Happy New Year everyone!

I'm trusting that you're excited about all God has in store for your life and especially for your health! 3 Jn. 2 says, "Beloved, I wish above everything else that you will be in good health, even as your soul is getting along well.!" God wants you to enjoy and purposefully live out this beautiful life He's given you. So, please take time to take care of this fearfully and wonderfully made body you've been given - and together lets get 'Fit for the King'! 

Here In 2012 I'm thrilled to feature some guests that will help you along your healthy living journey. This month I have the honor of introducing to you my very own brother, Dr. Mark Shannan.  He's been my chiropractor and health advisor for many years. (besides being a close friend and confidant) I have personally watched him live what he teaches, and have seen him help countless people lead healthier lives.  I know you will be inspired by his advice. 

Cheers, 

Dr. Laura

From the desk of Dr. Mark Shannan

Welcome to 2012! It’s a brand new year and a brand new chance to start fresh and take a positive turn towards health.  God’s plan for us from the beginning was to be healthy, strong, rested, and full of energy, patience, love and joy. While some of the health challenges in our lives are due to a genetic flaw or unintentional injury, most of what plagues us is self-inflicted.  What I’ve found, over the last fifteen years of working with patients, is that we sabotage our health by poor choices and habits that WE are in control of.  Much of what we do, as it pertains to health, we learned from our parents and feel powerless to change. Sometimes, we don’t even realize that what we are doing on a daily basis (or not doing) is part of the problem. Let me make this really clear.  YOU CAN CHANGE! I’ve seen patients lose 100 lbs., beat diabetes, get off of blood pressure and cholesterol medication, get out of a wheelchair, and even go from couch potato to fitness contest winner! You can do it too.  And guess what?  You have God Almighty cheering you on... He never gives up on you, is always behind you, and He will give you the strength to accomplish your goals.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” -Philippians 4:13

“I work hard & struggle to do this, using the energy that He powerfully provides in me.” -Colossians 1:29

The good news is that once you exchange some bad habits for new, healthier ones, it will be much easier to continue.  You’ll be able to stay on this new healthy course with God's help, as well as the encouragement you'll receive from seeing positive changes.  When you start feeling better, losing weight, having more energy, etc., you won’t want to turn back.  It’s also a really good idea to have someone supporting you on your journey: a friend, a trainer, nutritionist, chiropractor, or other health professional that you trust to give you good advice and support. Accountability is key to your success.  If you are in relationships that make it very hard to stay healthy, nutritionally, physically, or mentally, then you need to cut them off.  If it is a marriage relationship that is creating challenges, please seek help and counseling from a pastor or other licensed counselor.  And to encourage & strengthen you on your 'Healthy Living Quest', please avail yourself to the thousands of books, cd’s, dvd’s and websites that can assist you in your goals.  Pastor Laura’s book, Fit for the King, is newly revised and a great place to start! Don Colbert, MD has a great book called, the Seven Pillars of Health, and The Maker’s Diet by Jordan Rubin, ND is also a great choice.  Don’t wait.  Make changes now and watch lasting results take place in your health and well being!

In Health and in Him,

Dr. Mark Shannan

 www.shannan.chiropractic.com