General Health
Fairfield Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Centre encourages our clients to be responsible for their wellbeing at all times, and particularly during the current pandemic. Optimal health incorporates all aspects in the chart, and the best outcome is the interplay between the six elements.
Exercise
Move your body daily, preferably outside. Create a daily habit so that exercise is not forgotten. Good posture and regular movement are integral to a healthy body at any age. If you spend a lot of time sitting, add breaks throughout the day with a short stretching routine and some activity on your feet.
Emotional Well Being
Mental and emotional wellbeing is part of your overall health and should not be separated. At Fairfield Physiotherapy, we attempt to address the connection between mind and body to make these elements part of your comprehensive health plan.
Social Connectedness
Although this area of health is a challenge at present, it is still essential to be aware of the effects of isolation on mental health and its connection to your physical health. As well as the use of electronic devices to connect with others, we encourage clients to have direct contact where possible while maintaining correct social distancing, e.g. say hello to your neighbours. At the same time, on your daily walk, smile with your eyes as you pass someone and talk to people while you are out (particularly older adults). Engage and listen mindfully.
Nutrition
Research indicates that a healthy diet containing predominantly fresh fruits and vegetables assists your body to achieve good health, particularly at present. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, said, “let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”, and this still applies today, with the adage “you are what you eat” is significant in your health outcome. A diet high in nutritional value leads to better health. The healthier the food, the fewer the calories!
Professional Health Management
Seek appropriate medical care for any conditions. All medical management is enhanced by lifestyle factors, as outlined in the previous points. Fairfield Physiotherapy sees people with musculoskeletal disorders. Our physiotherapists work closely with your GP, specialist, or another health provider to ensure that you receive optimal management of your injury or condition.
Sleep
It is vital to establish a regular pattern for sleep. Research says that a person requires between 7 and 9 hours of sleep daily for optimal health. Your sleep should ideally occur in the same time period each day. Your body needs this time to recover at a cellular level. Avoidance of screens and other blue light devices is recommended before bed. Dimming house lights is another strategy that lets your body know that it is nighttime.
Conclusion
Consider your health as a combination of all of these aspects of daily life. While your goal might be to live a long and healthy life, this can be influenced by what you do every day. If you improve your health daily, it will add up in the long term. Your health is your responsibility!
