A Journey Beyond Indulgence: Exploring the Great Southern Railway

Traversing the vast expanse of Australia by rail is an experience that promises both adventure and luxury. Recently, I had the extraordinary opportunity to embark on a four-day journey from Brisbane to Adelaide aboard the iconic Great Southern Railway, accompanied by my beloved mother. As a health professional and an enthusiastic advocate for wellness, I was curious to see how luxury travel could mesh with an active lifestyle.

Notably, our fellow passengers, mostly aged between 70 and 75, seemed to embrace a more sedentary approach to travel. The contrast between this relaxed demographic and the indulgent offerings of gourmet meals, fine wine, and champagne piqued my interest. I wondered: is it possible to enjoy such luxuries within the confines of a train while staying committed to health and wellbeing?

With that question in mind, I set myself a challenge. I decided to make health a priority on this journey by incorporating daily physical activity into the experience. My plan was simple yet ambitious: each day, I would walk 5 kilometres within the train's 1.64-kilometre length. Additionally, I wanted to incorporate resistance exercises, aiming to promote both strength and bone density. Armed with two 3-litre containers of orange juice and a laundry bag, I set out to transform our journey into a holistic health retreat on wheels.

Every morning, as the train glided across the breathtaking Australian landscape, I began my exercise regimen. With each step and every repetition, I felt a deep connection to both my surroundings and my sense of purpose. The train’s spacious corridors and panoramic windows provided a spectacular backdrop, making each kilometre walked a scenic experience. I took full advantage of the Great Southern Railway’s unique setting, finding solace in my routine amidst the plush interiors and beautiful vistas.

Incorporating resistance training into my regimen proved to be both practical and effective. Utilising the makeshift weights I had fashioned from orange juice containers and a laundry bag, I engaged in a series of strength-building exercises. From shoulder presses to squats, each movement served to challenge my muscles and fortify my bones, all while preserving the essence of elegance and sophistication that permeated the atmosphere of the train.

As the journey progressed, I felt invigorated by the synergy between health and indulgence. While others embraced the leisurely pace of luxury travel, I relished the opportunity to nurture my body. Conversations with fellow travellers often turned to wellness, with many expressing curiosity about my fitness routine. My commitment to health seemed to inspire a collective sense of vitality among the passengers and train staff, reinforcing the idea that age or location need not limit one’s dedication to well-being.

Interestingly, my fitness challenge attracted the attention of the Executive General Manager, who happened to be on board. As a fellow 40-something, he was intrigued by my experience and eager to understand my perspective on the journey. He initially held the notion that someone my age might not typically have the finances to partake in such luxury, but I countered that perspective. In my view, it wasn’t a lack of finances that deterred my demographic from such experiences; it was the perception that luxury rail travel is inherently sedentary, which might not appeal to those leading active lifestyles. I wanted to show that with a little creativity, even a luxury train journey could be invigorating and health-enhancing.

As our journey drew to a close and we arrived at our destination in Adelaide, I reflected upon the profound lessons gleaned from my time aboard the Great Southern Railway. In a world where indulgence often seems at odds with health, I had discovered a harmonious synergy, wherein luxury and wellness coalesced to create an enriching and transformative experience.

Indeed, my journey had been a testament to the notion that health knows no bounds – not even the confines of a luxury train. Through mindful movement and a commitment to holistic well-being, I had unlocked a newfound appreciation for the inherent beauty of balance, proving that one can savour life's pleasures without compromising on vitality. As I bid farewell to the Great Southern Railway and embarked upon the next chapter of my journey, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to health – a testament to the enduring legacy of a truly unforgettable voyage. Dr Vivienne Brimelow

Unlocking the Secrets to Living Pain-Free: The Power of Chiropractic Care with Neurac's Neuromuscular Rehabilitation

September marks Pain Awareness Month and shines a spotlight on the effective pain management solutions available for managing pain. It's important to explore holistic approaches that offer comprehensive relief and even overcome chronic pain. 

Chiropractic care is renowned for its' ability to address musculoskeletal issues but combining it with Neurac's neuromuscular rehabilitation takes pain resolution to a new level. 

In this blog post, we'll delve into this innovative approach, uncover its benefits, and invite you to experience the transformative power of our unique model of care.

A Holistic Approach to Pain Relief

Chiropractic care's foundation lies in restoring spinal alignment to enhance overall health. While chiropractic adjustments play a crucial role in this process, combining them with Neurac's neuromuscular rehabilitation creates a synergy that offers more efficient pain resolution. Neurac focuses on neuromuscular activation and re-education, complementing chiropractic care's principles to address the root causes of pain comprehensively.

The Science Behind Neurac's Neuromuscular Rehabilitation

Neurac's neuromuscular rehabilitation is rooted in the understanding that pain often stems from imbalances in the neuromuscular system. Muscles and nerves work intricately to support movement and maintain stability. Disruptions in this system can lead to pain and dysfunction. Neurac employs Redcord suspension exercises, targeting deep stabilizing muscles to restore balance and eliminate pain triggers at their source.

The Benefits of Combining Chiropractic Care and Neurac

Targeted Pain Resolution: By combining chiropractic adjustments with Neurac's neuromuscular rehabilitation, we provide a multi-faceted approach to pain relief. We address both spinal alignment and neuromuscular imbalances, ensuring a more efficient and effective resolution of pain.

Enhanced Recovery: Neurac's exercises strengthen weak muscles and re-educate the neuromuscular system, enhancing the body's natural ability to heal and recover. This synergy accelerates the rehabilitation process, leading to quicker and longer-lasting pain relief.

Comprehensive Healing: Our unique model of care focuses not only on alleviating pain symptoms but also on addressing the underlying causes of discomfort. This holistic approach results in a more complete and enduring healing process.

Personalized Treatment Plans: Just as with chiropractic care, our approach is tailored to each individual's needs. Our expert practitioners develop personalized treatment plans to target your specific pain points and goals.

Unlock the Secrets to Living Pain-Free with Our Approach

Experience Enhanced Results: Our combination of chiropractic care and Neurac's neuromuscular rehabilitation offers a comprehensive solution for pain relief that surpasses traditional methods.

Faster Recovery: The synergy between these two approaches accelerates your body's healing processes, ensuring quicker and longer-lasting recovery.

Improved Quality of Life: Living pain-free enhances your overall well-being. Our approach not only alleviates pain but also restores your body's functional harmony, allowing you to enjoy life to the fullest.

In conclusion, as Pain Awareness Month prompts us to seek effective pain management solutions, our approach combining chiropractic care and Neurac's neuromuscular rehabilitation stands out as a holistic and efficient way to unlock a pain-free life. By addressing both spinal alignment and neuromuscular imbalances, we offer a pathway to comprehensive healing and enhanced well-being. Don't miss out on experiencing the transformative power of our unique model of care – book our new patient offer today and take the first step towards living pain-free.

Dr Vivienne Brimelow BSc, MChiro, DC, Neuromuscular Rehabilitation Specialist

Book Your Appointment: Ready to take the step towards a pain-free life? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the transformative power of our unique model of care.

Climbing High and Staying Safe: Chiropractic Care for Mountaineers

Mountaineering is a thrilling and adventurous sport that requires not just physical endurance, but also the proper gear and equipment. One of the most important pieces of equipment that every mountaineer must-have is a backpack. A backpack serves as a crucial storage space for essential items like food, water, shelter, and clothing. But, more importantly, a backpack also helps distribute weight evenly, reducing stress and strain on the spine and other joints.

However, wearing a mountaineering backpack incorrectly can have severe consequences, leading to injuries and discomfort. This is why it is crucial to understand the correct way to wear a backpack and how to adjust it to suit your individual needs. In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of wearing a mountaineering backpack correctly and how to avoid stress on the spine and other injuries.

Why is it Important to Wear a Mountaineering Backpack Correctly?

The spine and joints of the body are incredibly delicate and susceptible to injury, especially when subjected to repetitive stress and strain. When carrying a backpack, weight is placed on the shoulders, hips, and back, which can lead to discomfort, pain, and injury if not worn correctly.

Carrying a heavy load can cause stress and strain on the spine, leading to conditions like lower back pain and herniated discs. The hips, knees, and ankles can also be affected by improper backpack use, leading to conditions like tendinitis, bursitis, and even fractures.

Correct Fit

The first and most important step to wearing a mountaineering backpack correctly is ensuring that it fits properly. A properly fitting backpack should sit comfortably on the hips, with the shoulder straps supporting the weight of the pack. The shoulder straps should not dig into the neck or shoulder, and the hip belt should be snug enough to transfer weight from the shoulders to the hips.

The Osprey pack displayed here has an adjustable torso length feature, which enables you to modify the placement of the harness by sliding it up or down to match your back length precisely. The result should be a snug fit with no gap between your back and the pack. If there is a gap, adjust the back length to eliminate it.

When you have put the pack on your back comfortably, the first step in the adjustment process is to secure the hip belt strap. This is a crucial step, as the hip belt strap helps distribute the weight evenly across your legs and lower back, instead of putting strain on weaker areas like your shoulders and arms. For optimal comfort, aim to position the hip belt over the upper half of your pelvic bone.

After that, you need to tighten the harness straps by pulling them downwards, making sure the webbing on the harness is snug, similar to the way you would tighten the laces on your shoes. The harness should be tight enough to provide support without compromising your breathing or feeling too tight around your collarbone.

Finally, adjust the Load Lifters, which are the straps connecting the upper part of the main pack to the shoulder straps. You should pull them forward to ensure that the pack runs vertically along your back, creating a close center of gravity and allowing weight to transfer directly to the ground. The best angle for the Load Lifters is approximately 45 degrees, which will keep the pack aligned with your back.

Finally, securing the chest strap (also known as the sternum strap) will bring the harness closer to your chest and away from areas that have many blood vessels and nerves. It is important to ensure that the harness is not too tight, as this can restrict breathing, but if the sternum strap is too loose, you may experience tingling or numbness in your fingers.

Load Distribution

It is crucial to ensure that the weight of the backpack is distributed evenly across the back. This can be achieved by properly packing the backpack and adjusting the straps. The heaviest items should be placed closest to the back, with lighter items placed at the top and bottom. The shoulder straps should be tightened enough to prevent the backpack from bouncing around, but not so tight that they restrict movement.

Proper Adjustment

The shoulder straps and hip belt of a mountaineering backpack can be adjusted to fit individual needs. The shoulder straps should be adjusted so that they sit comfortably on the shoulders and transfer weight from the back to the hips. The hip belt should be adjusted so that it sits snugly on the hips and transfers weight from the shoulders to the hips.

Wearing a mountaineering backpack correctly is essential to avoid stress and strain on the spine and other joints. A proper fitting backpack, with weight distributed evenly, will reduce the risk of injury and discomfort. By ensuring that the backpack fits correctly, adjusting the straps and hip belt, and properly packing the backpack, mountaineers can enjoy a safe and comfortable experience in the great outdoors.

In addition to wearing a mountaineering backpack correctly, it's also important for mountaineers to take steps to maintain their physical health and well-being. One important aspect of this is visiting a chiropractor.

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, particularly those affecting the spine and nervous system. They can help mountaineers address and prevent a range of issues, including:

Lower back pain: Carrying a heavy backpack for extended periods of time can put a lot of stress on the lower back, leading to pain and discomfort. A chiropractor can help alleviate this pain and prevent future injury.

Joint pain: Mountaineers are often subjected to repetitive stress and strain on the joints, which can lead to pain and inflammation. Chiropractors can provide treatment and advice to help manage this pain and prevent further injury.

Posture: Poor posture while carrying a backpack can lead to a range of musculoskeletal problems. Chiropractors can help mountaineers improve their posture and reduce their risk of injury.

Injuries: If a mountaineer experiences an injury while climbing, a chiropractor can provide effective treatment and advice to help manage the injury and prevent further complications.

In conclusion, visiting a chiropractor should be an important part of a mountaineer's physical wellness routine. Regular check-ups and treatments can help prevent injury, manage pain, and improve overall health and well-being, allowing mountaineers to continue their adventurous pursuits safely and comfortably.

If you would like further information and learn how Chiropractic can assist you on your health journey, click on the link below:

https://www.chiropaedic.com.au/

References: https://www.ospreyeurope.com/

Mental Health & the Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being and it affects every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to our work performance. Unfortunately, mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression are becoming increasingly common, and traditional forms of treatment, such as therapy and medication, may not be enough to provide complete relief. This is why many individuals are turning to complementary forms of treatment, including chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care is a form of healthcare that focuses on the relationship between the body's structure, mainly the spine, and its function, and how this relationship can affect overall health and well-being. In recent years, research has shown that chiropractic care can have a positive impact on mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

   

One of the ways in which chiropractic care can benefit mental health is by reducing stress. Stress can take a toll on both our physical and mental health, and chiropractic adjustments can help to reduce tension in the muscles and joints, thus reducing the overall stress levels in the body. This can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Researchers in New Zealand demonstrated the effect of slumped or straightened posture on the hearts and minds of the subjects in a study (1). Their blood pressure and heart rates were measured as they completed a series of tasks designed to assess their mood, self-esteem and stress levels.

"The upright participants reported feeling more enthusiastic, excited, and strong, while the slumped participants reported feeling more fearful, hostile, nervous, quiet, still, passive, dull, sleepy, and sluggish,” New Zealand study authors write. Good posture was also associated with higher self-esteem, less social fear and fewer negative emotions. Additionally, they also had stronger pulse responses than their slumped colleagues.

Chiropractic care aims to improve posture by addressing any misalignments in the spine and restoring proper spinal function. When the spine is properly aligned, it allows for the muscles and tissues to support the body in an optimal position, reducing strain and promoting good posture. The improved posture, in turn, can lead to benefits such as reduced pain and improved mood, self-esteem, and stress levels, as demonstrated in the New Zealand study. By reducing spinal misalignments and promoting good posture, chiropractic care can help individuals experience the positive effects associated with good posture, such as feeling more enthusiastic and less fearful, as well as reducing negative emotions and improving self-esteem.

 

Depression is commonly associated with having less energy. Less energy can lead to more depressive thinking. It can be a terrible cycle. In another study, researchers looked at how body posture affects energy levels (2). The subjects were then divided into two groups and asked to perform one of two movement patterns for about three minutes (walking in a slouched posture or skipping). After the exercise, the subjects rated their personal energy level and described their subjective experience. Succeeding, they then exchanged to the other movement pattern and again rated their new experience. From the results of this study, the researchers concluded that energy level could increase or decrease depending on posture. The results indicate that the mind-body relationship goes both ways: the mind influences the body and the body influences the mind.

Additionally, chiropractic care can also improve the body's production of hormones that are important for regulating mood and emotions, such as serotonin and dopamine. Research has found that chiropractic adjustments can increase the production of these hormones, which can have a positive impact on mood and mental well-being. Additionally, chiropractic care can also help to reduce levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which can contribute to anxiety and depression.

Another benefit of chiropractic care is that it can improve sleep. Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health, and individuals with sleep disorders are at an increased risk of developing mental health conditions. Chiropractic care can help to improve sleep by reducing pain and promoting relaxation, which can have a positive impact on mental health.

In conclusion, chiropractic care can provide numerous benefits for mental health, from reducing stress to improving hormone levels and sleep. However, it's important to note that chiropractic care should not be used as a sole treatment for mental health conditions, and individuals should also seek care from a mental health professional. If you're looking for an alternative form of treatment for your mental health condition, consider exploring the benefits of chiropractic care.

If you would like further information and learn how Chiropractic can assist you on your health journey, click on the link below:

https://www.chiropaedic.com.au/

References:

1. http://time.com/3394589/slumping-makes-you-sad/

2. Peper E, Lin IM. Increase or decrease depression: How body postures influence your energy level. Biofeedback. 2012; 40(3): 125-130.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/WPTr7AjCxd0″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Barefoot Running - Can our bodies bare it?

Barefoot Running has become increasingly popular in recent years as people have started to understand the numerous benefits that come from it. Unlike running with shoes, barefoot running requires a different technique that can help reduce the risk of injury and increase power and performance.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Noosa, Australia and I took full advantage of my time there by incorporating barefoot running into my daily routine. Every day, I would run 5km on the beautiful sandy beaches of Noosa, wearing my Merrell Barefoot Running shoes. The experience was truly amazing and I would like to share my thoughts on why it was so special.

• The Surroundings: The beaches in Noosa are some of the most beautiful in the world, and running  barefoot on the sand added to the overall experience. The sand provided a soft, natural surface for my feet, and the scenery was breathtaking, making each run a joy and a meditative experience.

• Improved Performance: The Barefoot running shoes allowed me to run with more precision and control, giving me the feeling of running barefoot while still providing some protection to my feet. The shoes provided just enough support, but also allowed my feet to work and move naturally, improving my performance and overall running experience.

• Reduced Impact: Running on the sand helped to reduce the impact on my joints and made each run less stressful on my body. I was able to run longer and harder without the risk of overuse injuries or pain.

• Improved Foot Strength: Running barefoot on the sand required my feet to work harder, which helped improve my foot strength and stability. This is a crucial benefit for anyone looking to improve their overall fitness and performance.

My visit to Noosa and the daily 5km barefoot runs on the beach was an unforgettable experience. It allowed me to experience the benefits of barefoot running in a beautiful and natural environment, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their running performance and overall fitness.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, incorporating barefoot running into your routine can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being. 

Here are a few reasons why barefoot running is so beneficial, and how to do it correctly to maximize the benefits.

Benefits of Barefoot Running:

• Improved Foot and Ankle Strength: When you run barefoot, your feet and ankles have to work harder to maintain balance and stability, leading to stronger muscles in these areas.

• Increased Balance and Proprioception: By removing shoes or wearing "Barefoot Running" shoes, you are forcing your feet and ankles to work harder to maintain balance, which improves your overall stability and ability to react quickly to changes in terrain.

• Better Running Form: Barefoot running tends to naturally encourage a midfoot or forefoot strike, which is considered to be a more efficient and less injury-prone form of running.

• Reduced Risk of Injuries: Running barefoot reduces the impact on your joints and helps prevent overuse injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints.

The Art of Barefoot Running: There is a definitive art to Barefoot running as compared to foot placement with regular running shoes.

 

• Gradual Transition: It is important to transition to barefoot running slowly, as your feet and legs need time to adapt to the new stress. Start by walking barefoot, then progress to short barefoot runs, gradually increasing distance and intensity.

• Focus on Foot Strike: Pay attention to where your foot strikes the ground. A midfoot or forefoot strike is more efficient and reduces the risk of injury.

• Keep Your Cadence High: Barefoot running naturally encourages a higher cadence, which helps reduce impact and increase efficiency. Aim for a cadence of around 180 steps per minute.

• Listen to Your Body: Running barefoot can be challenging, and it is important to listen to your body and avoid overdoing it. Take breaks when needed and pay attention to any pain or discomfort you may feel.

In addition to the tips mentioned above visiting a chiropractor can also be an important part of successful barefoot running. Chiropractors can help you assess your posture alignment and muscle imbalances that may be contributing to running injuries. By addressing these issues, a chiropractor can help prevent injury and improve your speed and performance when running.

Here are a few reasons why visiting a chiropractor can be so beneficial for barefoot runners:

1. Assess Running Form: A chiropractor can assess your running form and make recommendations for how to improve it, helping you run more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury.
2. Address Muscle Imbalances: Running barefoot can be hard on the feet and legs, muscle imbalances can lead to pain and injury. A chiropractor can help identify any muscle imbalances and provide exercises to correct them.
3. Improve Balance and Stability: Chiropractors can help improve your balance and stability by working on your posture, alignment and core strength, making you a better, stronger barefoot runner.
4. Prevent Injuries: By addressing any muscle imbalances, improving your posture and alignment, and ensuring that your running form is efficient, a chiropractor can help and prevent running injuries and keep you on the road.

In conclusion, the benefits of barefoot running are undeniable, but it requires a different technique to maximise those benefits and avoid injury. By transitioning gradually, focusing on foot strike, keeping your cadence high, and listening to your body, you can become a successful barefoot runner.

Visiting a chiropractor is an important step for anyone interested in barefoot running. A chiropractor can help you avoid injury, improve your speed and performance, and keep you on the road to success. By working with a chiropractor, you can become a better, stronger, and more efficient barefoot runner, reaping all the benefits of this powerful and effective form of exercise.

So grab your Barefoot running shoes and hit the beach, you won't regret it! 

Don't forget to schedule a visit to your chiropractor to help prevent injuries and improve your speed and performance.

Happy running!

Schedule your Barefoot Running consultation here:

https://chiropaedic.cliniko.com/bookings#schedule

When the legal process is a pain in the neck - We've got your back!

Being a lawyer can be a real pain in the neck, literally.

Lawyers often find themselves engrossed in their work, spending hours poring over documents and attending to various legal matters. However, these demanding tasks can sometimes manifest as more than just figurative burdens; they can become actual "pains in the neck."

However, a solution exists, and it might just revolutionize how legal professionals navigate the challenges of their careers: chiropractic care. Beyond its typical associations with bodily discomfort, chiropractic care has the potential to address the unique challenges of the legal field.

Realigning the Body: The sedentary nature of legal work can lead to various physical discomforts, leaving practitioners feeling like their bodies are in knots. Chiropractors specialise in alleviating such discomforts and restoring bodily alignment, offering respite from the strains of prolonged desk work.

Projecting Confidence: Imagine entering the courtroom with a commanding presence and impeccable posture. Chiropractic adjustments contribute to improved posture, enabling legal professionals to exude confidence and assurance. The impact of confident posture extends to courtrooms, negotiation tables, and beyond.

Embracing Serenity: The legal realm is notorious for its high-stress environment. Interestingly, chiropractic care isn't limited to physical well-being; it can also aid in stress reduction. By scheduling regular chiropractic adjustments, legal practitioners can better manage the stress inherent in their profession.

Chiropractic care is a form of healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, with an emphasis on the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques, including spinal manipulation and spinal decompression, to help alleviate pain, improve function, and promote overall health and wellbeing.

Regular chiropractic care can be especially beneficial for individuals who spend long hours sitting at a desk, as it can help to prevent or alleviate musculoskeletal problems that can arise from poor posture and sedentary behaviour. In addition, chiropractic care can help to strengthen the spine and improve flexibility, which can further reduce the risk of spinal injuries.

In essence, legal professionals seeking relief from physical discomfort, a bolstered presence in court, and effective stress management might find chiropractic care to be a valuable asset. Consider this avenue an investment in holistic well-being and professional success.

Overall, incorporating chiropractic care into a self-care routine can be an effective way for lawyers to prevent and manage spinal injuries, maintain their health and wellbeing and ultimately increase their billable hours, which definitely won't hurt!

Here's to unwinding those knots, standing tall and composed in every legal setting, and triumphing over each legal hurdle with a clear and focused mind. The next legal case could very well be the most victorious one yet, all thanks to the power of chiropractic support.

So, if you'd like to achieve that winning edge in and out of the courtroom, Contact Us today to discuss how chiropractic can fit into your lifestyle.

Stay informed, stay aligned, and stay triumphant!

Dr Vivienne Brimelow BSc, MChiro, DC, Neuromuscular and Occupational Rehabilitation Provider

Director