Horizon PT - February 2025

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physical therapy and rehabilitation

February 2025

3600 Miller Road, Flint, MI 48503 • 810-620-8042 • horizonptflint.com

Embracing a Month of Purification in Work and Life FRESH STARTS IN FEBRUARY

In times past, February was known as a month of purification. Its name comes from the Latin word februum , which means purification. As the last month of the year in the ancient lunar calendar, February was when Romans held a festival of purification called Februa.

dream team, bringing in the staff and other people I need around me to help us grow and be successful. This month, I aim to step back, carefully observe what I have done so far, and evaluate my ideas and goals. In the process, I hope to keep my creative juices flowing as I move into the rest of the year. I’m a mind-body-soul person, so improving my personal fitness is going to be part of my purification journey. In the past, I have done intermittent fasting and learned the power of simplifying my diet. This month, I would like to exercise more consistently.

I like the idea of making February a month of purification. Purification isn’t just about cleaning the body. It’s about removing the barriers that keep us from thriving and growing — mentally, spiritually, and physically.

Here in Michigan, December, January, and February are cold. It’s easy to get stuck in the monotony of doing the same things repeatedly to stay warm and active. Purification requires getting away from a normal routine and doing things you don’t normally do. Going to warmer weather during these months can be a purifying process by itself. In my business, I always look for ways to improve, whether it’s by introducing a new system, building a better patient experience, or strengthening our marketing efforts. Attending professional education or leadership conferences often helps me accomplish these goals.

Also, as a father, I hope to create meaningful moments for my sons by purifying my priorities. I want to give them more of the time they want with me, whether that means snuggling and watching TV, taking them to a game or jump park, or just acknowledging what they are doing. Sometimes, it’s easy to be so busy that you’re not present in the moment. I want to make sure I’m present in the moment for my boys. For readers, here is a purification challenge for February: Take 10 minutes every day to dedicate to mindfulness or journaling. Try new healthy habits by drinking more water or improving your diet. And consider purification of the spirit by engaging in activities that help you feel whole or find meaning in life. This February, let’s

In February last year, I attended a conference in California for CEOs of private healthcare practices, where I met some good people. Spending this time away really spurred my thinking. It’s awesome to step out of daily monotony and meet people with similar goals who are not in competition with you.

take steps to purify our lives in every way possible!

-Dr. Jerome Adams

Working inside the thing you are trying to build makes it easy to lose perspective. As I wrote in last month’s newsletter, I have been building my

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From the pandemic to political woes, 2020 was challenging for people worldwide. Australian actress Rebel Wilson — known for her size and skills on screen — decided to use that time to improve her life. Calling 2020 her “Year of Health,” she challenged herself to lose weight in safe and sustainable ways. Thanks to her discipline, she eventually shed 75 pounds and now stands as an example of what can be accomplished through perseverance. How did she do it? Read on. NURTURING WITH NATURE’S MEDICINE In the words of Greek philosopher Hippocrates, “Walking is nature’s best medicine.” Wilson embraced this mindset by getting off the couch and on her feet, making walking the core of her newfound exercise regimen. “Sometimes, the simplest thing, like getting out and walking for an hour a day, is the kindest thing to your body, and your body will respond to that,” she explains in an episode of the Apple Fitness+ series “Time to Walk.” “An Austrian doctor said, ‘Rebel, the best way for you to lose unwanted body fat is just by simply walking. It doesn’t have to be high intensity or uphill … just simply walking an hour a day.’” Rebel Health AN ACTRESS’S GUIDE TO BETTER LIVING

Wilson in 2019. Photo: MTV International

STEPPING UP AT THE OPERA Performing repetitions on stairs is a great way to strengthen your cardiovascular system. Wilson took this fact to the extreme — by the time her exercise routine progressed, she could do 25 laps on the steps of the world- renowned Sydney Opera House! While not everyone has an opera house at their disposal, almost anyone can strengthen their calves, glutes, abs, and quads by climbing a flight or two at home. SOARING WITH PROPER SLEEP Although Wilson’s fitness plan ranged from simple to complex, she’d likely agree that any successful health goal begins with a good night’s sleep. Studies have shown that consistently getting fewer than six hours of shut-eye can lead to an increased risk of obesity and a slower metabolism. If you want to conquer weight loss, your bed is the best place to start!

CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES

“On my first day at Horizon, I was hobbling along with a cane and in a lot of pain due to a triple fracture of my right ankle. The staff were so kind and supportive. I felt welcomed. Every day I was greeted by the staff, followed by a thorough workout. With each workout, they ask about pain and how you’re feeling in general. I was evaluated after a 4 to 5-week period and they determined I should continue. After 9 weeks of therapy, we determined that my ankle had improved, and I no longer needed therapy. I was very pleased with my time

with Horizon. The staff were great and the atmosphere was very calming and conducive to successful healing. I would recommend Horizon as a wonderful place for physical therapy.” –Carol L.

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How a Physical Therapist Can Improve Your Heart Health HEALING HEARTS

Many people who live in fear of a heart attack or stroke don’t think of physical therapy as a route to preventing them. But in reality, seeing a physical therapist is one of the best ways to safeguard your heart health. February is American Heart Month, a great time to embrace proactive steps toward warding off cardiovascular disease. As the leading cause of death worldwide, cardiovascular disease takes a heavier toll than cancer and lung disease combined. More than 80% of deaths from cardiovascular disease are caused by heart attacks and strokes. A more alarming fact is that in one-third of those fatalities, the timing is considered “premature” — that is, before age 70. Many people who worry about heart disease or have a family history of heart attacks or strokes are tempted to take it easy. They worry that exercise will trigger a dangerous cardiovascular event. In fact, a sedentary lifestyle is a major cause of such crises. Increased physical activity can help patients lose weight, lower blood pressure, reduce fat in the blood, and improve circulation.

A physical therapist will work with you to understand the symptoms of heart disease or heart failure and track changes in your symptoms over time. They will go over your medical history and recent test results with you. They also will assess your strength and balance, test your cardiovascular endurance, and evaluate your physical exercise patterns. These professionals are well-equipped to help you safely improve your tolerance for activity. A skilled therapist will design a personal exercise program for you and provide support while you get used to it. Physical therapists also educate patients about nutrition and support them in embracing a healthier diet. If you are concerned about heart disease or have a family history of strokes or heart attacks, consider reaching out to us today to schedule an evaluation. We will be glad to help you increase your exercise gradually and safely and achieve the improvements in heart health that you desire!

Ginger- Glazed Mahi Mahi

Have a Laugh

Inspired by AllRecipes.com

Ingredients

• • • • • • • • •

3 tbsp honey

3 tbsp soy sauce

3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tsp grated fresh ginger root 3 cloves garlic, minced 4 (6-oz) mahi mahi fillets Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp vegetable oil

Directions

1. In a shallow bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, ginger, and garlic. 2. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 25 minutes. 3. Add vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove fish fillets and add to skillet, reserving marinade. Fry fish for 4–5 minutes on each side, turning only once, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove fillets to a serving platter and keep warm. 4. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to a glaze. Spoon glaze over fish and serve over brown rice.

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THIS ISSUE Inside

A Month of Renewal: Purifying Mind, Body, and Soul

Sensible Steps to Shed Pounds

Client Success Stories

How Physical Therapy Aids the Fight Against Heart Disease

Ginger-Glazed Mahi Mahi

Family Activities That Will Make Valentine’s Day Special Your Guide to a Family-Friendly Valentine’s Day

MAKE SOME SWEET TREATS. Valentine’s Day often includes desserts and candies; your event should be no different. Instead of taking the kids to the store to pick out their favorite chocolate bars or Valentine’s treats, consider baking something special. Make heart-shaped pancakes for breakfast, or bake sugar cookies and allow everyone to decorate their treats with sprinkles and frosting. You can even bake a red velvet cake or another Valentine’s favorite if you feel adventurous. GIVE GIFTS TO EACH OTHER.

Valentine’s Day can be a difficult holiday for many parents. While they’d love to go out for a romantic dinner and enjoy a date night with their spouse, they have to think about the kids, too! Finding a babysitter for Valentine’s Day can be incredibly challenging, so shift gears and spend the day as a family instead of a couple. You can find plenty to do to ensure your Valentine’s Day is fun and exciting for every family member. Here are three activities to try that will help make Valentine’s Day memorable. WRITE LOVE LETTERS. Valentine’s Day is a holiday all about love and romance, making it the perfect time for your family to

While Christmas and birthdays are often associated with gift-giving, you can also give your kids and spouse special gifts on Valentine’s Day to brighten their mood and ensure they feel loved. Flowers, stuffed animals, and chocolates are the go-to

share what they love about each other. Give your kids and yourself time to write love letters to each family member, writing down what they love about that person and some of their favorite memories. It’s a great way to spread joy and show everyone how loved they are.

Valentine’s gifts, but you don’t necessarily have to stick to the script. Your family will be thrilled by any gifts they receive!

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