Stay Motivated!

Don’t let the Winter blues get you down. Yes, it’s cold out and the daylight hours are shorter and it seems as though every second person you talk to is jetting off to a tropical location…..but that’s no reason to hibernate!! There's always a silver lining and it begins with YOU.

6 Winter Wellness tips

1. Run, don't walk

The winter months can be the hardest time of year to stay motivated, but once you commit to regular exercise as part of your daily routine – you’ll be amazed at how good you’ll begin to feel.

Make the time for yourself – whether it’s at the beginning, or end of day - or just by getting out of the office at lunch for a powerwalk around the block. Have your exercise clothes ready, so you’re less likely to make excuses.

Do you drive to work? Park your car further away so you’re getting some incidental exercise, every step counts!

 

2. Go home, stay home

Don’t feel like hitting the gym, or the pavement? Stay at home roll out a mat and STRETCH. Need some inspiration? There is an abundance of at-home exercises available for you to follow on the internet; Yoga, Tai chi, line dancing?! There are also many APPS that you can download to help keep you motivated with routines and advice.

Grab a skipping rope, or just pop on your favourite music and DANCE. Whatever makes you feel good, raises your heart rate and keeps you moving.

3. Stay hydrated!

Let's be honest, that first hot coffee can bring real comfort on a cold morning and so it makes sense that our coffee intake increases during Winter. Just remember that you also need to be drinking plenty of water.

The human brain is composed of about 75% water, so water intake is vital to our body in terms of composition and mental focus.

• Don’t like drinking water? Try adding natural flavours like fresh fruit or herbs.
• Add water-rich foods to your diet - like watermelon, cucumber and strawberries.
• Carry your own reusable bottle with you to save money and the environment.

Aim for at least 2 litres of water throughout the day. Drink it before you’re thirsty, as that is a sign that your body is already dehydrated.

4. Netflix and chill?

How about reading and relax?! Studies have shown that too much screen time can have a negative effect - especially before bed, as the light emitted from screens interferes with the sleep cycle in the brain, which can lead to insomnia. So turn off the T.V, switch your phone to silent and cosy up with a good book.

Break out the cards or boardgames. (Hello MONOPOLY!) Get your family or friends together for a game – it’s a great opportunity to interact, learn, have fun and a laugh. How about Charades? or do you prefer something more creative? Try your hand at drawing or painting – you are only limited by your imagination, so the possibilities are endless.

5. Heard of a Spring clean?

Try having a Winter weed out! We all have clothes and shoes that have been languishing in our closets and drawers - It’s time to let go! 

A tidy house equals a tidy mind. Donate items to charity or make some money by having a garage sale or selling them online.

It's also a good time to have a “stock take” of what's in your cupboards. Check the use by dates on all your food, including spices and herbs. Create a meal plan around what you already have and try and shop seasonally to save money.

Buy bulk, cook and freeze to make it easier to heat up a nutritious meal when you get home after a long day and the last thing you want to do is break out the pots and pans.

6. Have an Attitude of Gratitude

Nothing is more precious than giving your time to someone. The feel good factor goes both ways. It could be as simple as inviting a friend around for a cup of tea, bringing flowers/succulent cuttings from your garden for a neighbour or colleague. Picking up the phone and calling that friend or family member that has been on your mind.

It’s the little things. 

Showing appreciation in all your interactions, a Smile and Thank-you goes a long way. Showing you care doesn’t need to cost a thing and you might just make someone’s day.

We hope you’ve enjoyed reading our latest blog. Remember, your oral health should be a priority! Give us a call or book online Today to schedule your next visit.

Warm regards,

The Dental 4U Team

Back to Basics, Part 1: Tooth brushing!

If you want to do anything in Life well, you need to have the fundamental basics covered. Brushing and flossing are the keys to a healthy smile, so with a bit of knowledge and practice - you'll be able to keep your smile shining bright. 

Read on for some helpful tooth brushing techniques and tips!

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Proper brushing takes at least 2 minutes(many of us struggle to dedicate half that amount of time!). Choose a soft bristled brush, tilt it at a 45 degree angle and using small, circular motions; pay particular attention to the gum line areas, around fillings, crowns and implants e.t.c.  Don't forget the hard to reach back teeth, by closing your mouth slightly when brushing your back teeth - it can help give you greater access.

As well as cleaning the outer surfaces of your teeth, don't forget to brush the inner surfaces, chewing surfaces and also your tongue. If you find yourself "rushing through your brushing" - try playing a song or using a stop watch on your mobile, till you become more mindful of the time it takes to give your teeth a proper clean.

Remember to brush at least twice a day, in front of a mirror if you can to ensure that you're not missing cleaning any of your teeth. Keep an eye on your tooth brush bristles, a worn toothbrush won't do a good job of cleaning your teeth. So replace as needed, which is generally every three or four months. Both manual and electric powered toothbrushes can effectively clean teeth, but if you find it difficult to get a thorough clean with a manual toothbrush, you might find an electric toothbrush easier to use. 

Keep in mind that although good oral hygiene at home is very important, when you do have a buildup of hard "tartar"(also known as calculus), it cannot be removed without a professional clean. Come see us Today for a clean to get you back on track!

We can help with:

• Visible Stains
• Bleeding gums
• Tartar buildup
• Bad Breath       

Stay tuned for our next "Back to Basics" feature for tips and techniques on: Flossing!