Good Health Matters

December 2024

Winter Wellbeing

 

We’re firmly into the season of festive cheer, with parties, gatherings and plenty of good food and drink ahead! But this time of year can be difficult for some, with cold weather, health challenges and stress taking a toll.

Here at GHC, we’re ready to support you with a warm welcome, a friendly smile, and of course, expert treatment and advice to keep you feeling at your best into the new year.

Seasonal stress: Keep it in check

We all need a little stress in our lives. It’s what keeps us motivated and helps us to get things done. But stress can get out of hand and turn from a helpful friend to burdensome foe if it goes unchecked for too long.

Feelings of stress, triggered by fear or anxiety, cause the stress hormone cortisol to be released from our adrenal glands. This hormone reaches every part of the body, modifying the way tissues and organs behave so we can deal with the imminent ‘threat’.

Unfortunately, many of us live in situations that provoke constant low levels of stress. That means our tissues and organs are always under the influence of cortisol, and in the long term, this can have some disastrous results.

Blood pressure rises, immune function is compromised, digestion slows, muscle tension increases. People under chronic stress are known to suffer more with depression, pain, and addiction.

Learning some simple techniques to manage your stress, then, can be one of the best things you can do for your health. There are many ways to relieve stress – use ones that connect with you. Here are a few ideas:

• Breath deep: a simple breath technique can help calm your ‘fight-or-flight’ response in the moment. Try ‘box breathing’ – breathe in slowly over a count of four, hold on to your breath for the count of four, breathe out slowly through your mouth for four, hold your breath for another count of four, and repeat.
• Make a change: the feeling of powerlessness in the face of your situation is one of the main drivers of stress. Think of one small step you can take to change your situation – you’ll feel better by taking some control.
• Me time: carve out a little time regularly to do something just for you. Relax with some music, soak in a bath, go for a walk, take some exercise, do a spot of gardening or indulge in a hobby. Everyone deserves some time for themselves.
• Switch off: being permanently available raises stress levels, especially with the rise in working from home. Set a time to switch off your computer and phone so you have an end to your working day.
• Connect: talking through your troubles can really put them into perspective, so reach out to friends and family for advice and support, or just to relax and enjoy some friendship.

Actively dealing with stress can take practice, but it’s worth the investment. Your mind and body will reap the benefits.

New faces at Good Health Centre

Allow us to introduce you to Jacqui, osteopath and personal trainer, who has recently joined the GHC team.

Jacqui’s focus is in working with her clients to find the right way forward. She understands that there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ method to recovery and rehabilitation, and what works for some won’t work for everyone. Her patient-centred approach means each step of the process is tailored to what’s right for you right now.

Jacqui will guide you and track your progress every step of the way, so you get the best results. Try a session with Jacqui and see the benefits for yourself.

 

 

 

 

 

Book with Jacqui

The Wellness Edit

Take proactive steps to maintaining good health this winter and make the best of the season. Try these little winter pearls of wisdom!

1. Feel the chill. Don’t let the storms put you off! Pull on some warm and waterproof gear and head outside. Cold weather can stimulate the circulatory system, boosting delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues. It also kicks the immune system up a notch, helping you to fight off the winter viruses.
2. Lighten up. Light exposure is vital for regulating our sleep–wake cycle and our mood. Natural light is ideal if you can get outside for a short time, but even bright indoor lights stimulate the brain, making you feel more alert. Use lighting and mirrors to maximise the benefits.
3. Plan ahead. If you’re prone to feeling stressed and overwhelmed at this busy time of year, plan some methods to help you cope. Whether it’s taking a few moments to practice mindful breathing, delegating tasks to family members, or allowing yourself some time out during social functions, find a strategy that works for you.
4. Keep moving. Motion is lotion, as they say, and as inviting as the couch looks when it’s cold and dark or you’ve had a big meal, remember that your heart, muscles and joints will thank you if you keep them busy. Start your day with a simple stretch routine. Take a short, brisk walk after eating to aid digestion – especially if you have irritable bowel syndrome.
5. Stay on your feet. Injury from a fall can happen at any time of year, but icy winter weather worsens the situation. Reduce your risk by doing some simple, regular exercises to help your balance. Squats and lunges strengthen your legs and improve your stability, and standing on one foot reinforces your sense of balance. These exercises can be modified to suit any level by holding the back of a stable chair. Give it a try – small improvements can make a big difference!

These little steps can help you be at your best over the winter. But don’t forget we’re here to help and support you if you have any concerns.

Seasonal Opening

We’re on hand to help you over the festive period – please note our revised opening hours:

Tuesday 24th December: 9am-3pm	Sunday 29th December: Closed
Wednesday 25th December: Closed	Monday 30th December: 8am- 7pm
Thursday 26th December: Closed	Tuesday 31st December: 8am – 6pm
Friday 27th December: 8am – 7pm	Wednesday 1st January: Closed
Saturday 28th December: 9am – 3pm	Thursday 2nd January: 8am – 7:30pm

Book here with one of our Team

We will have some availability for emergency appointments over the holiday season. Please contact us to find out if we can help you.

In the meantime, the GHC team would like to offer you our warmest wishes for a very happy Christmas, and for good health in the New Year!

   **Good Health Centre: enhancing good health and vitality in Yorkshire for over 30 years**