Film lovers and celebrities are flocking to Park City this week for the Sundance Film Festival.  Visitors are often traveling from sea level and are constantly on the go, so I put together these health tips for my Sundance festival visiting friends.

 

• Muscle Tension: During the film festival, you are seated for hours looking up at the screen.  This often results in sore neck and back muscles. To reduce your chances for muscle tension:

  • Be aware of your posture – Try to keep your spine straight while you’re seated

  • Stretch and Move – Between films and during breaks, walk around and stretch

  • Get a massage – Enjoy a massage during your stay in Park City to relax your muscles and your mind

• Eat nutrient rich, well-balanced meals to help support your body.  If you need help with a diet plan, call and schedule a quick visit with me at my practice at Kimball Junction in Park City and I’ll put together a customized diet and wellness plan for you.

• High Altitude Health: At high altitude the air is thinner and has less oxygen, and because of this some people experience headaches, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, nausea and/or decreased appetite.  Often these symptoms will disappear within a day or two of your trip.  To ease your transition to higher altitude and dryer climate:

  • Drink extra water

  • Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake

  • Take it easy for the first 2 days while your body adjusts

  • Try a yoga class. Research suggests yoga can improve oxygen use and ventilation.

 

Generally, symptoms are mild but if your symptoms continue for more than a few days or become more severe (see warning signs below), seek medical attention.

 

Warning Signs: extreme fatigue, breathlessness at rest, wet cough, chest pain or tightness, blue or gray lips or fingernails, dizziness, changes in vision, or irregular heart beats.

 

Enjoy the Sundance Film Festival and stay healthy!