Ok, we've only got 10 more shopping days until Christmas and that means the malls and stores are going to be packed.  The race for the perfect gift is on.  As you search and browse amid the crowds, keep in mind what this entire process is all about.  Might it improve your health?

Our family has done a little soul searching this year.  Dr. April and I have really been thinking about the object of giving to each other and our families.  Is it to participate in the fun?  Give to receive? Get in the holiday spirit?  What we found is that it's all about expressing our joy, love, and gratitude for those we cherish in our lives.  If we approach this year with a focus on what's in our hearts and not in our stockings, the "reason for the season" takes on a powerful meaning.

How can this help us become healthier?  Feelings of love, gratitude, and joy have shown to improve functions of many organs, most notably the heart.  It creates synchronicity in the tissues.  This is when all the various parts of the body work together fluidly and easily coordinating their actions and producing health in the process.  We also get a healthy release of feel-good hormones, much like with exercise.  That's why it feels good to give!

As you share your joy this year through gifts, parties, or whatever your method of choice, keep in mind the celebration of love you're sharing with others.  You will brighten someone else's day while bringing health, peace, and joy to yours.

Dr. K

This time of year is more than stressful, it's often chaotic.  Parties, shopping, cooking, and more stack up pretty quick.  Here are some tips we use in our home to help fend off illness and stay healthy!

1. Rest: Getting enough sleep is critical for good health.  It allows the body some down time to recuperate.  During this time your body can focus on restoring energy levels and fighting off microorganisms that may cause disease.  

2. Drink Water: Of course this time of year is best for drinking coffee, tea, and cocoa.  But continuing to stay hydrated is important.  One major benefit is that it flushes toxins that can build up and run you down opening you up to infections.

3. Exercise: Movement gets your heart pumping and your blood flowing boosting your immune system.  It also releases feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin which help reduce stress.

4. Get Outside:  This may seem counter-intuitive, but staying inside re-exposes you to all the air and germs floating around the house.  Getting out for even 5 or 10 minutes can give that breath of fresh air you need.  It's even better when it's sunny and you get that dose of sun for Vitamin D!

5. Get adjusted:  Yes this really works.  Our daughter recently got a "bug" and we made sure she was getting adjusted.  It helps the body function properly by powering the immune system to quickly and effectively mount defenses.  She was significantly better in under 24 hours.