Suggestions for Successful New Year's Resolutions from BBAP

Tradition dictates that once every year; at the beginning of the year, we reflect on our lives. Where we are now... and where we would like to be in the future.

That being said, here are some suggestions for successful New Year's Resolutions:

1. Be realistic. Set achievable goals. Choose goals that are feasible to do within one year. Share your goals with family and friends for a "reality check."
2. Be specific with your resolutions. Instead of a vague "I will exercise regularly this year" opt for "I will take a 30 minute walk 3 times a week." Instead of "I will eat better this year" opt for "I will have a salad for lunch 4 times a week" or "I will not snack after dinner."
3. Break down large goals into smaller ones. For example, commit to losing weight and getting healthier by writing down specific small steps that you can take and add on to them each month. For example: In January: I will join a gym and go 3 times a week. In February: I will hire a personal trainer, etc.
4. Find alternatives to a behavior that you want to change, and make this part of your resolution plan. If you want to quit smoking or stop eating junk food but find that these behaviors relax you, choose a healthier form of stress reduction: exercise, spend time with friends, read a good book, massage therapy, etc.

And of course, last but not least ... the best health resolution for every New Year is to continue to optimize your health with regular chiropractic care at Baltimore Back and Pain Center! Make sure you contact our office to get on the schedule for 2014. Happy New Year!

Holiday Stress Reducing Tips from Baltimore Chiropractor Dr. Michael Dorn

Christmas is next week and, if it hasn't already, most people's stress levels will start to rise. "How will we fit everything into our budget this year?" "Who do we visit first?" What if I burn the cookies - again!?" "How will Santa get all of the toys delivered?!"

If your heart is suddenly racing after reading that, then read on for some stress reduction tips from Baltimore chiropractor Dr. Michael Dorn of Baltimore Back and Pain Center.

1. First, set a plan. Putting a plan on paper (or at least a Word doc) often makes it easy to break down large problems into a group of easy to manage steps.

2. Take time for yourself. "I've said it before," says Dr. Dorn. "In order to take care of others, you need to take care of yourself." Be sure to have time for you to do things for yourself. This includes dealing with nagging issues like headaches, that often get worse around this time of year. Don't ignore them.

3. Exercise 20 minutes a day. "Wait, what!? Who has the time at this time of year?" Dr. Dorn continues, "It seems like we're constantly bombarded with people telling us to exercise more, but this time it's for you." Exercise reduces the impact of stress hormones on our body and makes sleep easier, speeds healing, and improves one's outlook on difficult tasks.

So that's it, short and simple ... three steps to help make this the best Christmas season yet. If you have questions or would like more help with ways to manage your holiday stresses or pains, please contact Baltimore Back and Pain Center at 410-662-4476 and let us get you on the road to a healthier you in 2014. Visit the BBAP website for a coupon for a free chiropractic evaluation and hydromassage.