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The holidays are here and it is the most wonderful time of year — unless you’re traveling, of course! The holiday season is also one of the busiest travel seasons and it can be frustrating, overwhelming, and hard on your body. Here are our tips to make holiday travel easier.
Whether you’re hauling luggage across the airport or lifting suitcases up and down, holiday travel can put a lot of stress on your back. If you’re going on an extended trip, checking your bags will be well worth it. Keep a light carry-on and remember to lift with your legs, not your back!
When you are taking a long flight, remember to get up and stretch your legs and walk around every so often. Strolling up and down the aisles will help restore circulation to your arms and legs. We all know coach seats aren’t the most comfortable, so give your legs a mini-massage about halfway through the flight. You can also rock your feet back and forth from heel to toe for some easy in-flight exercise. Even scrunching up your toes and releasing them will help ease some tension.
Whether your drive is short or long, you are sure to face some holiday traffic once you hit the road. Start your road trip off right by dressing comfortably. Loose clothing allows you to move with ease and do small stretches (like shoulder rolls) while driving. To prevent and reduce back pain, have some ergonomic support. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy or expensive — a small pillow or rolled-up towel used to support your low back will do.
Perhaps most importantly, allow yourself to get plenty of rest before driving. If you are tired, stop and get a refreshment, go for a short walk, and stretch out. There’s no shame in calling it a night and checking into a hotel if you are too tired to drive. The most important thing when you’re on the road is to get to your destination safely.
Traveling can be taxing on your body, especially during the holidays when you are already experiencing added stress. To make things more enjoyable, prepare your body as best as you can. Maintain your regular chiropractic adjustments (click here to schedule an appointment) so your body is functioning optimally before your holiday travels start. Whether you’re facing traffic or airport lines, there are many challenges to overcome when traveling. Make sure you’re prepared with chiropractic care!
Wrapping gifts can be enough of a challenge as it is, but it can be especially hard if you struggle with lower back pain. But if you know how to wrap gifts in a way that relieves pressure and tension in your back, you can spread holiday cheer and deliver beautifully wrapped gifts even if you’re dealing with a pinched nerve or herniated disc.
Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, can make it incredibly hard to fully enjoy this time of year. If you experience the symptoms of SAD, these treatment tips and strategies can help you protect your mental and emotional health.
