Hello! I’m Harrison Gilbert, Doctor of Chiropractic and Clinical Team Manager here at Life Balance. Outside of work, I’m often out hiking along the Dorset coastline – movement is something I’m passionate about both in and out of the clinic. This month’s newsletter is all about getting active. With National Walking Month and Spinal Awareness Week underway, we’re sharing tips on how walking can support your spine, a healthy snack recipe for days on the go and recent patient stories. Plus, don’t miss details of our Patient Appreciation Day on 14th June. Step into Spring with Strength Last month, we encouraged our community to get active with our Spring Movement Challenge. It was fantastic to see so many of you embracing daily walks, stretches, and gentle activity. Your stories have been inspiring – and it’s a timely reminder that consistent movement, however small, goes a long way in supporting spinal health. 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
CLIENTS OF THE WEEK This feature is showcasing a few of our wonderful clients of the week. We have seen some life-changing improvements in our clients and we can’t wait to share even more with you Elizabeth’s Story: From Daily Pain to Getting Back to Movement Before coming to Life Balance, Elizabeth was struggling with daily lower back and left hip pain, alongside discomfort in her neck and shoulders. It had a big impact on her life – even short walks became painful, and she had to give up running and other sports she enjoyed. “If I did 6,000 steps, I’d be in terrible pain,” she said. “It was affecting my sleep too.” Since starting care, she’s noticed a “light years difference.” Her hip and back pain have eased significantly, her neck and shoulders feel freer, and she’s no longer relying on painkillers. “I move better, I sleep better – and I’m back to walking further again.” She also credits the Denneroll tool with helping restore the natural curve in her lower back. “It’s a bit uncomfortable at first, but the blood flow gets going again and it really helps.” When asked if she’d recommend Life Balance, her answer was simple: “If you have any problem related to your spine – and most things probably are – don’t hesitate. Life Balance is great. I’d recommend them every time.” Emily Greenslade I went to Life Balance from a friends recommendation as I was suffering with headaches... Dr Harrison was very thorough with his investigations and I felt he definitely knew what he was talking about. I had x-rays carried out and then a 12 session programme was discussed and set up, I’m about half way through and not regretting it. I would highly recommend. 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
WALKING FOR WELLNESS Why a Simple Stroll Can Support Your Spine and Whole-Body Health May marks National Walking Month, and there’s no better time to focus on how something as simple as walking can have a profound impact on your health – especially your spinal health. Walking is a low-impact, weight-bearing exercise that helps strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and maintain a healthy spine. When we walk, we naturally engage the muscles that support the spine – particularly those in the lower back and core – helping to keep our posture upright and balanced. For many people, regular walking can reduce stiffness, ease lower back pain, and increase overall mobility. But the benefits don’t stop there. Here’s what 30 minutes of daily walking can do for you: Improves circulation – helping to deliver nutrients to spinal tissues and reduce inflammation. Boosts mood and mental clarity – walking stimulates the release of endorphins and reduces stress, which often contributes to muscle tension and pain. Supports joint health – gentle, regular movement keeps joints lubricated and reduces stiffness, particularly in the hips and spine. Encourages better posture – walking mindfully, with your head up and shoulders back, can counteract some of the effects of sitting for long periods. Promotes better sleep – being outdoors and moving daily can help regulate your sleep-wake cycle and improve rest quality, which is key to healing and recovery. Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support spinal health – but a few small adjustments can make a big difference to how beneficial (and comfortable) your walks are. Here are our top tips to help you walk well and protect your spine: Choose well-cushioned, supportive footwear to reduce impact. Walk on flat, even terrain where possible. Avoid carrying heavy bags on one shoulder – use a backpack to distribute weight evenly. If walking longer distances, incorporate short stretching sessions before and after. Keep a gentle pace that allows you to maintain an upright posture and relaxed breathing. As part of Spinal Awareness Week (12–16 May), we encourage you to make walking part of your daily routine – whether it’s a short walk around the block, a coastal stroll, or an outdoor catch-up with a friend. It’s one of the easiest ways to support your spine and take care of your wellbeing. Why not set yourself a daily walking goal this week and see how you feel? And if you’d like personalised advice on posture, movement, or spinal health, book in with one of our chiropractors – we’re here to help you move well and feel better. 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
ASK THE CHIRO... In each edition we will be answering your questions. Do you have a question for the chiropractor you think others may want to know the answer to also? Send your questions to emily@lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk Please write to us with your questions. Q. A. Can I perform my own spinal adjustments? You can, but we don’t recommend it. It’s dangerous to adjust your own neck or back if you don’t have training in chiropractic care. You might damage your spine or make your symptoms worse. Call us ASAP if you’re tempted to perform your own adjustments. We’re here to help! WELCOMES & THANK YOUS A very warm welcome to all our new clients this month – we're so pleased to have you as part of the Life Balance community. And a heartfelt thank you to those who referred a friend. Your support means so much and helps others discover the benefits of chiropractic care. 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
SPINAL AWARENESS WEEK What You Might Not Know About Your Spine – and Why It Matters Spinal Awareness Week is a great reminder that your spine plays a central role in everything you do – from your movement and coordination to your energy levels, digestion, and even your mood. Your spine isn’t just a column of bones; it’s a highly complex structure that houses and protects your spinal cord – the central channel of communication between your brain and your body. Misalignment or restriction in the spine can cause nerve interference, which in turn may lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, and a host of other health issues. Here are five lesser-known facts about your spine and spinal health: A healthy spine supports your immune system. When your nervous system functions optimally, your body is better equipped to defend against illness. Chiropractic adjustments help keep your nervous system free of interference, promoting natural immunity. SPOTTED ? Your posture directly affects your breathing and digestion. Poor posture – often caused by prolonged sitting, stress, or device use – can compress internal organs and limit lung capacity. Standing tall and moving often helps to keep everything functioning as it should. Your spine absorbs thousands of micro-stresses every day. From slouching at a desk to carrying children, your spine is under constant pressure. Regular chiropractic care can help relieve accumulated tension and restore balance. Pain is often the last signal your body gives. Many spinal issues develop silently before discomfort begins. Preventative care – including chiropractic adjustments, stretching, and movement – can help avoid problems before they arise. “Many spinal issues develop silently before discomfort begins.” Good spinal health supports emotional wellbeing. The mind-body connection is powerful. Studies have shown that spinal misalignment and tension can contribute to fatigue, anxiety, and reduced mental focus. Aligning the body helps reset the nervous system and improve mental clarity. This week, take a moment to check in with your body. Are you holding tension in your shoulders or lower back? Is your posture relaxed and upright, or are you curled forward over a screen? Even a few adjustments to your daily routine – like taking walking breaks, stretching, or booking a chiropractic check-in – can make a big difference. We’re here to help you feel your best, from the inside out. If it’s been a while since your last appointment, Spinal Awareness Week is the perfect time to prioritise your spinal health. 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
Nutty Energy Bites Whether you're heading out for a coastal stroll, walking the dog, or joining us in celebrating National Walking Month, having a wholesome snack to hand can help keep your energy levels steady and support your wellbeing on the go. These Nutty Energy Bites are quick to make, easy to pack, and filled with nourishing ingredients that give you a slow, sustained release of energy. They’re also great for keeping in the fridge for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. INGREDIENTS 100g rolled oats 120g almond butter 85g runny honey 20g chia seeds 45g dark chocolate chips 30g chopped nuts (e.g. almonds, walnuts or cashews) INSTRUCTIONS Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Roll into bite-sized balls (about the size of a walnut). Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up. Pop a few into a container and take them with you – they’re the ideal grab-and-go energy boost. 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
Know Someone Who’s Struggling with Pain? Let’s Help Them Together. At Life Balance Chiropractic, we’re passionate about helping people feel better, move more freely, and get back to doing what they love. And we know that many of our most meaningful connections come from you – our existing clients – sharing your experience with others. If you know a friend, family member or colleague who’s been living with headaches, migraines, back or neck pain, we’d love to meet them. Life Balance’s Share the Care Fortnight 12–25 May Ġ You’ve felt the benefits of chiropractic care – now’s your chance to help someone you care about do the same. Here’s what you’ll both receive: They’ll receive a FREE consultation (usually £165), including a full assessment and tailored recommendations You’ll receive 9 bonus loyalty points for every referral who books (instead of the usual 3!) Points can be redeemed for a free chiropractic adjustment or massage – a little thank you from us EVENTS @ LIFE BALANCE We’ve opened our space on selected dates for posture checks, spinal health assessments, and informative health talks. These events are a great opportunity for people in our community to better understand what might be causing their discomfort – and to find out if chiropractic care could help. UPCOMING SCAN EVENTS HERE Don’t Forget – Patient Appreciation Day: 14th June Come along to our friendly event for us to say thank you and welcome new faces. Enjoy refreshments, mini massages, skin consultations, kids’ crafts, and Meet local wellness partners. SHARE MY UNIQUE REFERRAL LINK NOW 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
WORD SEARCH To mark Spinal Awareness Week and National Walking Month, here’s a quick word search packed with wellness and spine-friendly terms. Enjoy a mindful moment while you find them! YOUR HEALTH, YOUR WEALTH As we head into a season of movement, fresh air and renewed energy, we hope this month’s tips, stories and updates inspire you to take small, meaningful steps towards better health every day. We’ll leave you with one of our favourite reminders: “It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold or silver.” - Mahatma Gandhi 53 LAGLAND STREET, BH15 1QD | 01202 684859 | www.lifebalancechiropractic.co.uk
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