Hi everyone from the US of A! The Midwest, Chicago, more specifically...

Craig and I have been over here for the week to spend time with colleagues and learn a little bit more about the chiropractic landscape as it currently stands in the US. Of course, it hasn't been all work - we managed to squeeze in a few rides and take full advantage of some unseasonably wonderful weather.

The whole health insurance industry thing going on here is truly enormous. The insurance industry rightly or wrongly has a significant influence on how and what care is provided to a large portion of the population, including chiropractic care. While many do in fact benefit mightily, it is in stark contrast to the majority of clients taking control of their own health in the UK by paying for their own chiropractic care. Congratulations and thank you for trusting us with the health of your spine!

We were pleasantly surprised that the Trump-supporting Midwest got behind the Global Climate Strike, a movement started by Greta Thunberg. Here's how it shaped up here in Chicago as reported on by a local paper, and here's the London summary via BBC.

Staying on the climate, Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming is a truly amazing book looking at strategies that, if implemented, could still reverse the trend of climate change. Put this one down as essential reading.

Now, back to the weird (and wonderful?!) USA... There's a growing trend for men over 50 to take regular shots of testosterone. Results and benefits vary greatly but it's certainly very much on the radar and may well be heading our way to the UK. Here's what a Harvard expert has to say.

The NY Times reports after years of legal fighting, health warnings on cigarette packets are about to be re-released over here - wise. What is perhaps slightly less wise is that they're available to purchase in pharmacies - yep, really. In contrast, plans to ban sales of e-cigarettes are already well underway...

A trip to the US isn't complete without taking in some sport, so we decided to investigate the fan culture of both (ice) hockey and baseball. It's safe to say that both genres eat way too many calories and have wonderfully robust vocal cords, but they all have a great time, as did we!

Despite the country's flaws, we were consistently humbled by the friendliness and generosity of our hosts and are already looking forward to coming back. Thank you, America.

Stay special,

Luke and Craig