Winter stands at our doorstep and there’s nothing we can do about it! And after that comes Spring, then Summer, then Fall, and before you can put on your winter coat it’s been five years and you’re noticeably older.

As one famous scholar quipped, “Time Marches on. We either join the parade or go to the rodeo.”

Time does indeed seem to march on at a relentless pace – how we respond to that march that determines how life goes. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your taste for such events), most things in life rarely feel like a parade or a rodeo. So, let’s talk about the days that don’t so much “march” as “crawl.” There are small changes you can make, today, to improve and maintain your health over time.

Never underestimate your doctor’s advice

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re an avid advocate for the clinic, your doctor has insight to share. When you ask questions, your doctor can help focus your inquiries to get to root issues.

Sometimes a “sore back” isn’t just because you did the limbo at an office party. Perhaps a “crick in the neck” is a bigger deal than you realized. Your doctor may assign some exercises that, over time, begin to alleviate some issues. Or, maybe there’s a need for in-depth testing (like X-rays). The care plan your chiropractor can provide will net big results through patient, “baby steps” over time.

Ask your chiropractor what you can do, today, to start preparing for next year’s office limbo tournament!

Don’t neglect nutrition

Everyone knows that human bones are made strong by minerals like calcium. But did you know that collagen is another important aspect of skeletal health? Most of us rarely wonder about how to improve our collagen synthesis.

While “you are what you eat” is a fun maxim, you don’t necessarily need to eat collagen to reap its benefits. Many foods contain amino acids or vitamins your body uses to synthesize collagen which can improve your skeletal health. Some common examples are beef steak, eggs, oranges, or garlic.

Chiropractors are especially interested in your skeletal health, so ask your doctor about nutrition and diet. You may have dietary deficiencies that impact the effectiveness of your chiropractic visits. Your chiropractor should be able to point you in the right direction for diet or even concerning supplements.

Enjoy the parades and rodeos

Lastly: enjoy life!

You are visiting the chiropractor to improve your quality of life by improving your health. As time marches on, as your health improves, follow the scholar’s advice – join the parade! You’ve spent time probing your doctor for insight and you now enjoy the benefits of a more focused nutrition plan.

Don’t forget that it’s all to participate in life the way you desire.