People go to see a chiropractor for many different reasons. (1) Some go because they’re in pain, some go because they want to perform better on the sporting field, and some want to sleep better.
But did you know that almost 50% of chiropractic patients go to their chiropractor because they simply want to maintain their health and well-being?
Maintenance care is when patients go to a chiropractor even when they are not in pain or discomfort. The idea with maintenance care is that regular adjustments will help maintain your spine and nervous system function at its optimal level and help you to be your best and to prevent new episodes of pain from developing. (2)

What does the research say about maintenance care?

It makes sense to look after your health, so you don’t get sick, right? And that often you get sick because you have been pushing yourself too hard and you’ve become run down? The research tells us that your spine can get run down too, long before you feel pain. We know that if your brain doesn’t send appropriate protective messages to your core trunk muscles, you will have a higher risk of developing low back injuries. (3) This makes sense because a lack of core stability means you’re creating mini whiplash injuries to your spine each time you move around or lift your arm or leg.
If you end up in pain after bending down to tie your shoelaces your pain hasn’t just come out of the blue, it’s usually been developing for some time without you knowing about it. It’s often the thousandth straw that breaks the camel’s back.
All of life’s stressors can build up and impact the way your brain is communicating with your trunk muscles and then all that is needed is one last minor thing to go wrong, and you end up with pain. The goal of maintenance care is to help take the straws off your camels back before they cause symptoms or have a big impact on your life. So, the research tells us that chiropractic maintenance care makes perfect sense.
 
References

1. Adams J, et al. Spine. 2017;42(23):1810-16.
2. Leboeuf-Yde C, Hestbæk L. Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2008;16:3-3.
3. Cholewicki J, et al. Spine. 2005;30(23):2614-20.

​Central Sensitisation Syndrome (CSS) is a condition where the nervous system becomes overly sensitive to pain stimuli, leading to chronic pain that persists even after an injury has healed. This heightened sensitivity occurs due to changes in the brain and spinal cord, making normal sensations feel painful and amplifying discomfort. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, and chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome etc, are often linked to central sensitisation.(1) Symptoms include widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating, commonly known as "brain fog."
Managing CSS requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the nervous system's hypersensitivity and overall well-being. Lifestyle modifications, stress management, physical therapy, and tailored pain management strategies are key components of treatment. Many CSS sufferers and medical professionals focus on the “pain” itself, however, are yet to address the biological, phycological and social factors that are in play. Research has found biophychosocial factors are a significant influence in people living with chronic pain.(1) For example, CSS sufferers with poor sleep, socially unsupported, unstable income etc, are likely to experience greater amounts of disability compared to those more supported.
 
How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Chronic Pain
Chiropractic care can be a valuable tool in managing chronic pain associated with central sensitisation. Soft tissue techniques, spinal manipulations, acupuncture, aerobic exercises are some of the key component that are proved to be effective in managing chronic pain.(2, 3) On top of that, stress reduction techniques can be a crucial part for ones healing journey. Have a chat to one of our chiropractors in sprouting health and see how we can help manage your concerns with our variety of different techniques we offer. 

 
Reference

1.         Adams LM, Turk DC. Psychosocial factors and central sensitivity syndromes. Curr Rheumatol Rev. 2015;11(2):96-108.
2.         Schneider M, Vernon H, Ko G, Lawson G, Perera J. Chiropractic Management of Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2009;32(1):25-40.
3.         Vernon H, Schneider M. Chiropractic Management of Myofascial Trigger Points and Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2009;32(1):14-24.

​Your Body is intelligent! Do you agree with this? It is true always. Full Stop.
To put it simply, the body-mind-spirit is innately (existing from birth) intelligent, is self healing and self regulating and thus always responds in the most appropriate way. Eg your skin knows how to heal from a cut.
 
The intelligence of the body-mind-spirit is perfect, it is only when we interfere with it, or fail to supply it with the required nutrients, appropriate stress, and movement that illness results. Illness also results when we have toxicity in our diet.
 
Symptoms and “diseases” are simply signs that the intelligence of the body-mind-spirit is under stress and is being forced to try to adapt. Symptoms and illnesses are not indications that the body-mind-spirit is inherently prone to failures; they are signs that we are failing to provide the proper environment to support it.
The goal of wellness interventions then is to support, or to stop chronic interferences and stresses to, the perfect intelligence of the body-mind-spirit so that the normal state of homeostasis and health can be restored or maintained. This is the first premise of TRUE health.
 
3 Short steps to getting healthy:
 

1. Eat natural unprocessed foods. The closer to natural is better. You don’t have to take out all of the fun, just add more healthy choices.
2. Move. Exercise at least three times per week for half an hour at a time. Just start with a 5 minute walk. Your body will soon be enjoying it and prompting you to do more. Movement reduces stress, this is proven.
3. Get your nervous system checked. The nerves control EVERYTHING. We have seen lots of babies, children and adults and have helped manage lots of different ailments.

 
When you provide your body with the right movement, foods and appropriate amount of rest and stress you can thrive. Get in for a thorough check over in all of these aspects at Sprouting Health.

The health and wellbeing of children today is showing some alarming areas of decline and is becoming a bit of a concern (1). Along with this, it is seen that there is an increasing number of neurodevelopmental disorders seen in school aged children, which may be associated with this decline (2). Do you have a loved one who’s not the best with their overall health and wellbeing, affecting their quality of life? This important article can make the world of difference to you.
 
“Data from the US National Survey of Children’s health from 2016 to 2020, showed an increase in rates of anxiety, depression, behavioural disorders and obesity. It also showed declining rates of preventative medical visits, daily physical activity, and decline in parents mental health.” (1)
 
Neurodevelopmental disorders covers conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysphonia, Tourette syndrome, synaesthesia, and other distinctions in behaviour and neurobiology (2). It is currently estimated that it affects around 15% of school aged children, with ADHD having a prevalence of around 5-11% (2). It has been increasing over the last decade, with the prevalence of ADHD being 8% in 2011/12, and current data from a 2022/23 National Survey of Children’s Health showing 10.5% of the population age 3-17 years in the US have ADD or ADHD (3). In Australia, around 1 in every 20 Australians has ADHD, and more than 3 in 4 children diagnosed with ADHD in childhood still have symptoms as an adult (4).
 
Conditions of neurodevelopmental disorders are associated with several health and wellbeing difficulties, including poor sleep, poor school performance, gross motor function deficits, musculoskeletal pain, headaches, digestive issues and other physical complaints (5-9). Can chiropractic help with supporting children who are affected by these conditions?
 
In a recent research literature, a retrospective review of case records of school-aged children receiving chiropractic care was done. The sample of cases were children aged 5-18 years attending a public school in the US. The children were offered chiropractic care if they were identified by teachers/educators as having a neurodevelopmental disorder, or if it was requested by the child’s caregiver due to musculoskeletal and/or other health complaints, and were assessed and screened for eligibility to receive chiropractic care by the chiropractors providing the care. In this review, children who received chiropractic care found significant improvements in several areas, mainly in the health and activity domain and the overall score of the paediatrics quality of life questionnaire, which reflects enhanced self-reported quality of life related to health and activities (10). Though more research would be needed to further substantiate these findings as this case series only involved 180 children, early findings indicate positive influence of chiropractic care in supporting the health and wellbeing of children with these conditions.
 
So if you want to find out if chiropractic care may help improve the overall quality of life for you or your loved ones, have a chat with one of our chiropractors to see how they can assist.

“Childhood is a period of huge growth and development so it’s important to help support children to maximise their quality of life in this sensitive period”
 
 
 
 
1. Lebrun-Harris, L.A., Ghandour, R.M., Kogan, M.D. and Warren, M.D., 2022. Five-year trends in US children’s health and well-being, 2016-2020. JAMA pediatrics, 176(7), pp.e220056-e220056.
2. Francés, L., Quintero, J., Fernández, A., Ruiz, A., Caules, J., Fillon, G., Hervás, A. and Soler, C.V., 2022. Current state of knowledge on the prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood according to the DSM-5: a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA criteria. Child and adolescent psychiatry and mental health, 16(1), p.27.
3. Initiative, T.C.A.H.a.M. 2024. Data Resource Center for Child & Adolescent Health.
4. Australia, H., 2024. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).3. Boivin, M.J., Kakooza, A.M., Warf, B.C., Davidson, L.L. and Grigorenko, E.L., 2015. Reducing neurodevelopmental disorders and disability through research and interventions. Nature, 527(7578), pp.S155-S160.
5. Gnanavel, S., Sharma, P., Kaushal, P. and Hussain, S., 2019. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and comorbidity: A review of literature. World journal of clinical cases, 7(17), p.2420.
6. Landgren, V., Svensson, L., Törnhage, C.J., Theodosious, M., Gillberg, C., Johnson, M., Knez, R. and Landgren, M., 2024. Neurodevelopmental problems, general health and academic achievements in a school‐based cohort of 11‐year‐old Swedish children. Acta Paediatrica, 113(3), pp.506-516.
7. King-Dowling, S., Proudfoot, N.A. and Obeid, J., 2019. Comorbidity among chronic physical health conditions and neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 6, pp.248-258.
8. Blackmer, A.B. and Feinstein, J.A., 2016. Management of sleep disorders in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: a review. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy, 36(1), pp.84-98.
9. Alabaf, S., Gillberg, C., Lundström, S., Lichtenstein, P., Kerekes, N., Råstam, M. and Anckarsäter, H., 2019. Physical health in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 49, pp.83-95.
10. Duehr, J., Cook, L., Blonigen, A., Cade, A., Glucina, T., Buerger, M., Sullivan, S., Perez, T., Navid, M.S., Niazi, I.K. and Haavik, H., 2025. Retrospective review of case records of school-aged children receiving chiropractic care. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies.

Did you know that 50-70% of pregnant women experience low back or pelvic pain? While this discomfort is common, it doesn’t have to disrupt your daily life. Let’s explore its causes and effective ways to manage it.
Understanding the Causes

• Previous Back Pain – A history of back pain increases your chances of experiencing it during pregnancy.
• Hormonal Changes – The hormone relaxin (peaks at end of first trimester) softens ligaments, making joints more flexible but also less stable, often increasing discomfort.
• Postural Shifts – As your baby grows, your centre of gravity changes, affecting posture and leading to pain in the pelvis, legs, and even the neck and jaw.
• Daily Habits – Prolonged sitting, poor posture, and frequent bending or lifting (like picking up a toddler) can strain your back.
• Stress & Sleep – Emotional and physical stress can amplify pain, while poor sleep hinders recovery and lowers your serotonin and dopamine predisposing you to feeling more pain and tiredness.
• Hydration, electrolytes & Nutrition – Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet reduces inflammation and supports healing.

 
How Chiropractic care can help
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is an effective way to:
✔ Relieve back, neck, hip, and joint pain.
✔ Improve posture and spinal alignment.
✔ Address and help manage symptoms like nausea, swelling, and indigestion.
Research also suggests chiropractic care may improve pregnancy outcomes, including reducing labor duration and creating more space for your baby to grow.
The Bottom Line
Pregnancy is a transformative journey—while back pain may be part of it, it doesn’t have to take over. With the right strategies and support, you can stay comfortable and focus on the excitement of bringing new life into the world.
For specific, tailored care, consider visiting Sprouting Health Chiropractic. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Some Daily strategies for relief

• Professional Support – Prenatal-trained Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help manage pain. Chiropractors use, pregnancy-specific techniques for spinal alignment and overall well-being.
• Exercise & Movement – Gentle activities like pregnancy yoga, Pilates, and water walking strengthen core muscles and improve mobility. Modify existing workouts as needed.
• Daily Adjustments
  • Squat instead of bending to lift objects.
  • Use a chair when picking up your toddler—let them climb onto your lap before standing.
  • Try an exercise ball to relieve lower back tension.
  • Wear supportive shoes and consider a pregnancy support belt.
  • Delegate heavy lifting or prolonged standing tasks when possible.
• Prioritise Rest – Sleep on your left side with a pillow between your knees. Take breaks throughout the day to reduce strain. Consider doing NSDR (Non-sleep Deep Rest) or Yoga Nidra practices throughout the day.

 
References
[1] Beliveau PJH, Wong JJ, Sutton DA, et al. The chiropractic profession: A scoping review. Chiropr Man Therap. 2017.
[2] Alcantara J, Nazarenko AL, Ohm J. Patient outcomes under chiropractic care using the Webster Technique. J Altern Complement Med. 2018.
[3] Borggren CL. Pregnancy and chiropractic: A narrative review. J Chiropr Med. 2007.
[4] Higginbottom MC, Jones KL, James HE. Intrauterine constraint and craniosynostosis. Neurosurgery. 1980.

Brain Function and Chiropractic Care

There are different ways to measure brain function in a lab setting, but there is no need to be fancy because we can get a basic understanding of how well your brain functions based on day-to-day activities.
Perhaps you notice you’re not as “sharp”, feeling “foggy”, “blanking” easily? You’re experiencing a reduced mental performance, clarity and acuity.
Perhaps you notice you’re not as strong, a bit more clumsy, falls easily? You’re experiencing a loss of motor function and reduced proprioception (ability to sense body position in space).
All the above is not just because of “aging”, but a reduction in the speed and efficiency of the communication between the brain and the body. And guess what is the main pathway between the brain and body? The spine! And of course, Chiropractic can help with maintaining your brain “speed” and overall function.
Hawkes (2024) reported an improvement in memory and recollection with a resolution of recurrent thigh pain with Chiropractic care. Patient reported Chiropractic care as “life-changing” upon improvement in mental clarity (Steinberg, 2023)
Reaction times and cerebellar function were noticeably improved following spinal adjustment on patients with subclinical neck pain (Daligadu, 2013). Complex reaction time tasks were significantly improved following Chiropractic care, specifically after upper cervical adjustment (Kelly, 2000). Overall improvement on sensorimotor function was improved following Chiropractic care in groups of older adults (Holt, 2016).
Finally, a case study reported that Chiropractic care seemed to improve brain fog in individuals experiencing mental health difficulties (Masarsky, 2024). These are all amazing results as as always we would love to have more research, these early indicators are extremely positive results!
If you’re interested in staying as “sharp” as ever and having the capacity to “play”, enjoying the time well spent with your loved ones, consider Chiropractic. Give us a call, send us a message and book an appointment with us. We’d love to look after you.
 
​

1. Hawkes D, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C. Decreased thigh pain and increased mental acuity and physical performance in a 26-year-old male under Chiropractic care: A case report. Asia-Pac Chiropr J. 2024;4.4.
2. Steinberg B, Clodgo-Gorden K, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C. Improved mental clarity, balance, and digestive function, and normalised gait in 63-year-old female under chiropractic care: A case report. Asia-Pac Chiropr J. 2023;4.2
3. Daligadu J, Haavik H, Yielder PC, Baarbe J, Murphy B. Alterations in cortical and cerebellar motor processing in subclinical neck pain patients following spinal manipulation. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics. 2013 Oct 1;36(8):527-37.
4. Holt KR, Haavik H, Lee AC, Murphy B, Elley CR. Effectiveness of chiropractic care to improve sensorimotor function associated with falls risk in older people: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics. 2016 May 1;39(4):267-78.
5. Masarsky CS, Todres-Masarsky M. Long COVID Fatigue, Depression, ‘Brain Fog’, and Subluxation: A case report. Asia-Pac Chiropr J. 2024;5.1.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders affect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles causing pain, discomfort, restricted movement or even cracking/clicking noises. This can interfere with daily activities like speaking and eating that impacts our quality of life.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull, allowing the movement required for talking, yawning and chewing. A TMJ disorder occurs when the joint becomes misaligned, damaged or inflamed leading to dysfunction and discomfort.
TMJ disorder can result from multiple factors, including:

• Jaw Injury: Trauma to the jaw or head can damage the TMJ, leading to chronic pain and dysfunction (Leeuw & Klasser, 2018).
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Habitual clenching or grinding of teeth, especially during sleep, puts excessive stress on the jaw joint (Lobbezoo et al., 2018).
• Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ, causing inflammation and deterioration (Wright et al., 2016).
• Misalignment of the Jaw or Teeth: Uneven bite or dental issues can strain the TMJ (Pérez del Palomar & Doblaré, 2007).
• Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress can lead to jaw clenching, exacerbating TMJ symptoms (Manfredini et al., 2010).
• Poor Posture: Slouching or holding the head in a forward position for extended periods can contribute to jaw tension (Hiraba et al., 2017).

Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or discomfort while eating
• Locking of the jaw joint
• Headaches or earaches
• Facial pain or swelling
• Neck and shoulder pain

Preventing TMJ Disorder
While TMJ disorder is not always preventable, some habits can reduce the risk or severity of symptoms:

• Maintaining good posture to avoid unnecessary jaw strain
• Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress-induced clenching
• Avoiding chewing gum or hard foods that overwork the jaw muscles
• Seeking prompt dental care for bite alignment issues.

TMJ disorder can be painful and disruptive, but understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can empower individuals to manage it effectively.
 
See one of our Drs of Chiropractic at Sprouting Health for more advice and management options.
​
References

• Hiraba, K., Hu, D., Kuroki, T., & Seno, A. (2017). Influence of head posture on the electromyographic activity of jaw-closing muscles. Clinical Biomechanics, 46, 93-98.
• Leeuw, R., & Klasser, G. D. (2018). Orofacial pain: Guidelines for assessment, diagnosis, and management. Quintessence Publishing.
• Lobbezoo, F., Ahlberg, J., Raphael, K. G., Wetselaar, P., Glaros, A. G., & Kato, T. (2018). International consensus on the assessment of bruxism: Report of a work in progress. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 45(11), 837-844.
• Manfredini, D., Lobbezoo, F., & Poggio, C. E. (2010). Correlation between stress and temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 37(6), 407-411.
• Pérez del Palomar, A., & Doblaré, M. (2007). Influence of dental occlusion on the biomechanical behavior of the temporomandibular joint disk. Journal of Biomechanics, 40(8), 1643-1652.
• Wright, E. F., North, S. L., & Nelson, C. J. (2016). Management and treatment of temporomandibular disorders: A clinical perspective. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 24(3), 157-167.

 

Back pain is often considered an issue for adults, but research shows that children and adolescents are also significantly affected. While their experience shares similarities with adults, there are key differences in prevalence, causes, and long-term impact.
 
Prevalence and First Occurrences
 
Studies indicate that about 50% of children will experience low back pain at some point, with 15% having frequent or persistent pain. First episodes commonly occur between 12-14 years old, and the likelihood increases with age. In contrast, adults have a higher annual prevalence (38%) compared to children (17.4%).(1-3)
 
Causes and Risk Factors
 
For children, back pain often arises from:
•           Sports-related injuries—Activities like gymnastics, wrestling, football, and dancing involve                     repeated spinal movements that increase risk.
•           Growth spurts—Periods of rapid growth can make the spine more vulnerable to stress.
•           Psychosocial factors—Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to back pain.
•           Lifestyle habits—Obesity and smoking are linked to a higher risk of pain.
 
Adults, however, experience back pain more frequently due to postural issues, degeneration, and disc problems. While children’s pain is often mechanical and injury-related, adults are more prone to chronic and degenerative conditions.
 
Activity Response and Chronic Pain Risk
 
A key difference is how children and adults respond to pain. Adults tend to reduce activity, which can lead to deconditioning and poor core strength, worsening the issue. Adolescents, however, are more likely to continue their activities, sometimes pushing through pain. Unfortunately, experiencing back pain as a teenager increases the likelihood of chronic pain in adulthood.(4)
 
Short summary
 
While children and adults share some common experiences with back pain, the underlying causes and long-term effects differ. Understanding these differences can help with early intervention and better management, reducing the risk of chronic pain in adulthood. Have a chat to one of our chiropractors to see how we can help manage your or your children’s symptoms

​
References

1.         Hayden JA, Mior SA, Verhoef MJ. Evaluation of chiropractic management of pediatric patients with low back pain: a prospective cohort study. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics. 2003;26(1):1-8.
2.         Kordi R, Rostami M. Low back pain in children and adolescents: an algorithmic clinical approach. Iranian Journal of Pediatrics. 2011;21(3):259.
3.         Hooten WM, Cohen SP, editors. Evaluation and treatment of low back pain: a clinically focused review for primary care specialists. Mayo clinic proceedings; 2015: Elsevier.
4.         Selhorst M, Selhorst B. Lumbar manipulation and exercise for the treatment of acute low back pain in adolescents: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy. 2015;23(4):226-33.

We know that children are more at risk of getting ear infections when they have been swimming a lot.
 
Ear infections, medically known as acute otitis media is one of the most frequently diagnosed diseases in children and more than 20 million antibiotics are prescribed annually in the United States.[1],[2]
 
Otitis media with effusion (OME) is when there is fluid in the middle ear without signs or symptoms of ear infection.[3]  
Acute otitis media (AOM) is when there is the presence of fluid in the middle ear in conjunction with recent or abrupt onset of signs of inflammation of the middle ear.[4]
Frequently, AOM is over diagnosed,[5] and failure to differentiate AOM from OME may be the most common cause of unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions3 and may contribute to antibiotic-resistance.  AOM and OME both are upper respiratory tract infections, but children with AOM also have pain and fever.
The current recommendation for the treatment of AOM is to use an antibacterial agent (usually amoxicillin).[6] Antimicrobial therapy is not recommended for patients with OME because it typically resolves spontaneously. [7]
A literature review that looked at results from forty-nine articles concluded that it is possible that some children with AOM may benefit from spinal manipulation therapy or spinal manipulation therapy combined with other therapies. However, more rigorous studies are needed to provide evidence and a clearer picture for both practitioner and patients. [8]
So if you’d like to know more about if we may be able to help in the management of recurring ear infections along side your health team, please give our Practice a call.


References:
[1] American Academy of Family Physicians, & American Academy of Pediatrics Subcommittee on Otitis Media With Effusion. (2004). Otitis media with effusion. Pediatrics, 113(5), 1412-1429.
[2] American Academy of Pediatrics Subcommittee on Man- agement of Acute Otitis Media. Diagnosis and manage- ment of acute otitis media. Pediatrics 2004;113:1451-65.
[3] Steinbach, W. J., & Sectish, T. C. (2002). Pediatric resident training in the diagnosis and treatment of acute otitis media. Pediatrics, 109(3), 404-408.
[5] Pichichero, M. E., & Poole, M. D. (2001). Assessing diagnostic accuracy and tympanocentesis skills in the management of otitis media. Archives of pediatrics & adolescent medicine, 155(10), 1137-1142.
[6] Subcommittee on Management of Acute Otitis Media. Diagnosis and management of acute otitis media. Pediatrics 2004;113:1451-65.

[7] Dowell SF, Schwartz B, Phillips WR. Appropriate use of antibiotics for URIs in children: part I. Otitis media and acute sinusitis. The Pediatric URI Consensus Team. Am Fam Physician 1998;58:1113-8, 1123.

[8] Pohlman, K. A., & Holton-Brown, M. S. (2012). Otitis media and spinal manipulative therapy: a literature review. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 11(3), 160-169.

​In our final video blog for the year, we’d like to share with you some tips for a healthier new year.
Let’s start with a different perspective. Instead of commonly used phrase of “New Year Resolution”, how about we talk about “New Lifestyle”, a new way of life. When it’s a new way of life, it will become something that is a part of you. It’s not merely a list of things or actions to do or to tick-off.
When we want to start something new, adopting a new habit or breaking patterns; we need to do it regularly. At the same time, they need to be achievable so that you can always celebrate your accomplishment every day. Celebrate each of the actions that contributes to the “new healthier you”.
There’s no need to spend money and commit to a gym or pay a nutritionist just yet, but here are 3 things you can do daily as foundations of the “new you”:

• Move
• Breathe
• Meditate

Move – Work your way up towards 30 minutes of walk each day. If you’re beyond that, then do 1 hour. If you’re beyond that, challenge yourself in various physical ways, especially resistance training where you maintain muscles’ function. Whatever it is you end up doing, can you stick to that routine, daily?
Breathe – Belly and Nose. Let’s keep it simple to that. Can you send your breath to your belly first, then ribs, then upper chest. Can you do a gentle breath in and out, through the nose only and keep that mouth closed. Get into that pattern first before doing anything else fancy.
Meditate – This doesn’t have to be sitting still, humming, and chanting mantras. How long you do this is entirely up to you. It’s all about purpose and intention. Mindful meditation. It’s not about emptying your thoughts but focusing on the things that can help you keep going. For example:

• Daily gratitude and being thankful for your loved ones and the basics that you have access to daily
• Focusing on the beauty and wonders of nature while you walk
• Noticing what you feel while you walk or sitting still, the breeze, the sound, the muscle twitches, or whatever else it may be
• Having an appreciation for the body’s ability to heal and its intricacies to develop a loving appreciation to take care of it more.
• Allowing that “Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery”, so what are you going to do or who are you going to be “today”?
• Work on discovering your purpose, so that you can be excited for each day you wake up

Hope you can adopt these things as foundations for the new healthier version of you.
 
Love and blessings to you all, Happy New Year!
Dr Ian and The Sprouting Health Team