Being Prepared for Winter

In Minnesota we have extremely unpredictable weather, especially in the winter. Here are some tips for being prepared for whatever comes your way. Every Minnesotan should have a winter kit in their car. This kit should include; jumper cables, a bag of sand or cat litter to help with traction, a blanket, a first aid kit, a flash light, snacks, water, batteries and chargers, hand and feet warmers and a shovel, brush and scraper. In addition if you plan to venture out during extremely cold or snowy weather no matter the distance, wear a warm winter jacket, winter boots, hat, scarf and gloves. Also double check you have a fully charged cell phone, an up to date insurance card and a drivers license with you. This way if you have car troubles or get into an accident you are prepared. 

If you are in an accident no matter how minor, stay on the scene and call 9-1-1. Move to a safe area if you can. Double check you are okay and if anyone else involved is okay, stay calm. If another car is involved exchange information with them, document the following: name, address and phone numbers of all the drivers and passengers involved, the license plate number, make and model of each vehicle involved, the vehicle operators driver license number, insurance company and policy number. Some other information you might want to get is the names and phone numbers of any witnesses and the names and badge numbers of the police officers who responded. You should also document the damage. Take photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage. Even if no one is hurt you should still file a police report and report the claim to your insurance company. 

If you are injured after an accident and perceive your injuries to be a medical emergency, go to the emergency room. Otherwise, if you are sore or injured make an appointment to see your chiropractor. Sometimes injuries from a car accident aren't immediately present. The bottom line is, if the weather is extremely bad and you have the ability to stay home, stay home. If you do have to drive, be prepared, pack your car accordingly and dress for the weather. Drive safe! Go the speed you are comfortable with and make sure you are leaving enough room in front of you. If you are in an accident stay calm and follow the steps above. To find out more ways to keep you and your family healthy and safe, visit our website at oxborochiro.com. 

By Julia Jacobson, Office Manager

Oxboro Family Chiropractic, P.A.

Reducing Stress On Your Commute

About 8 percent of American workers commute an hour or more each way, to and from work. There can be many challenges and stressors to overcome when you are commuting to work.  Some of these challenges include a lack of control, being in a cramped position, time anxiety, isolation, sense of helplessness, negative inputs and road rage. 

When commuting there is a lack of control with slow or stopped traffic, bad weather or unavoidable obstacles, such as construction. Sitting in cramped position for an extended period of time can also cause additional stress. Commuters often worry about being late or being caught in heavy traffic and this causes anxiety. This anxiety can make you worry about missing important meetings or even losing your job. Long hours on the road can also create stress over missed or limited time with loved ones.  Avoiding negative inputs like angry music or talk radio can help decrease stress and relax any heated emotions.  Refraining from road rage as this can put your mind in an irrational state where any little thing can seem offensive is useful when commuting. 

One way to better combat these challenges is to try and set a positive intention when you leave the house.  Be mindful of any anger and acknowledge that it is okay to observe your thoughts without judging your emotions.  Try doing some deep breathing or shoulder rolls to help ease some tension or listen to calming music. You can even explore other routes that help avoid major traffic or take public transportation if you don’t like driving. When you finally arrive at work take the stairs so you can get your blood flowing again after the long commute.  To find out more ways to keep yourself healthy, please visit our website at www.oxborochiro.com.

Source: https://experiencelife.com/article/the-long-commute/