The correct computer posture is critical if you want to live a long, healthy and pain-free life. Bad computer posture can result in chronic pain in your neck, back, arms, legs and even your feet.

Most of us spend endless hours at our computers, day in and day out, either at work or at home on the Internet. To make matters worse, many of us use laptops. How often have you seen someone in Starbucks or at the airport hunched over their laptop? Obviously, this is far from the correct computer posture.

Bad computer posture invariably leads to forward head posture, one of the most common abnormal postures in our society. Ninety percent of the population has some degree of forward head posture. If not corrected, forward head posture can cause a host of issues including mid-back and low-back complications as well as head, neck and TMJ problems. It has been estimated to shave as many as ten years off your life.

Computer posture correction entails the proper equipment placement, the correct viewing angle and the proper typing height of your computer. This, combined with the correct keyboard posture, can significantly reduce muscular-skeletal strain in the muscles and joints of your shoulders, neck, back and arm.

Here are a few tips to help improve your computer posture:

1. Ensure that you desk and computer screen are at the correct height. You should be looking straight ahead at your screen and not down.

2. Keep your back straight. Sit in an upright, straight position at all times. Your lower back should be supported by your chair.

3. Do not slouch. This is implied by sitting up straight. Remember that slouching leads to bad posture.

4. Stretch often. Stretching will help relieve the stress in your muscles and joints and will increase your flexibility and range of motion.

5. Use an ergonomically designed, comfortable chair that promotes good posture. The chair needs to have proper back lumbar support and you need to make use of it.

6. Take a break every thirty minutes. Your spine is made for motion not sitting in a chair for prolonged periods of time. Get up and take a walk. Stretch and recharge your stiff muscles.

7. Use a posture cushion at home that is designed to reverse bad and forward head posture. Posture cushions are a passive and comfortable way to help stretch over-used muscles and strengthen the neglected muscles.

If you are feeling any kind of discomfort while working at your computer, you should definitely evaluate your computer posture. Sitting at your computer and doing the same thing over and over again creates muscle imbalance. Muscles that are used repetitively over-strengthen, while the unused muscles weaken. Your joints begin to move unevenly, causing stress, and ultimately joint breakdown. This is one of the reasons why you should take a break every thirty minutes or so.

By becoming more aware of the causes of your bad posture and following these simple tips, you will be well on your way to developing the correct computer posture and living a long, healthy and pain-free life.

Bernard Brown is the CEO of Posture Pal, the world's #1 posture support. Posture Pal is endorsed by some of the world's leading posture experts. Visit their web site now http://www.PosturePal.com

http://www.PosturePal.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bernard_Brown

I've heard it over and over again. In fact, I've even said it myself. "I'm too busy to exercise. I just can't find the time." And THAT is what is killing us. We don't take the time to care for our bodies.

I know we work hard. And I know we've all had those days where we came home and cringed at the mere thought of exercise. Who has the time? Who has the energy? The answer is not one that we like, but it is the truth. We would have more energy and would be more productive with our time if we would get up and get moving.

You see, the purpose of exercise is not just to burn fat, gain muscle, or lose weight. Exercise gets our blood pumping, improving our circulation and giving us more energy. It improves our respiratory system, helping us to breathe easier and increasing our stamina. Plus, it's not just physical. Exercise presents great benefits for our mental and emotional health as well.

At this point, it's important to note that not all fitness programs are the same. It is imperative that you find a plan that works well for you and fits into your schedule. Also, keep in mind that working out does not have to be a long and boring process. Find something you enjoy doing and stick with it.

Need some ideas? Try these:

1.) Walking – Whether you're walking the dog or strolling with the family, walking is an excellent exercise and can be done by almost anyone. Adjust your pace according to your comfort level, but don't be afraid to go a little harder. Keep in mind, a brisk walk will do your body more good than a slow one. If possible, walk outside to allow your body to soak up some much-needed vitamin D.

2.) Yoga – Many people are discovering the wonders of yoga. Not only does it stretch and strengthen the body, but is also relaxes the mind and boosts awareness and focus.

3.) Sports – Go out and play with the kids. Basketball, football, tennis, and many other sports have been proven to be a very effective way to stay fit and healthy.

4.) Work programs – Many workplaces are now offering gyms or exercise programs for their employees. If your workplace does, take advantage of it. Plan to use half of your lunch hour for lunch and the other half on some cardio equipment or lifting weights. The benefits will astound you!

5.) Short, intense routines – If you're really pressed for time, try this workout routine. Each morning, do as many push-ups as you can possibly do. Don't count. Just do them until you don't have the strength to do any more. (When first starting out, don't be embarrassed if you can only do two or three. You'll improve.)

After completing your set of push-ups, rest for a couple of minutes. Then, do as many chin-ups or bodyweight rows (you choose) as you can. (You may need to purchase a bar at your local fitness store, but they're fairly inexpensive.)

When you've finished those, you're done and ready to start your day. But, be warned. You need to follow the same routine before going to bed each night. The exercises are quick, but you will be amazed at the difference you'll feel in your body.

Whatever exercise routine you choose, be faithful to get up and be active. Not only will you burn calories and lose weight, but before long, you'll feel like a kid again. Isn't that worth a few minutes each day?

Dana Rongione is a full-time Christian freelance writer and writing coach living in Greenville, SC. She offers a wide variety of writing services, including e-classes and personal coaching.

For more information on finding the right fitness program, visit Fitness Review Pro.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dana_Rongione

Here's how people voted:

• Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans, Eggs, and Nuts: 37%
• Vegetables: 20%
• Grains: 17%
• Fruits: 13%
• Dairy: 13%

Though the protein group was the clear favorite, people also had lots of love for fruits and vegetables.

• I love the red fruits; especially berries."
• "Love dairy also but could live on fruits and veggies."
• "Vegetables are so varied in that you can prepare them in so very many varied ways."

The spread of the swine flu virus is believed to occur in the same way that other influenza's spread. Flu viruses are passed to other people usually from person to person contact by the coughing or sneezing of those infected with the influenza. People may also become sick by touching a surface or object contaminated with the swine flu or other virus on it and then touching their mouth or nose before doing proper hand washing. This is one reason why handwashing is so very important.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that anyone infected with seasonal or swine flu may infect others from one day before getting sick to up to a week after. This can be longer for those considered higher risk. This would include children or those with weakened or impaired immune systems. The swine flu has shown to be very contagious so anyone feeling sick should stay home to avoid spreading it to others,

The CDC recommends this for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.

The CDC advises that the symptoms of swine flu, are similar to other influenza, and include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, fatigue and poor appetite.

One of the most important things we need to remember is frequent hand washing. We should lather our hands well and rub for at least 20 seconds. In addition, a regular liquid soap is preferable, rather than an antibacterial, and liquid soaps are less likely to have contamination instead of bars of soap, which can contain a lot of bacteria.

To learn more about swine flu protection and the latest news visit http://swinefluissues.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joanne_Ott

Carbohydrates, or carbs, have become the "bad guys" of food in recent years. No carb or low carb diets seem to be everywhere. But what is the real story on carbohydrates?

First of all, completely cutting out any whole food group is not a good thing. Human beings need a balanced diet. And, psychologically, being told you can't have something makes it all the more desirable.

The real story is that carbohydrates are not the evil that they have been made out to be. They are an important part of a healthy diet. They contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber and provide the body with fuel it needs for physical activity and proper organ function.

The digestive system breaks down carbohydrates and converts most of them into blood sugar, which is a source of energy for the body. This is essential to the functioning of the brain. Without carbohydrates, the brain speed is much less than on a balanced diet.

The fiber in carbohydrates passes through the body undigested. There are two types: soluble and insoluble. Both are very important.

Soluble fiber binds to fatty substances in the intestines and carries them out, lowering bad cholesterol. It also helps to keep hunger and blood sugar under control. Insoluble fiber helps to push food through the intestinal tract, which helps promote regularity. Fiber is also filling, which helps prevent overeating.

So, the real story on carbohydrates is that they are a very important part of a healthy diet. But, like any food group, there are good and bad carbohydrates. The best carbohydrates are whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans. Bad carbohydrates are found in highly processed foods, such as white bread, pastries, and sugared sodas.

The key to getting good carbohydrates is: the less processing, the better. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables whenever possible. If you purchase them prepackaged, check the ingredients carefully for added sugars, fat, or salt. Good sources of whole grain are whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole grain pasta, and whole grain cereals.

Now that you know the real story about carbohydrates, the next step is to find out more about the sources of good carbohydrates and how to make them a part of your healthy diet. There is a diet plan that will not only help you with carbohydrates, but show you how to develop a whole new healthy life style. You will lose weight for good and look and feel great. To find out all about this plan, go to http://finallyadietthatworks.com/arecarbsgood.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anita_Cohen

Men and women liked dogs at the same rate, but men were far more likely to prefer going pet-free.

Here are some comments from readers:

• Cat people are independent, like their animals. Dog people tend to be whiners… LOL
• Cats are much neater than dogs.
• Dog people seem to need the devotion shown to them by their dogs.  Cat people just like the company cats provide.
• I am an artist, and an "introvert" by definition-which seems to fit the notion of the typical cat lover…dogs are cool, but I don't want to escort anyone to the bathroom 4 times a day!
• Cat people are usually less open and kind of strange types.
• Dog people have more heart.
• I believe cat owners prefer less affection than dog owners.
• I do not feel I can trust people whom own cats, this has been proven to me many times……
• I hate cleaning the liter box!!!
• I really do like cats too. It's just that I think dogs are less smelly and really more friendly and fun to have around vs. cats who can be moody.
• I have always had raise dog and cat together LOVE EM better than people.
• I also like geese as pets.
• I have a Cat named Irish I Love Dearly!  They say Cat's are loner's and not loveable, they really tried to talk me out of getting Irish!  Irish looked to them to be mean, to me she looked lonely , sad and giving up on getting adopted. When I took her to the Vet for a Check-up after adopting, to my surprise she is a Purebred.  They are known for having their eye lash's grow inward towards their eye's, so that is why she looked like a fighter.  After he told me and I asked " How can you help her?" he was surprised, I said can you imagine going through life w/your eyelash's in your eye's, it must  have been so irritating. Well we did the Surgery, I thought we were doing one at a time, but the vet said she is such a great and friendly cat he did both eye's, he said it is so nice to see someone adopt an older cat, and he only charged me for one eye, that was so nice of him.
  When I went in looking, something happened when our eye's met, I was still   recovering from having a Complete Hystro. at the age of 35 due to Cervical Cancer, and I was looking for a Buddy!!  Boy did I get one. We really have bonded, when I had to have emergency surgery and I was in the Hospital for 8-day's my husband said she was so sad & lost.  She usually sit's with me and he said she would not sit in my chair.  When I came home she followed me everywhere talking. Not being able to have Children, I was given her & she me!! 
  Long story, but please tell people how " GREAT RESCUE PET'S ARE!" and you never now what you get !!  I lucked out and got a great buddy!!

Are you one of those people who go through great lengths just for the sake of good health and beauty? Are you tired of spending too much time and effort, when there is very little or no changes at all? If you answered yes to these questions, keep in mind that there are so many ways to look young and fabulous without resorting to expensive surgeries and risky medications. What's the secret you ask? Well, the key here is to go natural. Food, specifically fruits and vegetables, is a great way to change your appearance and keep a fit body.

Believe it or not, our parents were right when they were forcing these foods down our throats when we were kids. These actually have special nutrients which help the body recover from the damaging factors which affect our health and our appearances. If our body is having a hard time recuperating from these, we should help it by supplying it with nutritious foods. On the other hand, if you're concerned about your weight then fibrous foods are the best for you. These will help you shed off a few pounds since it regulates the metabolism inside of you.

At the same time, this may sound cliché but drinking multivitamins is a very effective way to build up our immune system. These may also work as antioxidants which can rid our bodies of harmful substances. Speaking of cleansing the body, water is one of the best instruments to keeping the body healthy. At the same time, if you're maintaining a certain weight, water therapy is good for regulating your appetite. All in all, eating right may seem to be an obsolete way to keeping healthy. However, paired with a strong sense of discipline, it's still the most effective.

Erika Ayala has always been passionate about writing. Her latest interest includes beauty and facial products. So come check out her latest website that talks about the latest craze on murad gel also visit her other site exchanger heat plate to find out how to save thousands on electricity bills.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erika_Ayala

]]> http://healthandwellnessreview.com/350/as-beautiful-as-what-you-eat/feed/ 0 http://healthandwellnessreview.com/344/stay-lean-to-stay-smart/ http://healthandwellnessreview.com/344/stay-lean-to-stay-smart/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:54:07 +0000 admin http://healthandwellnessreview.com/?p=344 Stay Lean to Stay Smart
By Brian Hanrahan

A recent study conducted at UCLA found that obese people had on average 8% less brain mass than those of normal weight. In addition, the brains of those obese showed signs of degeneration seen in people 16 years older.

The researchers conducting the study said that obese individuals could experience attention, memory and movement deficiencies due to excess weight. They are also at greater risk of developing cognitive problems such as Alzheimer's disease.

The study researchers pointed to information provided by the World Health Organization. The WHO estimates that there are currently one billion people in the World who are overweight. This problem, as they state, is due to poor diet, particularly a heavy reliance on processed foods.

Jack Lalanne says…"if man makes it, don't eat it." It's advice worth heeding. We have a huge dependence on processed foods that come ready to eat. Everything that comes in a box or bag, ready to consume, will probably do more harm than good. Why are these things so prevalent? They are everywhere because these things are quick and easy; they taste good, and we take the path of least resistance in our fast paced world.

Could avoiding processed foods be smart? It's not only smart. It could keep us that way. As research shows, exercise and good nutrition aren't just good for the body. They are also good for the mind as well. If we're smart, and want to stay that way, we'll throw out the bag of potato chips and get to the gym.

Click here to receive a complimentary membership to the Fitness Lifestyle Coaching weight loss program: http://fitnesslifestylecoaching.com/index.html. Enter promotional code: 9182 in the credit card payment field.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brian_Hanrahan

]]> http://healthandwellnessreview.com/344/stay-lean-to-stay-smart/feed/ 0 http://healthandwellnessreview.com/341/fruits-and-vegetables/ http://healthandwellnessreview.com/341/fruits-and-vegetables/#comments Thu, 10 Sep 2009 05:37:08 +0000 admin http://healthandwellnessreview.com/?p=341 When we asked people how many servings of fruits and vegetables they eat daily, the average answer was 2-3.

"They are great! I love love love my fruits and vegetables. I make sure I eat them on purpose," said one respondent.

“I hardly eat fruits,” another answered honestly. “I’m trying to eat more veggies, but I have them about once every two or three days.”

"I don't care much for fruit," said someone else. "I enjoy eating vegetables more but they're pretty pricey and don't last long."

]]> http://healthandwellnessreview.com/341/fruits-and-vegetables/feed/ 0 http://healthandwellnessreview.com/339/long-term-fitness-goals/ http://healthandwellnessreview.com/339/long-term-fitness-goals/#comments Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:10:24 +0000 admin http://healthandwellnessreview.com/?p=339 By Robert Farabaugh

Goal setting is the same no matter what the goal. Be it to make an extra $1,000.00 a month or to lose 15 pounds you go about the goal setting in the same manner. Goals help us to see where we are and where we want to be. This is important to the dieter because it allows us to figure what we want from our program and how we are going to do it. The best model I have found to aid in setting goals is the SMART method. SMART is an acronym for the 5 steps to setting goals broken down they are as follows:

S= Specific

M= Measurable

A= Attainable

R= Realistic

T= Timely

You need to set specific goals in order to know truly when you have obtained them. Setting a specific goal may seem difficult but it really isn't, it is as easy as what, why, and how. What is simply what you intend to do. By making it measurable you are able to see and measure your progress toward your goal. Attainable refers to the goal creating an unrelenting desire for you to accomplish it. Realistic goals are not necessarily easy but they are achievable through perseverance and work. Timely is so that we know when we wish to gain our goal by. Our time frame must be its self measurable, attainable, and realistic.

When it comes to writing a specific goal you must write in as much detail as possible. Simply writing "I want to lose weight" is not going to cut it here. Something better using our 5 previously mentioned steps would be.

I am going to reduce my percentage of body fat from 35% to 15% by 02/28/2010. Here we set our specific attainable goal (to lose body fat), the quantitative measurement ( from 35%to 15%). It is very realistic in that we have 29 weeks to accomplish it and it is possible to lose one percent of body fat in a week. So we have our time listed in the goal, however this is not enough. We still have not answered WHY? Why do we wish to reach this goal, what is our motivation to reach it. Why should You invest your time and energy into accomplishing this goal.

Why do we want reduce our body fat. It could be practical like reducing body fat to increase health and longevity. Or it can be more selfish and biased like wanting to be seen as sexy in a skimpy bathing suit, thus lifting our self esteem. Or it can any other if the Infinite number of possibilities that can come to you. Or you can combine multiple reasons if they speak to motivate you. So our goal can be rewritten to say " I am going to reduce my percentage of body fat from 35% to 15% by 02/28/2010 so that I can have a healthier life and look good in the string bikini I have when I go on Vacation in the Bahamas in March". There you have it we have our goal with all off our criteria met that is very motivating.

Robert Farabaugh is a strength sports enthusiast and small business owner in the Philadelphia area. With 13 years experience training for strength sports. You can get more fitness information here

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Farabaugh

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