For years now, we (Dr. Brown and I) have worked with people to help them attain their wellness goals. But the truth is that you cannot separate out your daily activities and the accompanying stress from your life. Often you need to make lifestyle changes that impact your "healthy you" choices. And wouldn't you know it, it takes at least three weeks, and often more, to change a habit, so keep that in mind.

To set a goal that makes sense, we say that it needs to be SMART.

Specific: often a small step (i.e.: bending at the knees instead of at the waist -- helps improve posture!)

Measureable: how can you tell when you've done it? (Do you feel better or worse than before?)

Attainable: it has to be something that you have the ability to do (don't do something if you know you'll be hurting after)

Realistic: you can do it in the time frame and way that you've allowed (often a chiro. appt. is 15-20 minutes long, and a massage can be as long as you'd like!)

Timely: it is set for a limited time period (a few chiropractic or massage visits often jumpstart the recovery process, it's up to you to want to be well and come in monthly)

Here's my short list for this year when most of us are thinking about health care reform.

1. Eat a small serving of fruit and veggies every day or every other day. You have no idea how great those antioxidants enhance your immunity.

2. Drink plenty of unsweetened fluids, especially water, herbal and green tea. Avoid sweetened drinks such as sodas and limit how much alcohol you drink.

3. Try to get in as little as 10 minutes of exercising a day.  Walking is generally the best way to exercise, and even in this brisk weather your body could handle it! (Of course, I use an exercise program on DVD -- you can ask me about it when you visit out office :).) Plus, the exercise tones your muscles and makes you stronger, thus preventing injury.  Dr. Chris can tell you more about it, just ask him :)

4. Find "me" time as often as you can. Find time to laugh, enjoy nature and breathe deeply every day. It's good for your soul. Meditation, yoga, even a relaxing bubble bath! will do the trick! So start doing something that helps you keep centered today.

5. Keep up with your doctor's office visits.  This includes going to your PCP, Dentist, etc.  Keeping yourself in check keeps you healthy longer.

6. Get a Massage and an Adjustment! Okay so this kind of relates to Step 5, but you know they both make you feel better! And there's nothing wrong with feeling at your best! Keep your scheduled appts. and witness firsthand the results that are being produced by your healing body.  Seriously, amazing!

Shoot for one goal at a time. Master it, continue it and move on to the next. It's best to start with the one that's easiest so that you can be successful.

Wishing you a happy and healthy, goal-filled New Year.