It’s that time of year again – the daylight hours are shorter and the sun often seems reluctant
to come out and cheer us all up!
Thankfully help is here, in the form of vitamin D. Because of the reduced amount of sunlight
during the winter months, some people find that they need a little extra help to get them
through the gloomy days.
Studies have shown that vitamin D3, for example, can boost the immune system and help to
reduce the impact of respiratory infections. (We have adult and kids doses of vitamin D
supplements to buy in the clinic.) And there are other effects of reduced sunlight at this time
of year. You’ve probably heard this called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.
Certain skin conditions like eczema often play up as we spend more time indoors in our cold
weather clothes. In our clinic you’ll see all the chiropractors, physios and sports therapists
using our powerful red light therapy box. It’s a technique that can boost your mood and is
great for your skin, as well as helping with winter aches and pains. Other benefits can
include detoxification, improved circulation, weight loss and the lowering of blood pressure.
Another little winter tip if, like me, you’ve recently had the ‘world’s worst cold’…try a natural
remedy. My favourite is hot water with fresh lemon juice, thyme and manuka honey stirred
in. I’m not, of course, suggesting that this is in any way a cure for ‘man flu’, although it won’t
do any harm!
On a different note, there’s been a few changes at the clinic. We’ve had to say goodbye to
Luke Almond, a world-class sports therapist who has started an exciting new phase of his
career. Luke has begun a Masters in chiropractic degree conversion course in Bournemouth,
but the good news is that he will be coming back to Mangotsfield to treat his patients every
Saturday while continuing his studies. He obviously couldn’t stay away!
To compensate for Luke’s departure, I’m delighted to welcome Lucy Brazier, who will be
taking over the bulk of his sports therapy duties. We know Lucy well as she has worked at
Bristol Rovers for five years. She specialises in soft tissue therapy, sports psychology and
rehabilitation – and we know we’ve taken on an extremely talented therapist who will be very
popular with our patients.
Due to an increased demand on our services, we have added Mary Maggs to the reception
team. She is helping out with administration and telephone answering to make the customer
experience at Cleve Chiropractic even more enjoyable.
Last but by no means least on the staff news front, we are delighted to congratulate Jack
Withey and his wonderful partner Beth on the birth of their new baby girl. I’m looking forward
to helping guide Jack, who is part of our chiropractic team, through all the joys and pitfalls of
parenthood – I’m sure he’s already enjoying all the lovely moments of becoming a new
father.
Finally, I’d like to say a hearty ‘well done’ to all of our patients who completed the London
Marathon. We’re so pleased to be part of your journey, helping you return to normal life after
Covid and raising huge amounts of money for charity.
Don’t forget that, if you’re recovering from an injury or you want some extra help with your
fitness goals, we’re here for you. Just give us a call and we’ll set you on the road to success.
