Empowering Your Body's Self-Healing

Simple Self-Care Practices to Support Osteopathic Treatments

By Justine Bullen, DOMP

     At Kingsway Wellness, we believe in the incredible ability of your body to heal itself. This philosophy is at the heart of manual osteopathy, which works by encouraging natural alignment and balance within the body.

The benefits of your osteopathy and massage sessions can be even more impactful when combined with a few simple practices at home. By creating supportive habits, you can allow your body’s own self-healing mechanisms and enhance the long-lasting benefits of your treatments. 

As we approach the holiday season—a time often filled with both joy and added demands—it’s especially important to make self-care a priority. Here are some easy-to-implement tips to help you stay grounded, reduce stress, and promote healing between treatments. 

1. Practice Simple Breathing Techniques: Taking a few moments throughout the day to focus on your breath can have a profound effect on your nervous system, helping to reduce tension and boost relaxation. Try a simple breathing exercise like box breathing: inhale for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four. Repeat this cycle several times to centre yourself and encourage calm. 

2. Go for a Mindful Walk: Make sure to take a break to step outside and walk, even if it’s just for a few minutes! As you walk, focus on each step, notice the sensations in your body, and observe your surroundings without judgement. This practice not only increases circulation but also serves as a mental reset, supporting both physical and emotional well-being. 

3. Stretch Away Work Desk Stiffness: Sitting for long periods can strain your muscles and joints, often leading to tightness in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Simple desk stretches like shoulder rolls, neck tilts, and seated spinal twists can relieve tension and improve posture. By breaking up long sitting periods, you’ll feel more relaxed and energized, helping to extend the benefits of your treatments. Ask your practitioner for examples, we’d be happy to help offer suggestions!

4. Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key for overall health and can directly impact how your body responds to treatments. Drinking water helps remove waste, keeps your joints lubricated, and supports cellular health. Try keeping a water bottle on hand and set gentle reminders to sip throughout the day—your body will thank you!

5. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene: Sleep is essential for your body’s recovery and repair processes. To improve sleep quality, establish a calming bedtime routine and try to go to bed at a consistent time. Limit screen time before bed and create a restful environment to help you wake up feeling refreshed and better equipped to face the day. 

6. Take Care of Yourself This Season The holiday season can bring additional social and work obligations, making it easy to let self-care slide. But by implementing these small practices, you can help your body stay balanced and resilient, enhancing the benefits of your manual osteopathy and massage sessions. If you have questions about how to incorporate these practices into your routine, or want to learn more about manual osteopathy, feel free to reach out at your next session. At Kingsway Wellness, we’re here to support your journey toward natural healing and wellness. Book your appointment here! 

Thank you for being a part of our community at Kingsway Wellness. We’re here to support you on your wellness journey this fall! Book your next appointment here.