5 osteopath-approved daily acts of self kindness

Here are The Maas Clinic osteopathy is our core practice. As a holistic health centre, osteopathy is the perfect springboard for our other offerings, including Functional and Integrative Medicine.

Since prevention is preferable to treatment, we’re keen to equip our clients with the knowledge to prevent illnesses and mechanical issues.

As such we’ve devised 5 osteopath-approved daily acts of self kindness which you can do to support your health. Starting today.

1.

Invest in a ‘Squatty Potty’

It is common practice in Western countries to place your feet on the floor when using the toilet.

Though customary, doing so can cause a kink in your colon, increasing your risk of constipation and haemorrhoids. (Source)

A Squatty Potty is a small step which hugs the base of your toilet.

To use it, you place your feet on the step whenever you use the toilet for a bowel movement. The step corrects your posture and sets up your puborectal ligament for a better bowel movement.

Good bowel function is one of the most fundamental elements of great overall health. If you don’t already have a Squatty Potty, we recommend investing in one. You’ll be glad you did!

2.

Look at the soles of your shoes

The soles of your shoes carry a huge amount of information about the balance of your body.

When you turn over a pair of well-worn shoes, you’ll notice where the sole has been worn away. If you are in balance, the soles should be evenly worn on both shoes.

If however, you notice that the soles of your shoes look significantly different, this indicates that you have an imbalance in your body. This is a red flag, and you should book an appointment with your preferred osteopath at your earliest convenience. There are often simple solutions to this type of imbalance, such as a heel lift which can be worn in one or both of your shoes.

3.

Practice good sleep hygiene

There is a reason we talk about sleep a lot: it is one of the most powerful tools you have in your toolbox for great health.

Here are a few things you can do to ensure you get a good night’s sleep:

  • reduce the temperature of your bedroom
  • buy blackout blinds/curtains
  • use no blue light for 1-2 hours before bed, or invest in blue light filtering glasses
  • buy a SOMAC unit to increase the oxygen around you when sleeping
  • use hypoallergenic pillows with dust mite protection, especially if you know that you’re allergic to dust mites

If you are ever in two minds about going to bed on time, remind yourself that your future self will thank you for it! A good bed time today is an investment in tomorrow. Give yourself the gift of more energy by prioritising your sleep.

4.

Stretch your body regularly

“Use it or lose it” — a common saying here at The Maas Clinic! Many of us live a sedentary lifestyle, which has a negative impact on us in many ways. From impaired posture, to lack of daylight, exercise, social interaction and more.

One of the best things you can do for your body is to regularly stretch it out.

Counteract a sedentary lifestyle by stretching, going for a walk, and immersing yourself in a nice environment. Giving yourself the gift of this time also allows you to be meditative and contemplative — two practices which will help to ease stress.

5.

Take regular epsom salt baths

Taking an epsom salt bath regularly has profound benefits. Epsom salts are loaded with magnesium which help to lower blood pressure, soothe muscles and encourage a good night’s sleep.

Aim to have your bath 2 – 3 hours before you head to bed bed to give your body enough time to cool down before sleep.

If you do not have a bath, you can use a foot bath as an alternative. You will still receive the great benefits of using epsom salts.

We are passionate about unpicking our clients’ health concerns and it is our number one focus to help our clients to achieve their optimal health. 

If you think that you are suffering from an issue we can help with, we’d love to hear from you.