We hope you and your loved ones are safe
and well after Hurricane Sandy.
It is a difficult time for us all as we work hard to restore our homes and communities. Many of us are finding ourselves doing back breaking jobs such as repairing property damage, cleaning up our yard or carrying heavy gas containers, all of which adds physical stress to our bodies along with the mental stress of weathering these storms.
Taking a few minutes each day to do your at home therapeutic exercises can make a huge difference in preventing further injuries. Also, remember to use proper mechanics. For example, when lifting keep your back straight and bend your knees.
Maintaining good nutrition can also be challenging during this time. Fast food is a convenient way to go, but may not provide us with the proper nutrients especially needed now to help maintain our immune system to prevent illness. Apples, pears, carrots, nuts and peanut butter are some examples of healthy ‘fast foods’ that do not need to be refrigerated and can be eaten without cooking.
Finding a few minutes to exercise each day is one of the greatest therapies to temper stress hormone output. The hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, are released when we are ‘stressed out’. These chemicals take their toll on your body and experts estimate that 90% of illnesses are stress-related.
Having a positive mental outlook can also help relieve stress. Think of something to be thankful for each day.
*Today I am thankful that my family and loved ones have survived the storm and are safe and healthy.
*Today I am thankful that the people in our community are helping those who are in need during the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.
Be well and stay safe.
