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December 2024
Bright Light Chiropractic Newsletter
Important Dates To Remember:
CLOSED December 11th and 12th (Wed. and Thurs.)
CLOSED Christmas Dec 25-26th, 2024
CLOSED New Year's Day January 1st
NOTICE: Winter Is Coming...
And with it, comes SNOW.
Here's the rule on Snow Days:
Since our parking lot doesn't get plowed until 10 AM,
--If it's snowing we will be on a delayed open and our office will be closed until 10AM.
--If Manchester or Hooksett cancels school due to snow, our office will also be closed that day.
--If Manchester or Hooksett Schools announce a delayed start due to snow, our office will also delay opening until 10 AM.
HOW TO STAY HEALTHY:
A BRIGHT LIGHT APPROACH TO WELLNESS
It’s December, the season of twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and a buffet of tempting holiday treats. While it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind, staying healthy isn’t just a New Year’s resolution—it’s a gift you can give yourself all year long! Let’s explore how to Stay Well Adjusted, Eat Well, Move Well, Sleep Well, and Think Well, so you can shine brighter than your neighbor’s Christmas lights.
Stay Well Adjusted
Let’s start with what we know best: Chiropractic care. Getting weekly chiropractic checkups is like giving your spine a standing ovation—it keeps you upright and functioning at your best!
Why Weekly Adjustments?
Your spine is the superhighway for your nervous system. Subluxations, or misalignments, can block nerve signals, much like a snowstorm causes traffic jams. Studies have shown that regular chiropractic care helps improve spinal function and reduces nervous system interference.
There are literally dozens of studies that have found that spinal adjustments can boost immune function, which is especially crucial during cold and flu season. Imagine your nervous system as Rudolph, guiding your immune system through the winter fog—without subluxations, it’s a smoother ride! Want to see for yourself?... https://ccr.life.edu/research-literature-chiropractic-immunity/
“I don’t need weekly checkups,” said no healthy spine ever.
Remember, life’s daily stressors—poor posture, sitting too long, or even sneezing wrong—can create subluxations. Think of weekly chiropractic care as your spinal tune-up. It’s quick, painless, and ensures your body is ready to handle the holiday hustle.
Eat Well
Food is fuel, but let’s be honest, we all like our fuel to taste like cookies in December. While indulgence is fine in moderation, focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods to keep your energy high and inflammation low.
Fun Fact:
Did you know tomatoes, olive oil, green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and collards, nuts like almonds and walnuts, fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, and fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges. are natural anti-inflammatory superstars? Pair them with healthy fats like avocados for a nutrient boost.
Joke: Why did the tomato turn red? It saw the salad dressing!
While you’re balancing your plate, remember to stay hydrated. Dehydration can make you feel tired and cranky—and nobody wants to be the Grinch at the party.
Move Well
Winter isn’t an excuse to hibernate (sorry, bears). Movement is medicine! Staying active improves circulation, boosts your mood, and keeps holiday weight gain at bay.
Stay Active Indoors:
Try yoga or Pilates to build flexibility and strength.
Create a mini obstacle course with your kids or grandkids—bonus points for laughter!
Remember, shoveling snow counts as cardio (but don’t skip your warm-up!).
Research:
Exercise increases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that combat stress. According to the American Heart Association, just 30 minutes of moderate movement a day can lower your risk of heart disease. So, whether you’re walking the dog or dancing to Mariah Carey, get moving!
Sleep Well
Let’s talk about the unsung hero of health: Sleep. Without enough shut-eye, your body struggles to repair itself, and even your holiday cheer might take a nosedive.
Tips for Better Sleep:
Stick to a consistent bedtime, even on weekends.
Create a bedtime routine—dim lights, soft music, and no scrolling TikTok in bed!
Keep your room cool and dark; your body loves sleeping in a winter wonderland.
Fun Fact:
Studies show that poor sleep increases your risk of catching a cold. Want to be the last one standing at the holiday party? Prioritize your ZZZs.
Think Well
Mental health is just as important as physical health. The holidays can be stressful, but cultivating a positive mindset can help you stay grounded.
How to Think Well:
Practice gratitude. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day.
Take breaks. Even Santa needs to sit down once in a while.
Laugh often! Research shows that laughter reduces stress and boosts your immune system.
Quick Joke:
What do you call a snowman with a six-pack? An abdominal snowman!
The Bright Light Philosophy
At Bright Light Chiropractic, we believe health isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving! By focusing on staying Well Adjusted, Eating Well, Moving Well, Sleeping Well, and Thinking Well, you can enjoy not just a healthy holiday season but a healthier life.
And remember, your spine called—it says weekly adjustments are the best gift you can give yourself this year.
Here’s to a brighter, healthier you!
From Stress to Peace:
Finding Rest After the Storm
Election season has come and gone, leaving many of us feeling emotionally drained. Add to that the holiday season—packed with its own unique pressures—and it’s no wonder people are yearning for peace. How do we move forward, leaving the stress behind, and embrace true rest? The answer lies in turning to timeless truths from Scripture.
Whether you’ve been feeling burdened by division, uncertainty, or the weight of holiday obligations, God’s Word provides wisdom and comfort to help us reset and refocus.
1. Let Go of Anxiety
Stress often thrives when we hold on to things we cannot control. The election, family conflicts, or the perfect holiday meal—all of it can feel overwhelming. But Scripture reminds us to surrender our anxieties to God.
New Testament Wisdom:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 4:6-7
What This Means:
Take your worries—whether they’re about politics, finances, or family drama—and place them at God’s feet. Peace isn’t found in solving every problem but in trusting that God is in control.
Practical Application:
Set aside 5 minutes each day to pray and give your worries to God.
Write down three things you’re grateful for. Gratitude shifts focus from stress to blessings.
2. Seek God’s Perspective on Unity
The election season often stirs up division, even among families and friends. But God calls us to live in harmony and to love one another—even when we disagree.
Old Testament Insight:
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
– Psalm 133:1
New Testament Command:
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”
– John 15:12
What This Means:
Unity doesn’t mean we all think the same way—it means we prioritize love and kindness over conflict. We don’t have to agree on everything, but we are called to respect and value one another.
Practical Application:
If you’ve had disagreements during the election season, reach out to someone and extend an olive branch.
Practice active listening during holiday gatherings. You don’t have to win every argument; sometimes, the greatest victory is choosing peace.
3. Remember the Sabbath Rest
The pace of the holidays can leave us feeling exhausted, both physically and emotionally. But God designed rest as a gift, not a luxury.
Old Testament Principle:
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”
– Exodus 20:8
New Testament Invitation:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
– Matthew 11:28
What This Means:
Rest isn’t just about physical recovery; it’s about reconnecting with God. When we step away from busyness, we create space for renewal.
Practical Application:
Dedicate a day (or even a few hours) each week to unplug, pray, and recharge.
Say “no” to unnecessary obligations. Rest is an act of faith, trusting God to handle what you leave undone.
4. Focus on Eternity
Both the election and holiday seasons can make us hyper-focused on the here and now. But stress often fades when we remember the bigger picture: God’s eternal plan for us.
Old Testament Reassurance:
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
– Isaiah 26:3
New Testament Hope:
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
– Colossians 3:2
What This Means:
When we shift our focus from temporary struggles to eternal truths, we find peace. God’s kingdom is unshakable, no matter what’s happening in the world.
Practical Application:
Read a chapter of Scripture each morning to set your mind on God’s promises.
Reflect on how your actions today align with eternal values like love, generosity, and forgiveness.
5. Embrace the Peace Only God Provides
At the heart of moving past stress is embracing God’s peace. This peace isn’t dependent on circumstances—it comes from knowing we are loved and cared for by the Creator of the universe.
New Testament Promise:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
– John 14:27
What This Means:
Worldly peace is fleeting, but God’s peace is eternal. It’s available to all who seek Him, regardless of the season or situation.
Practical Application:
Begin and end your day by asking God to fill your heart with His peace.
Meditate on this verse when you feel overwhelmed, and let it remind you that God’s peace is always within reach.
The Gift of Moving Forward
As we close out the year, remember this: The stress of elections and holidays doesn’t have to control you. By anchoring yourself in God’s Word and His promises, you can move forward with renewed hope and joy.
Let go of the past, focus on the present, and trust God with your future. After all, He is the ultimate Prince of Peace.
My hope for you is that you may have a season filled with God’s peace, love, and blessings!
And Now Something Funny to satisfy Proverbs 17:22
And Now A Prayer
Heavenly Father,
As we enter this season of celebration and reflection, I come before You with gratitude for the incredible patients You’ve placed in my life. Thank You for the trust they’ve shown and the opportunity to care for their health through Your divine design.
Lord, I lift each of them up to You today. May their bodies find healing, strength, and vitality, and may their hearts find peace amidst the busyness of this season. For those feeling the weight of stress, grant them rest. For those longing for connection, bring them love and community.
Father, I ask that You guide each of us to embrace this time with joy and intention. Help us to cherish our families, celebrate our blessings, and keep our focus on what truly matters: the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who came to bring hope and salvation to the world.
Bless my patients with health, happiness, and a sense of purpose as they step into the new year. May their lives be filled with Your light and their hearts overflow with Your love.
In Your holy name, I pray,
Amen.
Wishing you a season of health and happiness,
Dr. Jay, Kim, Kerrie, Lori and the rest of the Bright Light Family
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