It is often said that your body is a temple for your spirit, which means you must keep it clean and look after its well-being. Just as you treat a temple with respect, do the same with the body. One of the best ways to treat a body like a temple is by understanding it and taking measures to keep it in the best shape.
Out of all the parts of a body, the spine is the most critical. It protects the spinal cord, holds the head high, supports the weight, and helps us move. If the spinal cord is out of shape, we won’t be able to perform even the simplest of daily tasks. This article includes some critical tips suggested by Tuscaloosa chiropractors to help you maintain a healthy spine for life.
Improve Your Posture
Having a poor posture, especially among the recent generation, is common. It is mainly because of spending long hours on mobile phones, chatting, and gaming. People spend more time on entertainment instead of dedicating it to their health. If you’re also one of those people, it is high time to improve your posture by performing these tasks:
- Standing up wherever possible because sitting for long periods puts pressure on your spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and poor posture. So, try to move around for at least a few minutes every hour.
- Sleep in a comfortable position and mattress for your backbone and health. Invest in a quality mattress that gives enough support so that you don’t wake up with neck and back pain. You may also use a pillow to support certain parts of your body.
- Perform good ergonomics if you have a desk job and spend long hours sitting. You may contact trained chiropractic professionals to assess your posture and identify the causes and effects of bad posture.
Perform Simple Stretches
Whether you perform hard-core stretches or simple ones, it is crucial to stay consistent and dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to exercising. If you’re starting and don’t want to strain your body, perform a moderate-intensity workout. It will not only improve your health but also that of your spine!
The most vital thing is to strengthen the core while exercising. A solid core doesn’t put a strain on the spine and lower back. Stronger core muscles also help maintain a better posture and reduce pain. Once you make it a routine to work out daily, your body won’t be able to go even a day without doing it.
Invest in Quality Footwear
To maintain a healthy spine for life, one must pay attention to how one performs daily tasks. Besides exercising, standing properly, sleeping comfortably, and bending with care, it is equally crucial to listen to your feet and provide adequate support while walking.
The best way to maintain a healthier spine even while walking is investing in quality shoes. It will give you a firm base and keep your body aligned with the spine. You may contact a podiatrist in your area to suggest high-quality shoes according to your overall health and needs.
Move the Body with Care
Maintaining a healthy spine doesn’t mean performing severe stretches as it will strain your body. Instead, move with care when reaching to grab something from height or picking something up from the ground. If you suddenly overextend the back, it will cause strain on your overall body.
To avoid unnecessary strains, use a stepladder or stool to grab things. When picking off the ground, bend your knees instead of your lower back. Keep your back straight and engage your core muscles, especially when moving heavy objects around. Being careless can lead to serious back injuries. That’s why it is crucial to follow safe lifting techniques.
Follow a Healthy Lifestyle
Following a healthy lifestyle doesn’t always mean regularly working out and paying attention to your posture. But it also means avoiding alcohol and smoking. It is so because smoking and drinking alcohol, not combined with regular workouts, can increase your weight. Such weight is tough to lose.
That’s why prevention is the key in this case. Feeding on a healthy diet will keep your weight down and give you the energy to keep moving. If you are overweight, the risk factors for lower back pain also increase. If you want to know more about decreasing back pain, contact chiropractic professionals in Tuscaloosa for the best advice.
Be Mindful of the Technology
The discs in our lower spine load more when we sit compared to when we stand. That’s why sitting for a longer duration can upset a painful condition. It may bother us even more when we droop while watching TV, use a mobile phone for an extended period, or sit in an uncomfortable chair while studying. So it is crucial to be mindful while using the technology.
Here are a few things you can do to promote a healthier spine:
- Invest in a high-quality office chair if you work for long hours on screen.
- Place your feet on the ground when using the computer.
- Instead of adjusting the phone between the shoulder and ear, use a headset.
- Bring your mobile phone to eye level instead of bending your head down.
Enjoy Occasional Massages
Massage is not something everyone enjoys. But if you want to keep your spine happy and healthy, get moderate-level massages from a trained therapist. It will increase the blood flow in your body, loosen strained muscles, and boost your mood.
But if you don’t have the time to visit the professional or if they are far from your place, you may invest in a massage chair. Although it does not provide similar benefits to a professional, it is an easier way to enjoy the perks of shiatsu.
Wrapping Up
A healthier spine will help you lead an independent and carefree life for a long time. Since it is tough to follow all these tips at once, we suggest you start with the easiest one. Doing even the easiest thing for your back can reap remarkable benefits in the long run. But it is vital to listen to your body and don’t ignore any warning signs!