You were NOT born that way. You do NOT have a deficit or are weak or are unable to function properly. Your body is an amazing incredible system that is self-healing and self-regulating. The difference between illness and health is giving your body the environment and input it needs to THRIVE.
Move – do you have full ranges of motion?
Mobility in your joints allow for the necessary input to your brain. Without movement there is an increase in nociception leading to pain. More than likely, your pain is coming from a lack in motion within any or all of your spinal joints, not just the site where you feel pain. In fact, research shows restoring motion in C1; atlas; the first vertebrae in your spine increased the straight leg raiser test; how high can you lift your leg when laying on your back without pain. You are completely and entirely connected. This proves how restoring motion in one part of your spine can greatly affect other areas. In your body right now, what may not be functioning properly which you cannot feel through pain and are not consciously aware of yet?
Eat – how are you fueling your body?
Are you eating wholesome foods and getting the essential nutrients needed for proper cellular function? Omega-3, vitamin D, vitamin A and probiotics are the essential nutrients your body needs to function that we cannot get in the grocery store and your body cannot produce. All other things necessary for your body can be found in wholesome food. How many fruits and vegetables have you eaten today? The ratio should be 2:1 vegetables to fruit. Also, to prep your digestive and metabolic system, make sure you are getting FRESH FIBER. The mechanical action of chewing stimulates your brain and preps your system for digestion.
Think – what kind of thoughts and emotions are you feeling today?
We are communal animals. We need to be surrounded by others, have someone to talk to (a confidant) and feel loved. Stress is plaguing our modern society and is prevalent in everyone’s lives. Chronic stress affects function at all levels, makes your body adapt to a long term fight-or-flight response and ultimately impairs your own health and wellbeing. Research has clearly defined how stress promotes various forms of illness including but not limited to heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, depression, anxiety and most cancers.
Again, your body is an incredible self-healing and self-regulating entity! You are NOT lacking, weak or born without anything. Everything you need to live a healthy long fulfilling life you are equipped with. Give yourself an environment which allows you to function properly and you will be healthy. It’s that simple. Truly.
References:
- Pollard, Ward. The effect of cervical or sacroiliac manipulation on hip flexion range of motion. JMPT 1998;21(9).
- Furman, Gallo. 2000, The Neurophysics of Human Behavior.
- Fletcher RH, Fairfield KM. Vitamins of chronic disease prevention in adults: clinical applications. JAMA 2002; 287(23):3127-9.
- Meany M. 2001, Stress and Disease: Who Gets Sick, Who Gets Well. Cortext Educational Seminars.