Give Good Health: Holiday Gift Ideas
December 8, 2011
This year, instead of fighting traffic or jostling through the crowds at the mall, get creative with your gift-giving! Choosing gifts that encourage a healthy lifestyle is a wonderful way to show you truly care. And you never know – your gift might just be the one that kicks off a fresh start for someone who has been struggling with their health! Here are a few suggestions for healthy gifts your loved ones are sure to appreciate this year:
- Gym membership – buy a 3-month, 6-month or even a full year pass to the local fitness center.
- Good walking shoes – or a gift certificate to the local athletic shoe store.
- Heart monitor – a great way to keep track of exertion!
- Yoga classes – you can find yoga classes for all fitness levels. Sign yourself up for a class as well, and you can enjoy getting fit together.
- Organic food – try a gift card to an organic grocery store or a 3-month CSA share.
- Cookbooks – inspire healthy eating with new, delicious recipes.
- Massage certificate – everyone can benefit from regular massage. Give one, or a series.
- Chiropractic services – show your loved ones how beneficial chiropractic care is by giving a gift certificate.
Don’t give a gift that will end up sitting on a shelf or be relegated to the back of the closet. The gift of good health is always just the right size!
To inquire about gift certificates for massage or chiropractic care at Rozenhart Family Chiropractic, call Kristina at 408-979-9999.
Enjoy the Healthiest Holidays Ever
December 6, 2011
If you, your family and friends are healthy, consider it a blessing. The opportunity to gather and enjoy each other’s company without the worry or burden of suffering loved ones contributes greatly to a healthier holiday season.
If you and your loved ones fall into this category, consider taking your health to new levels. When faced with choices between healthy foods and unhealthy foods, choose the healthy ones. Make exercise your first priority by exercising first thing in the morning so that you do not get swept away by holiday activities and miss out on your workout. Schedule your chiropractic adjustments in advance so your nervous system stays healthy and your body is more resistant to stress.
When you are making plans to gather with family and friends, do not just make appointments to gather around food and drink. Gather around going for walks in the woods or hikes in the mountains or on the trails. Gather around fresh air and sunshine. If the sun is not out or the weather is bad in your area, take a fitness class together. If you have young children, this will help them to build healthy habits and values that can last a lifetime. Encourage house guests to pack clothing and shoes for these kinds of activities.
When planning your holiday meals, experiment with healthier recipes. Look for dishes that call for fresh ingredients. Download five or six recipes from your favorite cooking website and have the people you will be gathering with do the same. Talk about them and decide which ones would be fun to experiment with. Mix in a new, fresh, healthy recipe with the other foods that you like to eat and bring balance to your holiday meals, making them less destructive to your body. Each year you can experiment with new recipes. Before you know it, your holiday meals will become both delicious and healthy while helping you get off the weight loss, weight gain rollercoaster ride that has been a plague for so many people. You will leave your holiday table guilt-free and empowered.
Healthy gift giving can change a life. Many people are turning to healthy gift giving as a way to say, “I love you, I care about you, your health is important to me.” Your willingness to invest in the well-being of those that you love can go a long way to inspiring them to choose to invest in it. This action on your part can even act as an intervention to someone who is really in trouble and in denial about their health.
Healthy gifts can include a gym membership, exercise shoes, a heart monitor, a chiropractic examination or a series of chiropractic adjustments. While so many gifts are forgotten within 30 days, healthy gifts can be life changing and may be remembered for a lifetime.
If you or any of your friends or family members are experiencing pain or ill health of any kind this holiday season, this is all the more reason to make healthy choices a priority. By following these guidelines and removing pressure from the spine and nervous system with chiropractic care, this holiday season can become an opportunity to embrace a healing path and a healthier New Year.
Everyone deserves to be healthy and express their full potential from the time they are born through their last breath of life. This includes you and your loved ones. We hope that you enjoy the healthiest, happiest holiday season ever.
Reprinted with permission from The Family Practice
How Can A Holistic Health Counselor Help You?
November 22, 2011
My name is Deirdre Imagire and I’m a Holistic Health Counselor. In my practice, I help people find the foods that are right for their individual bodies, guiding them in making gradual dietary and lifestyle changes for improved health and wellbeing. I also provide support for individuals wanting to enjoy healthy foods to live better with allergies/food sensitivities and who wish to lose weight.
Clients who’ve worked with me report:
- reduced stressed
- increased energy
- feeling good about the foods they’re eating
- feeling good about the food they’re serving to their families
- experiencing increased family harmony
How, you ask, can a nutritionist help you feel less stressed and have a more harmonious family? That’s where the “Holistic” part comes in. I work with people to address, not only what they’re eating, but also aspects of their lives that could be affecting food choices. Sometimes finding peace and balance in our interpersonal relationships is the key to improving our relationship with food.
Our lives can get so busy that we barely recognize that we’re hungry or notice that when we’re full. My favorite way to improve health and wellbeing is learning to slow down to enjoy the present moment – something that my 2 year-old son helps teach me every day!
Are you curious about how holistic health counseling can help you? Let’s talk. Click here to schedule a complimentary initial consultation with me today. Want to read a bit more first? Peruse my website, find a new recipe, glance at one of my newsletters, and check out what people are saying about working with me.
I’m not big on all the craziness of Black Friday, but it seemed like a good time to offer a special deal and I didn’t think any one would object. So, here it is: I’m offering 1 FREE month of counseling for all those who sign up for a 6-month wellness plan between now and November 30th. (That means you can start getting my support now and have my help through the holiday season and not have to pay a dime until sometime after the New Year.) Click here and book your complimentary consultation now to make sure to take advantage of this special offer. Just mention Rozenhart Family Chiropractic in the comments when you schedule your session.
Reach for tasty (and healthy) snacks!
November 17, 2011
Snack food has gotten a bad reputation over the years – often for good reason. Most of the items sold as “snacks” are processed foods loaded with sugar and chemicals, guaranteed to lead to an energy crash. But there are plenty of healthy options out there to help you get through your day with steady energy and in top shape. Here are a few we like:
• Fresh fruit – and veggies too! Nature couldn’t make it simpler – grab an apple or a few carrots and you’ve got a portable, nutritious snack. The fiber will keep you feeling full and you’ll get sustained energy, not just a quick spike.
• Nuts and seeds. Nuts are a great source of protein, vitamin E and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. They can be high in fat and calories, however, so eat nuts in moderation.
• Granola bars. Not all bars are created equal – it’s easy to sneak in a ton of added sugar, so be sure to read labels carefully. Look for bars that are created with whole (and wholesome) ingredients, like Kind’s Dark Chocolate Cherry Cashew.
• Crackers. Sometimes you just want that salty crunch. Instead of reaching for a bag of chips or a box of crackers that’s loaded with trans-fats, try a healthier option, like Kashi’s TLC Original 7-Grain crackers.
• Sparkling juice. Instead of drinking soda pop (even diet), do your body a favor and make your own sparkling juice instead. Cut 100% fruit juice with club soda for a tasty, refreshing drink. You’ll get the benefits of fruit juice with fewer calories.
6 Healthy Habits for a Strong Immune System
November 10, 2011
It’s the time of year when viruses are making the rounds through offices and schools, but coming down with the cold that’s going around isn’t inevitable! Making healthy choices a habit leads to a strong immune system that can fight off even the nastiest germs. Why suffer and resort to treating symptoms with medication when you can stay healthy the first place? Here are a few tips to help you feel your best this winter – and all year round!
- Schedule regular adjustments. Regular chiropractic care contributes to your overall wellness and removes spinal interference that can impair your immune response.
- Eat well. You know it’s important to include whole grains and a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet, and that’s especially true during cold and flu season. Look for citrus fruits loaded with vitamin C, and keep eating your greens!
- Avoid stress. Easier said than done, right? But stress is known to weaken immunity, so do what you can to eliminate unnecessary stressors from your life.
- Get adequate rest. Sleep is essential to your body’s well-being, especially when you are trying to stay healthy. Make a habit of going to bed and waking at the same time each day.
- Exercise daily. Go outside and get some fresh air if possible. Research consistently shows that moderate exercise boosts immunity, so be sure to get out for a brisk walk or a bike ride regularly.
- Get a massage. Even just a single massage session has been found to boost immunity, so imagine how healthy you would be if you incorporated massage into your regular healthcare routine!
Take care of yourself this winter so you’re not dragged down by lingering colds and viruses. Schedule an appointment at Rozenhart Family Chiropractic today by calling Kristina at 408-979-9999 or schedule online now!
Here’s to a Healthier Halloween
October 27, 2011
Trick or Treat?
Trick or Treat? These days it seems like it’s really all about the treats – between school parties and cruising the neighborhood for candy handouts, Halloween is a holiday that kids love. But let’s face it, kids really don’t need any more sugar. Many kids collect more candy on one night than they need to eat all year, and it is really damaging to their health. We always think of teeth, but the ENTIRE body is affected by consuming large amounts of processed sugar. Not to mention, their taste buds get used to the taste of refined sugar that naturally sweet fruits don’t taste as appealing.
If we want to keep our kids from forming habits that can take a lifetime to break, it’s a good idea to set some boundaries around sugar. I want my son to be able to participate in the whole trick-or-treat experience and he goes around and collects candy like everyone else. When we get home, he gets to pick 5 items from his bag to eat however he wants. He can eat them all right away, or over the next few days- it’s his choice. If he chooses to eat them all at once, he usually doesn’t feel very good and we have an opportunity to talk about how what we eat dramatically affects how we feel and we have a lesson about listening to what your body is telling you. My son trades the rest of his candy in with me for a new toy of his choosing. In the past we have also exchanged for an outing of his choosing- something special. I think that is a real “prize” for both your kids and you!
Detox With The Doctors!
October 20, 2011
Detox With The Doctors!
November 7th-16th
Would you like to start the holidays off right? Maybe a little lighter?
Join us for a gentle 10 day detox to cleanse the body, removing toxins creating better eating habits while releasing pounds!
There is no starving yourself , you get a full system cleanse and great support.
Your program includes:
- Guided meal plan for 10 days, including dietary recommendations coming off the detox.
- Shopping List
- Metagenics Ultra Clear Medical Food
- Metagenics Adva Clear Capsules
- Group Meeting in advance of the Detox
- Group support and communication with others in the program over the 10 days.
Investment to your health:
$195, which includes all your supplements and materials. You MUST attend a pre-detox meeting on Friday November 4th at 6:30pm at RFC
We look forward to your success! Call Kristina at 408-979-9999 to get registered!
**You do NOT have to be a practice member to join us, so feel free to share with your friends and family!
Fall Recipe: Baja Butternut Squash Soup
September 22, 2011
Photo Credit: Farmanac
Soup’s on! Although butternut squash is available year-round, peak season begins early fall (right now!). Here’s a tasty recipe perfect for a weekend picnic or a chilly evening from the American Council on Exercise:
Recipe Overview
Serves: 10
Prep Time: 45 min.
Total Time: 80 min.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds (1 butternut or other winter squash)
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4-1 teaspoon ground chipotle chile, (see Note)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoon snipped fresh chives, or chopped parsley
Cooking Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cut squash in half and seed. Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut-side down. Bake until tender when pierced with a knife, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Scoop out flesh when cool enough to handle.
- Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add celery, onion and carrot and stir to coat. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, until soft, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the squash flesh, cumin, chipotle to taste and cloves. Add broth and simmer, covered, until the vegetables are very tender, 20 to 25 minutes.
- Puree the soup with an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches) until smooth. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with a drizzle of yogurt and sprinkle of chives (or parsley).
Note: Chipotle peppers are dried, smoked jalapeño peppers. Ground chipotle can be found in the specialty-spice section of most supermarkets or online at penzeys.com.
The Prescription Drug Abuse Crisis
September 15, 2011
Photo Credit: Amanda M Hatfield
Prescription drug abuse is out of control. Every day we hear stories in the news about kids, adults and especially celebrities who have experienced the consequences of prescription drug abuse and have either died, been injured or had to be admitted into some form of rehabilitation center. It is hard to believe that those little pills can grab such a powerful hold on your mind and body and spin your life out of control.
A recent report by the Executive Office of the President of The United States entitled Epidemic: Responding to America’s Drug Abuse Crisis revealed that prescription drug abuse is the nation’s fastest growing drug problem. Nearly one third of people age 12 and over who used drugs for the first time in 2009 began using a prescription drug non-medically.
In Canada, 54% of participants in a study reported misusing their prescription drugs at least once. 52% diverted the use of their drugs to a non-prescribed usage and 42% of the participants deliberately used their prescription with alcohol or another drug.
Drug ads on television, and in every other type of media, do not help the situation. Through beautiful scenery and highly paid actors, the commercials promise relief while disguising the side effects. Have you ever noticed how many drug ads come on during the popular time slots? One after the other we get hammered by them. Listen carefully to the side effects and do extensive homework before you ever put yourself in a position to get hooked. The highly addictive nature of some of these chemicals can own you for a lifetime once they get in you.
Seeing someone who is abusing prescription drugs or any drug for that matter is scary. The withdrawal symptoms can turn the calmest person into the image of a wild dog searching for food.
A drug filled lifestyle can be dangerous. The side effects are many and are not communicated thoroughly. As time goes on, people often add a second, third and sometimes many more drugs to their daily routine to offset the side effects of the one that they started with.
Nursing homes are filled with individuals who, over the years, increased the number of prescription drugs that they use and abuse on a daily basis. 45% of Medicare beneficiaries are on more than 5 drugs. If all these drugs were good for us and contributed to greater health and longevity you would think that the statistics would show it. But this is not the case. The World Fact Book ranks the United States 49th in life expectancy and Canada as Number 9.
If you think that you or someone you love is in the middle of a prescription drug crisis then you are probably right and you should trust your instincts. Consult with your doctor and get on a plan to change from a drug oriented lifestyle to a drug free one. You can do it.
Chiropractic offices everywhere are filled with individuals who have taken charge of their health and made this critical transition.
While the purpose of chiropractic care is not to take you off a drug it is very common that when people begin to get adjustments on a regular basis they find their need and dependency on both prescription and non prescription medication goes down dramatically or disappears altogether.
No wonder more and more individuals and families are taking the drug free approach to healthcare that chiropractic delivers. Now it’s your turn.
Reprinted with permission from The Family Practice.
Labor Day Weekend: Tips for Healthy Eating
September 1, 2011
Photo Credit: sporkist
With Labor Day coming up this weekend, we thought this would be the perfect time to brush up on healthy BBQ eating and give you a few ideas of what to bring to that potluck:
- Use a whole grain bun for that hamburger / hot dog.
- Fresh fruit is a great complement to your BBQ / picnic (watermelon, strawberries, etc), so pack a cooler full of ripe produce.
- Flavor your food with natural ingredients instead of standard condiments; use tomatoes, onions, pepper to add a little flavor instead of slathering it with unnecessary mayonnaise, ketchup, etc.
- Instead of drinking soda and sugary drinks, opt for lots of water to help you stay hydrated.
- For additional side dishes, bring dips like hummus, black bean or red bean dip and fresh veggies.
Remember to protect yourself from the sun and enjoy the time with friends and family!
