Staying Healthy Moore Chiropractic Style
We often get asked what we do to stay healthy. So, we thought we’d share some insights into our recent healthy practices and routines. We do the things that we recommend to our clients.
We hope you can get some good ideas, or even inspiration, from our healthy habits. Remember, everyone is different and what works for us might not be the perfect fit for you. And as always, feel free to ask about any of the things in this article, or just to chat about your own health goals and practices.
Moore Nutrition Practices
“Develop a good relationship with your local organic farmer. We get meat, eggs, raw milk, and vegetables locally,” says Dr. Allyson.
Two farms we really like are Two Sparrows Farm in Eaton Rapids, MI, and Ham Sweet Farm in Williamston, MI.
Organ Meats
We have been eating organ meat for the vitamins, folate, iron, and other nutrients. This isn’t for everybody, but what we do is freeze chicken or beef liver, cut it into cubes, and eat a piece as you would take a multivitamin.
Bone Broth
We get half of a cow at a time and always ask for the bones too. We make beef bone broth and sip on it throughout the day. This is especially comforting and enjoyable during the cold winter months. Bone broth is full of good nutrition and is especially supportive of your autoimmune system. If you have any autoimmune issues, you may benefit from adding bone broth to your diet.
Avoid Processed Foods
It is important to avoid as much processed food as you can, but like all things, it is a balance. So many people have bad associations with certain foods so they feel overly guilty when they eat them – which is stressful. If you eat healthy food the majority of the time then you don’t have to feel guilty when you enjoy a slice of pizza or have a treat occasionally.
“Stress can cause more damage to your health than eating something “bad.” It’s all a balance – including having a healthy social life and eating and enjoying life with friends,” Dr. Ryan reminds us.
Hydration
We hear all the time that it is important to drink enough water to stay hydrated. However, not all water is created equally. We really like adding LMNT electrolytes to our water. This product contains high-quality salt (good for you), Potassium, Magnesium, and NO SUGAR.
Dr. Allyson’s Morning Routine
My morning routine is really important to me. I feel like my whole day is out of balance if I don’t start with this. However, my “routine” changes day to day depending on how I am feeling. But making the time and space every day to start out with something just for me that focuses on mental strength is what I call my “routine.” This can consist of morning meditation, reading or listening to something positive, and some kind of movement, like gentle stretching or yoga.
The Importance of Sleep
Recovery and sleep are so important to an overall healthy lifestyle. We see so many people who are really focused on working out and maintaining a rigid schedule, but their sleep health is the first thing to go. While you do need to be consistent to see results, don’t forget to listen to your body. Sometimes a good nap or great night of sleep is more important than your workout if you are feeling fatigued.
Dr. Ryan says, “Don’t fall into the tired-wired cycle. If you are too tired and push through it and then get wired, your cortisol levels rise and your adrenals kick in and your body thinks it is in distress.”
A solid 7-8 hours of sleep a night is imperative for a healthy lifestyle. You can eat right and exercise, but if you aren’t getting enough sleep your body can’t rest and rejuvenate. You might even have trouble losing weight if you aren’t sleeping enough. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day really helps with good sleep habits as well.
“Don’t be so rigid in your workouts that you forget about rest and recovery,” warns Dr. Ryan.
Waking Recovery Practices
Waking recovery is also really important. Things like:
- meditation
- stretching
- a warm bath
- sauna
These things allow your brain to slow down while you are still awake. This is essential for stress management and overall good health.
Exercise
Dr. Allyson – I go to the gym about 5-6 days a week and concentrate on strength training. I lift heavy 3 times a week and do mostly stretching and functional movements on the other days. I typically go to Planet Fitness Gym.
“Strength training has changed my life. I use to think that running was the only real way to stay in shape. Now I do strength training and a lot of walking. All of my joints feel better, I’m stronger and more resilient.”
Dr. Ryan – I go to the gym 3-4 days a week and also play soccer twice a week. I practice strength training and circuit training.
“Strength training is really important to prevent injuries and to avoid muscle imbalances. It helps me stay in shape for my job and provides structural support.”
I also go to Planet Fitness and The Training Factory, owned by my good friend Matt Warner, B.A., NSCA, CSCS
Have Fun and Do the Things You Love
We try to be outside as often as we can. We have just started to get back into downhill skiing and snowboarding this winter. We also bought crampons so we can walk more confidently outside in the ice and snow. While we love to walk outside in the winter and get sunshine on our faces we really don’t want to fall and get hurt.
In warmer weather, we love to kayak, go hiking, play tennis, and really just enjoy the outdoors.
We also do a fair amount of traveling, which always includes exploring the outdoors and whatever fun things the location has to offer.
How Can We Help You With Your Health Goals?
Yes, we are chiropractors and our main focus is keeping your body in alignment. However, we also incorporate overall healthy lifestyles. Let us know how we can help you achieve your health goals.
Click here. To make an appointment or call (517) 781-4884
To find more about Dr. Ryan and Dr. Allyson and their chiropractic practice and philosophy, click here.