Tips to Keep Your Body Happy & Your Driveway Clear!

Well, we finally got that POLAR VORTEX we were warned about!

Also known in Canada as Winter!

After major snowfalls, R.M.T.s tend to see a lot of shovel-related strains and pains in their clients. Here are a few tips to keep your body happy and your driveway clear!

**PLEASE NOTE: If you have a history of heart disease or heart attack, talk to your healthcare provider to see if shoveling is allowed.**

1. First, you're going to want to warm up. Just like any workout, it's important to limber up before doing any heavy lifting (literally!) Walk around for a few minutes before you begin to pile up those snowbanks. Putting each part of the body - neck, shoulders, back, hips and legs - through their own individual Range of Motion is a great way to get the blood flowing too!

2. Keep the shovel in front of you and close to your body.

3. Your feet should be hips width apart and one in front of the other.

4. It's all about your own body weight! If you use the weight of your own body to lean into the shovel and push the snow, there's less chance of strain or injury - it also makes the job a little easier.

5. It's important not to bend too much to either side, rather, keep your spine relatively straight but flexible.

6. Now it's time to lift! DO NOT lift with your back. Bending and lifting from the hips and knees will save you a ton of work and possible pain. The more you bend at the knees the more your center will be under the load.

7. Next, shift your weight onto your front leg and move your whole body into the direction you want the snow to go. NO twisting! Especially when lifting and bending are involved.

8. Finally, take your time. Shoveling all that snow can actually turn out to be a great workout. You may even (pause for dramatic effect) enjoy yourself!

9. Go warm up inside with a hot beverage while you book your next Massage at Mind How You Go Massage + Wellness. You deserve it!