Taking care of your self is not a 'luxury'. When you look at ways to save money or increase your savings, please do not try to take short cuts with your health.

A luxury item is something we can 'do without' to save some money. But when it is your own self that is neglected, you risk creating physical problems that will limit your ability to work, take care of the kids, house or other responsibilities. You are worth the time and money needed to keep your "self" in good working order.

Consider treating your whole body with the same care you give your teeth. You would not go without brushing your teeth! Do not go without healthy food, necessary vitamins or medications, daily movement/exercise, and the care and maintenance of your own body.

Read through the suggestions below and take advantage of an opportunity to treat your body wisely.

Tip #1: Take care to eat healthy.

With a diet of fresh fruits, vegetables and lean meats, the vitamins in these foods help keep your immune system at maximum health. Comfort foods should be consumed in moderation. It can be very easy to gain a few extra pounds when you'd rather stay inside and watch TV when it is cold outside.

Tip #2: Stick to It.

If you were one of those people that made a New Year's resolution to get more exercise, good for you! Keep it up and stick with it, you should start seeing results soon if you don't already.

If it has become boring, think about taking up an indoor activity such as dance lessons, kickboxing, swimming or what ever your interest is, just keep moving.

Tip #3: Don't burn the candle at both ends.

Take advantage of the extra darkness & get plenty of rest. Your immune system can become run down and leave you more susceptible to colds and infections. If you are having trouble sleeping, look for herbal sleep remedies. Take the quiz in the "Resources" section to see if you are getting enough sleep.

Tip #4: Make sure to drink plenty of water.

Ideally, you need to drink 8-8oz glasses a day for optimum health. Drinking water will help keep you hydrated.

Another benefit to drinking water is that it keeps your skin from becoming too dry.

Remember to use body cream after showers to lock in the moisture. Long, hot showers will dry you out more than short, warm showers because they remove the natural body oils.

Tip #5: Don't forget the vitamins.

If you happen to catch a cold, take vitamin C, zinc & Echinacea tablets to help reduce the duration of the cold. Throw away used tissue immediately to prevent spreading the virus and don't forget the anti-bacterial hand wash.

Tip #6: Get out and enjoy the brisk air.

Try to get out several times a week as weather permits, especially if you don't socialize by going to work. Winter months can become isolating and contribute to depression. To get outside and get some sun will help these feelings greatly. If you feel that you might need help with "seasonal affective disorder" (SAD) please see your doctor.

Tip #7: Have something to look forward to.

Daylight Savings time begins March 9th! Get ready to set your clock forward and gain another hour of sunlight.

Start shopping for seed packets and thinking of what wonderful vegetables you'll grow in your garden this summer.

Tip #8: Winter weather precautions.

Avoid overexertion such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor may cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill and hypothermia.

Tip #9: Dress for the season.

Wear loose, lightweight, warm clothes in layers. Trapped air insulates. Remove layers to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded. Wear a hat. Half your body heat loss can be from the head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Try to stay dry.

Tip #10: Take care of your body.

To help you out with this, we are offering a coupon for $10 off a Myofascial Release treatment (1 hour). Bring a copy of the coupon (below) to our office before March 31, 2008. One offer per person. Call our office at 734-913-4816 to schedule your appointment.

Joining us is Christie Donahee, registered massage therapist and personal trainer, who moved to Michigan this past June from Texas. She received a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Corporate Communications and Public Affairs with a minor in Psychology from Southern Methodist University in 2002. Deciding on a different career path, she attended Texas Massage Institute in 2003. She is a Registered Massage Therapist in the state of Texas and has training in Swedish massage, TMJ disorders, Shoulder Pain, Infant and Newborn massage, Sports Massage, Pregnancy massage, Myofascial Release I, Myofascial Unwinding, Myofascial Release: Fascial-Pelvis, and Myofascial Release II. She is also a certified personal trainer, having studied with the Cooper Institute and National Association of Sports Medicine. Christie looks forward to adding more Myofascial Release courses in the near future. "I hope to be a positive addition to the Healing-In- Motion staff and look forward to working with everyone!"

We have had some great therapists come and go since we opened in 2005. Here is a quick update on some familiar names:

Jen Naughton, MT.

Jen is attending a University in Florida for her Physical Therapy degree. The last we heard from her, she was doing well on grades and having a great time!

Lauri Procassini, MT.

Lauri is attending school to become a Physical Therapy Assistant. Lauri is still here and available for treatments around her school schedule.

Elizabeth Busch, PT.

Liz is doing well in Florida with no snow and a busy PT practice all of her own. We have tried to convince her to come back to Michigan, but she is resisting our attempts.