Do you ever take your car in for a routine oil change? Well, similar to a car, your body also needs some fine tuning every once in a while. Though your body is not a machine, the practice of taking preventive measures to ensure that it continues to function efficiently is the same. This article will cover the top four things that your body needs to survive.

• • • All about the nervous system

The nervous system is the communication system for your body. There is constant communication between your brain and your body through electrical impulses. Your life relies on efficiency of this communication. If this communication were to be shut down or interfered with in any way, it would lead to adverse health effects. Your nervous system is one of the most important systems in your body. 

Health tip for your nervous system:

While your body is full of nerves and nervous system tissues, your spine houses the nerves that carry messages throughout the body. Optimal spinal health will set you up for an optimal functioning nervous system. There are a number of factors that contribute to spinal health, including good posture, and proper spinal alignment. Chiropractic adjustments are a great way to ensure that your spine and nervous system are free from any interference. 

• • • Stop and breathe the oxygen

Oxygen is the second most important thing for basic health. Your body relies on the oxygen that you breathe in everyday. The way you breathe, meaning how deeply you breathe, and how often can affect your nervous system and cellular function. You may not even know it but most people either hold their breath during stressful times, or take very shallow breaths. This type of breathing allows oxygen to flow into your lungs but not into your belly. Proper deep belly breathing is imperative for cellular function. As a plus, deep breathing is also associated with an improved mental state.

Health tip for deep breathing:

At least three times a day (morning, afternoon, and night) set aside some time to practice your deep breathing. Use this time to quiet your mind and focus on your breathing. Focus on taking a big inhale in, letting the oxygen flow through your lungs and into your belly, and fully exhaling everything. Repeat as needed. 

• • • Drink your water

Water comes in third on the list for the things your body needs to survive. Water is fundamental to every cell in your body and is one of the most important basic health requirements. Your body requires water. Yet, most individuals do not drink enough water or drink poor quality water. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in water fluid ounces. 

Health tip for drinking water:

If you are unsure if you are drinking enough water, start tracking your water intake. Carry a water bottle with you at all times. Be aware of the amount of water you drink on a daily basis.

• • • Food is fuel

Food is last on the list, but that does not negate its importance. Food fuels your body, and the type of food you eat, will determine what type of fuel your body will run on. Eating whole foods and avoiding processed foods as much as possible will help improve your health.

Health tip for fueling your body:

When in doubt, eat more vegetables. Vegetables should make up the majority of your diet. 

If you are interested in a spinal alignment, consider a consult with a chiropractic doctor Shawnee, KS who can help create a healing treatment plan for you. Chiropractors are trained in providing treatment plans to help manage pain and heal injuries in a holistic manner.

Thanks to LifeWorks for their insights on the top four things your body needs to survive, as well as alternative medicine.