brain and body in general.

Other than flavanols, cocoa also contains catechins and polyphenols antioxidants. In fact, researchers argue that there are more of these antioxidants in dark chocolate than what you get in berries and other fruits. Besides antioxidants, dark chocolate also contains beneficial minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium. All these minerals play key roles in your immunity and general health.

Key Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate has so many health benefits and thus the list can be endless. However, these 7 are the major ones:

1. Dark Chocolate and Your Heart

healthy heart

In order to understand the role played by dark chocolate in your heart, you’ve to look at two important factors; blood pressure and blood cholesterol. Studies show that antioxidants present in dark chocolate help to regulate blood pressure. As a result, it’s able to prevent hypertension.

Studies also show that the antioxidants discourage the availability of bad cholesterol (what’s known as low-density lipoprotein). In turn, it encourages the availability of good cholesterol (what’s known as high-density lipoprotein). By regulating blood cholesterol, dark chocolate prevents heart attack diseases.

2. Dark Chocolate and Your Eyes

healthy eyes

Recent research shows that dark chocolate is good for your eyes. The research indicates that the snack has an enormous effect on your vision. In this case, your eyes become sharper and you are able to differentiate and contrast things from a distance just on first glance. Though the study was on its clinical phase, there are positives pertaining to this benefit.

In fact, dark chocolate is recommended to individuals with pathological diseases which interfere with their vision. Such people should consider taking dark chocolate over milk chocolate as the former improves their vision acuity by a significant margin.

3. Dark Chocolate and Your Skin

good skin

You probably have noticed cocoa butter in most body creams and lotions. This bioactive component is also present in dark chocolate and is very beneficial to the skin. It protects your skin against drying and sun damage. Through flavanols, dark chocolate enhances blood circulation next to the skin surface. So, your skin tends to feel hydrated and soft.

One study shows that flavanols reduce the minimal erythemal dose. The dose refers to the number of destructive UV rays that can attack your skin. Flavanols form a protective coat over your skin to ensure that the minimal erythemal dose is not reached. This means that you can be exposed to the sun for an extended time without sustaining sunburns or your skin drying. Thus, if you are planning to go on a beach vacation any time soon, then you should bring some dark chocolate bars with you.

4. Dark Chocolate and Body Inflammation

inflammation

The body responds to infectious germs in different ways. One way is through inflammation. Inflammation is not a concern so long as it’s short-term. When it becomes chronic, there’s a reason to worry as such a case is associated with cell damage and tissue death. Such symptoms expose you to the risk of arthritis and diabetes. Luckily, you can avoid it all by taking dark chocolate.

According to a 2018 study, consuming dark chocolate promotes anti-inflammatory functions in your body. This is very important when an inflammation seems to have taken longer than it should. Though researchers argue that more conclusive studies need to be done to support this, there are no reasons to think otherwise.

5. Dark Chocolate and Your Brain

your brain

Are you aware that you can prevent brain slowness and neurodegenerative conditions by taking dark chocolate? According to a 2016 study, dark chocolate helps to boost brain activity and cognitive functions. As a result, it helps to fight Parkinson’s Alzheimer, stroke, and other common neurodegenerative conditions.

The function is highly linked to flavanols. The study shows that the brain is able to recognize itself when you take dark chocolate. This is quite important in the event that you suffer an injury or a chronic disease that affects the brain. So, you are able to overcome the challenge of forgetfulness in the long run.

6. Dark Chocolate and Your Blood Sugar

diabetes

Blood sugar normally rises when insulin faces resistance in the body. Ideally, the hormone is supposed to regulate blood sugar to make sure that the levels are acceptable. So, insulin resistance is something to worry about as it’s associated with Diabetes Type 2. The good news is that it can be fixed by taking dark chocolate regularly but in moderation. This is according to a 2018 finding.

According to the finding, you only need about 20g of dark chocolate a day and this is enough to fight insulin resistance. In the end, an enhanced insulin function means reduced blood sugar volume and disease prevention. For patients with hypertensive diabetes, dark chocolate regulates both their blood pressure and glucose levels.

7. Dark Chocolate and Cancer Prevention

cancer prevention

Lastly, there are scientific suggestions that show that dark chocolate has anti-cancer effects. Given its rich supply of antioxidants in cocoa, dark chocolate may significantly prevent the invasion of cancer agents. Though there are no studies to suggest that dark chocolate may help to treat cancer, what’s clear is the fact that it’s preventive. This ideology is well backed by the American Cancer Institute (ACI). But still, ACI insists on doing more conclusive studies on the relationship between dark chocolate and cancer.

Generally, you need dark chocolate to boost your overall health. Of course, it doesn’t mean that you should snack excessively. You need to avoid getting addicted to dark chocolate as you also need other nutritious snacks. If taken in moderation, you can look forward to enjoying the discussed benefits among many others.

Benefits of Chiropractic for Men

Traditionally, men are ‘hardy’ beings. Often, we tend to dispel signs of discomfort early until it’s too much for us to bear. Unlike women, we tend to take issues like headaches and joint aches as just a by the way. We assume that such discomforts can be treated with pain killers or herbs and a bit of rest. Though such approaches are sometimes effective, they do not address the underlying issue.

Generally, it’s important that you know what’s making the body ache so as you can address it. This is where chiropractic for men comes in. It’s a holistic natural approach for all body discomforts. The treatment involves manual (by hand) adjustment of the spine and aching parts to bring about relief and restoration to body functions. The interesting part about all this is that no drugs are used and that the whole practice is non-invasive.

Today, chiropractors do more than treat an underlying musculoskeletal condition. They also diagnose these conditions and are able to offer preventive care against a majority of them. The whole idea of offering chiropractic is to enable your body to heal and defend itself. This is achievable by treating misalignments (subluxations). Now that you know what chiropractic is, it’s time you learn some of its benefits that you may have been missing on:

  1. No to Hypertension

Back in 2007, a team of researchers led by top hypertension expert George Bakris did research on the role of chiropractic on high blood pressure. To their surprise, they found that one session of chiropractic adjustment has the same effect as two doses of hypertension medications. So, they concluded that chiropractic can help avoid the use of hypertension drugs and still be able to enjoy regulated blood pressure.

  1. Strong Muscles

Men are all about muscles. Simply we are expected to be stronger than our opposite sex. This, however, cannot be said about every man out there. Chiropractic is there to make things right for all men, nonetheless. Through body adjustments, your muscles are properly aligned. The same can also be said about the bones. In the end, you are able to enjoy improved muscular energy and body strength.

  1. Better Immunity

Generally, there must be communication between the body and the brain for it (the body) to defend itself. However, the medium used for communication is the spine. If there’s a misalignment on it, then the flow of communication between the two parts is affected and so is the immunity. Through chiropractic, the spine is cleared of any obstruction to ensure that the body is healed naturally.

  1. Back Pain Relief

Back pain is one of the commonest and most serious physical conditions in men. Some are serious enough to interfere with posture and to cause disabilities. Luckily, the condition can be managed effectively with chiropractic. According to one study, men who go through several chiropractic sessions show drastic improvement against back pain. Whether it’s acute pain or chronic pain, chiropractic will help.

  1. Faster Recovery

We’ve already mentioned how important the spine is in promoting healing. Generally, it helps you not just to recover from an injury or an infection but also do it quickly. Your immune system, in this case, becomes more adaptive and effective against the condition at hand. For this reason, it’s advisable to see a chiropractor after sustaining a sports or work injury.

  1. Better Posture

Essentially, posture is controlled by the spine. If you have a problem with sitting or standing properly, it’s likely that your spine is misaligned. Since a chiropractor specializes in spinal alignment, the expert will adjust your spine effectively to eliminate subluxations. In the end, you are able to regain your posture. Additionally, a chiropractor will advise you on how to maintain your posture even at home.

  1. Headache Relief

Men get headaches for different reasons. It may be due to stress, exhaustion, drug reactions or an underlying condition. Regardless, you need to treat it. According to research, you can do it safely with chiropractic without risking side effects associated with analgesics. The research shows that chiropractic adjustments are effective both against migraines and tension headaches.

  1. Quality Sleep

Are you aware that your sleep is determined by your spine alignment? Well, if there are subluxations on the spine, your sleep quality is affected. You’ll experience periodic wakefulness because of discomforts felt on the spine. Fortunately, a chiropractor can make it all go away. By treating subluxations, your sleep quality is improved. This means you can start sleeping soundly for longer without waking up unnecessarily in the middle of the night.

  1. Stress Management

Though stress can be good when you are in some high-performance demanding situations, it can be bad for your health. It’s known to cause heart disease, hypertension, mental exhaustion, and muscle wasting. So, you need to manage it and you can do it with regular chiropractic. By eliminating subluxations, balance is brought back to your nerves and you are able to enjoy stress relief in the long run.

  1. Surgery Prevention

As already mentioned, chiropractic does not just treat but also prevents. According to a recent publication, chiropractic should be considered by patients who are planning to have surgery. By going for chiropractic adjustments, these patients can improve their chance of not only getting better but also of avoiding surgery entirely.

  1. Joint Pain Relief

Joint pain is mostly associated with men with arthritis. However, it can also happen to anyone who suffers an injury to the joint. The cause notwithstanding, chiropractic adjustments will help. By adjusting your spine, you start to experience comfort and pain relief throughout the musculoskeletal system, joints included. This is because the entire musculoskeletal system is directly connected to the spine.

  1. Healthier Lifestyle

A chiropractor is not just a therapeutic technician whose work is to realign your body. This expert is also a health advisor. You are able to benefit holistically in as far as your health is concerned. The expert is there to advise you on the following aspects of your health:

  • Better workout routine
  • Proper dieting
  • Body rest
  • Mental health

The whole health counseling idea is meant to help you make better decisions in the future pertaining to your general wellbeing.

Closing Thought:

For men, chiropractic is clearly beneficial. It’s able to treat and prevent conditions that most men struggle with on a daily basis. So, if you have been looking for a more direct, safe, and minimally invasive treatment for your body discomfort, then you should consider chiropractic. Just give a chiropractor a call now!

The Best Outdoor Activities in Murfreesboro, TN

Fun! Fun! Fun! That’s all you can think about when the sun is out in Murfreesboro, TN. This historic city is always lively. In fact, you can’t tell what makes it tick. Whether it’s historic sites, nature spots, or family-friendly parks, Murfreesboro has all sectors covered. So, when it’s summer, you know that it’s time for outdoor fun. Depending on your definition for fun, it can be anything in Murfreesboro.

For some, it’s taking an adventurous walk in the park. For others, it’s picnicking or camping with friends or family. There are also others who consider scavenger hunt or bird watching to be fun. Regardless of how you define fun, Murfreesboro has it all. To get you started, we’ve assembled some of the best outdoor activities to try out in the city this year:

  1. Go Fishing at Riverside Picnic Area

If fishing has always been a part of you and you are always looking for the best places to do it, then you’ll have a great time at Riverside Picnic Area. Actually, the area is known for rainbow trout, among other amazing catches. You can also do picnicking in this park. It has everything that you need to have a great time in the outdoors. Whether it’s to sit and observe nature or to stroll around the park, each moment spent here is special.

  1. Tour the Stones River National Battlefield

Do you want to have a more personal feel of how the Civil War might have been? Then, you need to visit the Stones River national battlefield. The battlefield houses hundreds of cemetery belonging to passionate Americans who gave their lives during the bloodiest war. There are guided tours to the spot which can help you learn more about the Civil War. It’s generally a nice place to walk when you are in love with your history. Some trails lead through the woods while others rise above the rocks.

  1. Dirt Hike at Barfield-Crescent Park

If you are ready to get dirty at a hiking site, you should go to Barfield-Crescent. The 430-meter park located in the southern part has amazing picnic shelters for families and groups. From the picnic areas, there are dirt trails leading to the jungle. So, if you are in for adventurous hikes, the trails are worth following. Throughout the park, there are 13 campsites to spend some time after the dirty hike.

  1. RV Camping at Murfreesboro RV Park

Do you have a recreational vehicle that you like camping with? Then you should drive to Murfreesboro RV Park to join RV campers alike for an amazing camping adventure. RV camping here is very exciting. The RV Park is small and quiet with so many advantages to enjoy on site. From shower houses to free Wi-Fi, they are all available. Outside the camps, there’s good cell reception and a clear view of the sky.

  1. Play with Your Kids at the Miracle Field

Are you looking for an outdoor spot where you can spend time with your kids? You should then go to the Miracle Field. This customized baseball fun field is designed to also accommodate kids with special needs. It’s wheelchair-friendly and safe for other mobility-assistance devices. There’s also a picnic area on site and amazing fun activities like the zip line and exciting rides to enjoy.

  1. Fat Biking Along the Stones River Greenway

For so many years, the Stones River Greenway has been known as a great hiking spot in Murfreesboro because of its amazing walking trails. Now, it’s also known for biking. It has amazing biking trails that are adjacent to the walking trails. So, if you have a fat bike, you can ride it along the Greenway. You can also rent one. The experience allows you to appreciate the beauty and lushness of the Greenway.

  1. Explore the General Bragg Trailhead

When looking to access the Stones River Greenway, no trail leads there fast than General Bragg. The good thing about following this trailhead is that it’s a great hike on its own. It allows you to see beautiful scenery along the way. Additionally, you can access a picnic pavilion that features beautiful restaurants and a kids’ play area. Exploring the trailhead is always adventurous.

  1. Harvest Time at Batey Farms

Batey Farms is a family-owned agribusiness that goes back to 1807. Now, the 8th generation of the family is running it. The farms are known to produce the best and freshest local produce. You are allowed to come and harvest what you like and pay for it. From strawberries and blueberries to grapes and sweet corns, you can pick them at Batey Farms. Moreover, they have a shop on site where you can buy sausages, pork burgers, and other animal-based products.

  1. Unwind at Blueberry Farm

Though most people who visit the Blueberry Farm go there to pick fresh and juicy blueberries, it’s also a good spot for unwinding. So, if you are looking for an outdoor spot that’s peaceful and one that connects you to nature, the Blueberry farm is just perfect. The 7-acre privately ran farm is characterized by more than 4,000 plant species. So, it’s not just blueberries that you can find.

  1. Scenic Walk on the Walls of the Old Stone Fort

Murfreesboro never runs out of hiking trails. The Old Stone Fort Archaeological Park is just a perfect example of what it means to walk close to nature. Walking in this park is just magical. The view is splendid and inspiring. Actually, the real fun is in walking on the walls of the historic Stone Fort. It allows you to see the park widely and intimately.

  1. Nature Observation at Long Hunter State Park

Murfreesboro has always been known as a great city for nature’s most unique and adorable birds. Part of the reason for this is the existence of Long Hunter State Park. The 2,600-acre observatory allows you to see dozens of bird species as you follow lengthy walking trails. The trails cover roughly 20 miles. Other than nature observation and hiking, you can also enjoy fishing in the park.

Closing Thought:

Whether you want to have fun with family or just some lone time in the outdoors, Murfreesboro is the city to be. With the above outdoor activities on the table, you can’t miss something memorable to do. All these activities guarantee maximum adventure.

15 Benefits of Local Honey

We all know what refined sugar can do to our health. Just think of issues like diabetes, obesity, tooth decay, and heart disease. Wouldn’t you want to avoid these risks and still be able to sweeten your food and drinks? Well, research shows that swapping refined sugar from local honey is tremendous for your health. It may be crucial in avoiding these health risks. But, what does local honey contains which makes it great for your health?

For one, local honey contains antibacterial molecules like glucose oxidase which are necessary for fighting pathogenic bacteria. This is important when it comes to promoting fast healing. Two, local honey is rich in antioxidants that are known to stimulate tissue regeneration. This comes into effect after you suffer tissue damage.

Three, local honey is naturally hygroscopic. What this means is that it helps your skin to stay moisturized and heal much faster. Last but not least, local honey is a vital source of energy. You need this energy for your body and brain. Having seen these amazing properties of local honey, it’s now time to see the roles that they play in your health and wellbeing.

  1. Allergy Relief

Each new season, people suffer from varying forms of seasonal allergies. But you don’t have to worry about this if you have local honey with you. It’ll help to build up your natural immunity so as you can be able to fight seasonal allergens like pollen and weed. The symptoms will be suppressed significantly, though it takes time.

  1. Lowers Blood Pressure

So many people with high blood pressure are susceptible to heart disease. This risk can be lowered by including local honey in your dieting. Studies show that honey contains amazing antioxidants which regulate your blood pressure. So, instead of it shooting up, it’s lowered to acceptable levels.

  1. Regulate Cholesterol

Just like high blood pressure, bad cholesterol is a risk for heart disease. When it builds up around your arteries, it may lead to a stroke or a heart attack. The levels need to be reduced. According to research, you can discourage bad cholesterol while improving good cholesterol by taking local honey.

  1. Treats Low Libido

Are you surprised by this benefit? Well, it’s normal to be. Researchers argue that you can actually improve your sex drive with regular consumption of local honey. It helps both men and women to be easily aroused in bed. Thus, it can be used as a natural remedy for treating low libido.

  1. Improves Fertility

Local honey does not just improve sex drive but also helps to treat fertility issues. It’s known to improve sperm count and chances of fertilization. This happens when you consume it with unrefined goat milk. You’ll have to include this diet in your regular routine if you are looking to have the best results.

  1. Scalp and Hair Care

According to a finding by the European Journal of Medical Research, local honey is effective in getting rid of dandruff from your head and to minimize scalp itchiness. In addition, it helps to prevent premature hair loss. However, you have to apply it on your scalp and hair on a weekly basis.

  1. Skin Care

Honey plays two major roles on your skin. One, it’s a natural skin moisturizer. Basically, it helps to hydrate and soften your skin. To enjoy a smooth skin, you can either take local honey orally or apply it as an ointment. Two, it helps to reduce skin acne and eczema. To get rid of these conditions, you need to apply local honey topically.

  1. Sleep Aid

Local honey helps you to sleep better and healthily in two ways. One, it restores glycogen reserves in the body. The glycogen reserve protects your brain from lacking energy and so you don’t have to wake up in the middle of the night because you can’t sleep. Two, taking local honey eventually promotes the secretion of melatonin, a known sleep restorer.

  1. Weight Loss

According to a recent finding by the San Diego State University, local honey can be used to shed off some extra pounds. It has the power to boost your metabolism and so you tend to have more energy for working out. Additionally, local honey reduces triglyceride levels which are highly associated with weight gain.

  1. Treat Wounds

Local honey has several properties which makes it a great treatment solution for wounds. For one, it possesses antimicrobial elements that help it get rid of bacteria around a wound. Two, the antioxidants present in it stimulate tissue proliferation and regeneration. Lastly, it moistens the treated area to encourage fast healing.

  1. Suppresses Cough

Cough is a common condition, especially among children. The good news is that it can be suppressed naturally by taking local honey. You can use local honey as a cough syrup. Of course, you have to regulate the dosage since it’s very sweet and your kids may want more. A tablespoonful a day is okay.

  1. Anti-Cancer Effects

Very few foods have anti-cancer properties. Local honey happens to be one of them. Research shows that it can be used to prevent the growth of cancerous tumors and to also slow down the proliferation of existing ones. This is because local honey contains powerful phenolic compounds like Ferulic Acid, Gallic-Acid, Caffeic acid, and Syringic Acid. These promote anti-cancer effects.

  1. Energy Boost

Local honey contains about 80% natural sugar and the rest is water (18%) and nutrients (2%). The natural sugar is a source of energy for your brain. You need it to work out and to concentrate at work. No wonder local honey is referred to as the powerful fuel for your body and brain.

  1. Treats Hangover

You probably swear that you’ll never go back into drinking each time you wake up with a devastating hangover. Only to forget the pledge after you are feeling better. You actually, don’t have to go through such anguish. Just take local honey after you have had one too many and it will help to detoxify you. It metabolizes alcohol faster and this reduces its bioavailability.

  1. Improves Short-term Memory

A recent study by Reuters shows that menopausal women can have improved short-term memory if they take local honey frequently. However, the improvement isn’t that massive to argue that local honey alone can be used for memory boost. But still, a small improvement is better than no improvement.

Closing Thought:

With the above benefits in mind, it’s convincing that you need local honey in your life. It’s the perfect substitute for refined sugars when it comes to meal preparations and a great natural remedy when it comes to preventative and curative health. Whether you take it orally or apply it topically, the results are just incredible. It’s really worth your money.

7 Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors

We live in a fast-paced age whereby things happen so fast that it becomes hard to keep an account of everything. At one time you are busy preparing your kids for school and at another time you are helping them do their homework and cooking their meals. At the workplace, you find yourself spending hours behind the desk or in an enclosed area. All of these things happen indoors. The problem is that we’ve little time interacting with nature or meeting actual people.

According to a survey, most people spend only 7% of their natural life indoors while 87% is spent inside a building. The remaining percentage represents automobile and other moving machines. The problem with spending time indoors is that there are more pollutants and so the chances of taking in toxins are high. So, you are likely to suffer from different health complications. The outdoors, however, is safer. Air is refined and purified naturally.

The outdoors provides you with a holistic treatment approach that improves your physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing. As a matter of fact, spending time outside is highly associated with a reduced risk for early death. So, you have the power to impact your health and life more positively.

What Does it Mean to Spend Time Outdoors?

You may argue that you are really busy in life and thus you rarely have time to spend in the outdoors. However, you don’t have to spend half a day outside to be okay. Even five minutes of interacting with nature are acceptable for a day. Whether it’s to enjoy fresh air or the sun, it’s all worth it. Here are some creative ways of spending time outside:

  • Take a rest on your pouch as you read something interesting
  • Answer some of your phone calls outside
  • Take your family, especially the kids, for a walk
  • Take your dog out for a walk
  • Have an occasional eat out
  • Find an outdoor hobby like hiking or photography that you can do
  • Spend your lunch break outside
  • Attend to your home garden when free

The Benefits

After doing all the above, you may ask, “then what?” Well, spending time outdoors comes with some amazing benefits. Here are the top 7:

  1. Reduces Stress

So often, we get stressed by things that we don’t have control over at all. Actually, stress does not solve anything but it just wears your brain and body. One way to reduce stress is to get distracted and the outdoors is the perfect distraction you can get.

  1. Better Mood

The outdoors doesn’t just lower your stress level but also improves your mood. Simply, you become happier. Wondering how? Studies show that your mood assumes a positive shift each time you go to the outdoors. Instead of having a negative mindset about life, you start appreciating nature and this makes you happy. In the end, your mood shifts from negative to positive. If you learn to go outside more often, then you are likely to overcome anxiety and depression as the two conditions are highly linked to bad moods.

  1. Improved Memory

It’s not easy to think clearly when you are in a closed place. According to research, your brain needs to be ‘freed’ to think much better. This is not literal. It means allowing your mind not to be confined within the walls of a room. The outdoors is known to trigger the power of recall. Simply, you are able to remember small details, more so things that happened recently. Basically, your short-term memory becomes improved. With this in mind, it helps to go out for a breather when you feel like you are forgetting some things.

  1. Sharp Focus

Just like the outdoors will help you forget about the things that worry you and to improve your short-term memory, it also helps you to concentrate and solve issues. Simply, you’ll have a better focus on life. One study found that the outdoors improve focus in kids suffering from ADHD. So, it’s important to take a walk when you can’t focus properly as it may help speed things up. Since nature is characterized by small details, your mind is forced to notice them. By doing so, your natural concentration abilities improve.

  1. More Vitamin D

Spending time outside, especially under the sun, will help you manufacture vitamin D. You need the vitamin for a number of health functions. For example, you require it for the growth and development of bones. It helps to strengthen the bones and to avoid diseases that attack them. You also need vitamin D for an immune boost. This is important when dealing with chronic illnesses like cancer and acute infections like flue and cold. Lastly, vitamin D is important in avoiding skin pigmentation. The vitamin helps your skin maintain its natural complexion.

  1. Eye Health

You probably know that it’s unhealthy for you to stare at a computer or a TV screen for hours. Such light may result in irreversible damage to your eyes. The secret is to use a part of that time to go out. There, you’ll be able to focus your eyes on things that are quite far. This will improve your eye sharpness. In this case, you are able to avoid a condition like myopia. Your eye muscles are properly exercised and are able to relax more naturally.

  1. Natural Immunity

Lastly, the outdoors has some amazing benefits for your immunity. One recent finding shows that you are able to boost your world blood cells (WBC) count by almost 40% when you spend time in the outdoors. The WBCs are the cells responsible for defending you against infections. So, a high WBC count means an enhanced immunity. You also need sunlight to achieve pain relief. It’s able to reduce the need to use pain relievers.

Closing Thought:

It generally doesn’t take much to spend time in the outdoors, but it could prolong your life and help you enjoy it. This is according to the discussed benefits. So, it’s never debatable if you should spend time outside. It’s a question of how often. Well, the answer is as often as possible. Besides, we’ve seen how you can do it in a more enjoyable fashion.