TL;DR: February is a time for love and connection, but true well-being starts with self-care. Good posture and spinal health support heart and lung function, while stress relief practices and chiropractic care help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation. Prioritising your own well-being allows you to show up more fully in life and relationships.
February is often seen as the month of love, a time to nurture relationships and celebrate connection. However, true well-being begins with self-care. When we take the time to support our bodies and minds, we create the foundation for stronger relationships—not just with others, but with ourselves. Spinal health plays a key role in this, influencing posture, heart and lung function, stress levels, and overall well-being. By prioritising self-care, we enhance both our physical and emotional resilience, allowing us to engage more fully in life.

The Importance of Self-Care and Body Awareness
Self-care is often misunderstood as an indulgence when, in reality, it is essential for overall health. A body that is tense, misaligned, or fatigued can contribute to stress and discomfort, making it harder to feel present and engaged. Taking time to nurture our well-being through movement, breathwork, and mindfulness can lead to improved emotional balance and energy levels (Porges, 2017).
Posture, Spinal Health, and Heart-Lung Function
Good posture does more than improve appearance—it plays a vital role in heart and lung function. Poor posture, especially slouching or forward head posture, can compress the ribcage, reducing lung capacity and making breathing less efficient. Research suggests that upright posture enhances respiratory function and cardiovascular efficiency, as it allows the diaphragm and ribcage to move freely (Kapandji, 2018). Additionally, spinal misalignments can place unnecessary strain on the nervous system, impacting circulation and overall well-being (Pickar, 2002).
Tips for Maintaining a Heart-Healthy Posture:
Sit and stand tall with shoulders relaxed and aligned over the hips.
Engage in exercises that strengthen postural muscles, such as yoga or pilates.
Take regular breaks from prolonged sitting to move and stretch.
Be mindful of screen time and the position of your head and neck.

Practices for Stress Relief and Emotional Well-being
Stress has a direct impact on both physical and emotional health. High stress levels can contribute to muscle tension, headaches, poor sleep, and even increased risk of cardiovascular issues (McEwen, 2007). Engaging in simple stress-relief practices can help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation:
Mindful Breathing:Â Deep, diaphragmatic breathing can calm the nervous system and support heart function.
Gentle Movement:Â Yoga, stretching, and walking can reduce tension and improve circulation.
Gratitude and Reflection:Â Taking time each day to acknowledge positive aspects of life can boost mood and emotional resilience.
How Chiropractic Care Supports the Nervous System and Relaxation
Chiropractic care is often associated with spinal alignment, but its benefits extend to the nervous system and overall well-being. Research indicates that spinal adjustments may help regulate the autonomic nervous system, reducing stress responses and improving heart rate variability (Haavik et al., 2018). When the spine is well-aligned, the body can function more efficiently, supporting relaxation, circulation, and energy balance.
Potential Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Well-being:
May reduce tension-related discomfort, improving relaxation.
Can support nervous system regulation, enhancing stress resilience.
Helps optimise spinal alignment, promoting better posture and circulation.
Prioritising Self-Care for a Balanced Life
Taking care of your spine, posture, and nervous system is a form of self-love that supports not only your physical health but also your ability to connect with others. As February encourages us to focus on relationships, remember that the relationship with yourself is just as important. By prioritising well-being, you create a solid foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
If you're ready to prioritise self-care and support your well-being this season, consider booking a chiropractic consultation with us. Let's help you feel your best—inside and out!
Dr. Katie Graham DC
Doctor of Chiropractic

References
Haavik, H., Niazi, I. K., Holt, K., Amjad, I., Pujari, A. N., & Henderson, C. N. (2018). The effects of chiropractic spinal adjustments on central processing of input from paraspinal muscles: A crossover study using somatosensory evoked potentials. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 12, 111.
Kapandji, I. A. (2018). Physiology of the Joints Volume Three: The Spinal Column, Pelvis and Thorax (7th ed.). Elsevier.
McEwen, B. S. (2007). Physiology and neurobiology of stress and adaptation: Central role of the brain. Physiological Reviews, 87(3), 873-904.
Pickar, J. G. (2002). Neurophysiological effects of spinal manipulation. The Spine Journal, 2(5), 357-371.
Porges, S. W. (2017). The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory: The Transformative Power of Feeling Safe. W. W. Norton & Company.
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