It’s only February, and you’ve probably abandoned every New Year’s resolution you made between Jaegermeister shots on Dec. 31. Well, it’s not too late to re-up your commitment to a healthier you.
Dr. Karim Harati-Zadeh, a double-certified acupuncturist and chiropractor with Spectrum Chiropractic on Lemmon Avenue, offers these four tips for making 2011 your healthiest year yet.
1. A year in review: Review your health status. What has your health been like for the last 12 months? Do you feel fit and energetic or are you tired all the time? Do you suffer from chronic pain, allergies, or anxiety? Don’t let problem areas fester. Identify points in your health that need attention immediately.
2. Setting goals: Do you want to be able to run up and down your stairway without pain and discomfort? Or do you want to get back in shape? Or just finally quit smoking? You need to make yourself ready to do something to address the stress and anxiety that you have been experiencing. Make sure to set realistic goals and avoid drastic measures such as a great amount of weight loss in a short period of time. Small steps yield long-term results that quick fixes don’t.
3. Analyze your health goals and get the proper help and motivation: The spirit is willing but the body may be weak. Make sure your body is primed to start an exercise program. Find out what additional resources you need to reach your health goals. I recommend all my patients to come in for an evaluation before getting started with an exercise program or starting a new diet.
4. Getting started: Today is a great day to get started. Don’t allow yourself to put your health goals on hold.
Karim Harati-Zadeh, DC, FIAMA, FASA, 3906 Lemmon Ave, Suite 214. 214-520-0092. SpectrumChiropractic.com.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition Feb. 18, 2011.
