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Resolutions are Overrated: Sleep, Movement, Eating, and Pain Management

Dr. Isaac Strole, DC • January 29, 2025

Resolutions are Overrated: Sleep, Movement, Eating, and Pain Management 

We are one month into 2025. Maybe you made some New Year's Resolutions and are sticking to them and maybe you don’t want to talk about it. I personally believe you can make changes and form new habits at any point in the year. Why not start now? Let’s go over some foundational goals you won’t regret. 



Prioritize Better Sleep


Sleep is the cornerstone of health and recovery. To improve your sleep, start by setting a consistent bedtime and wake-up schedule. Create a relaxing bedtime routine—whether it’s reading, meditating, or listening to calming music—to signal your body that it’s time to wind down. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and free of distractions like screens. Even small tweaks, like reducing caffeine intake in the afternoon or taking a Magnesium glycinate supplement can have a profound impact on your sleep quality. 



Set Realistic Movement Goals


“Movement is medicine” and “Consistency over intensity”. If you’ve been in the clinic, odds are you have heard me say these phrases. Either figure out how to accomplish this at home or join a gym or group. Highland is blessed with some outstanding gyms that can meet your needs. Want group classes that are encouraging and fun? Try out Pulse Personal Training, EPOC, or Korte Rec Center. Want to get into combat sports like boxing or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? Hit up ALPHAS or Fathom Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, respectively. Need to unwind and de-stress? Take a yoga class at Heart and Soul Yoga with Sharon or comPOSEure.

There are many other great places too and everyone will be happy to help you. A good personal trainer can be a worthwhile investment. Do something you will enjoy and remember movement is medicine and consistency over intensity. 



Focus on Healthy Eating Habits


Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean strict diets or deprivation. Instead, aim for moderation and consistency over intensity. Starting to see the trend? Incorporate more whole foods like animal proteins, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains into your meals. Plan and prep your meals to reduce the temptation of unhealthy choices when you’re short on time. Hydration is just as important, so keep a water bottle handy throughout the day. Your minimum goal should be to drink half your body weight in ounces per day. 



Manage Pain Proactively


Chronic pain can disrupt every area of life, but there are steps you can take to regain control. Regular movement, stretching, and strengthening exercises tailored to your needs can help immensely. The good news is that improvements in one of these areas will compound and improve other areas, but specifically pain. A better diet leads to less inflammation and decreased pain, better sleep leads to quicker healing times, and movement is medicine. If pain persists, consult with a healthcare provider for personalized solutions.



Make 2025 Your Year of Progress



The key to achieving these goals lies in starting small and staying consistent. Track your progress, celebrate your wins—no matter how small—and give yourself grace when setbacks happen. Each step you take, no matter how tiny, brings you closer to the vibrant, healthy life you deserve. Here’s to making healthy changes at any point in the year!

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Don't let the rain dampen your fitness routine! When the weather outside is dreary, it's the perfect opportunity to stay active indoors. Whether you live in a small apartment or a spacious home, these 10 exercises will help you maintain your fitness without needing to step outside. Let's dive into a fun and effective indoor workout routine you can follow on those rainy days. 1. Jumping Jacks Kick off your indoor workout with some classic jumping jacks. This simple yet effective exercise gets your heart rate up and muscles warmed up. Aim for three sets of 30 to keep your energy levels high. 2. Push-Ups Strengthen your upper body with push-ups. Whether you opt for standard, knee-supported, or wall push-ups, focus on maintaining a proper form to maximize benefits. Try to do three sets of 10-15 repetitions. 3. Bodyweight Squats Work your lower body with bodyweight squats. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and back straight as you lower your body. Do three sets of 15-20 squats to tone your legs and buttocks. 4. Plank Enhance your core strength by holding a plank. Start with 30-second intervals and gradually increase your time as you build endurance. Remember to keep your body in a straight line from head to heels. 5. High Knees Get your heart pumping with high knees. Run in place, bringing your knees up to your chest as high as possible. Challenge yourself with one-minute intervals, aiming for quick and controlled movements. 6. Stair Climbing If you have stairs at home, use them for a great cardio workout. Walk or run up and down the stairs repeatedly for 5-10 minutes. This exercise not only boosts your heart rate but also tones your leg muscles. 7. Chair Dips Use a sturdy chair to perform chair dips, targeting your triceps. Sit on the edge of the chair, hands next to your hips, and lower your body off the chair, then push back up. Complete three sets of 10-12 dips. 8. Yoga Unroll your yoga mat for some stretching and relaxation. Choose a sequence that suits your level and goals, focusing on poses that enhance flexibility, balance, and strength. 9. Shadow Boxing No equipment? No problem. Shadow boxing is an excellent way to release stress and improve your agility. Find a comfortable spot and throw punches in the air, incorporating some footwork to keep it interesting. 10. Dance Party End your workout with a fun dance party. Put on your favorite upbeat tracks and dance freely around your living room. It’s a joyful way to burn calories and lift your spirits on a gloomy day. Rainy days don't have to mean a break from your fitness goals. With these 10 indoor exercises, you can keep active and healthy, no matter the weather. Remember to warm up before you start and cool down afterward to keep your muscles in good shape. Stay fit and have fun indoors!
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