You may not believe it, but sitting up straight can actually make you more confident in yourself.

A group of researchers from Ohio State University performed two studies at the same time with 71 students.  The students were separated into two groups, one directed by the business school and the other by the arts school.

They were told the arts study was researching facts that play a part in people’s acting abilities, specifically keeping a certain posture while doing other things, and the business study was looking into facts dealing with job satisfaction and good performance.  The students sat at a computer terminal and were told to either, ‘sit up straight and push out the chest’ or ‘sit slouched forward with the face looking down to the knees’.

While seated in one of these two ways, the students wrote down either three positive or negative personal characteristics related to future performance on the job.  Next, they completed a survey where they rated themselves on how well they would do as an employee.  The resulting rating was closely related to the posture they assumed while writing the positive and negative characteristics.

The students that sat up straight in a confident posture rated themselves according to the positive or negative characteristics they wrote down.  If they wrote positive ones, they rated themselves higher, while with the negative ones, they rated themselves lower.

The researchers discovered that people who were asked to sit up straight when asked if they were qualified for the job were more likely to believe the thoughts they wrote down, whether positive or negative, than those who were slouching while writing about their capacity.

The students who sat in good posture rated themselves higher than the ones who were slouched on their positive thoughts, and rated themselves lower than the slouched ones on their negative thoughts because their confidence was stronger no matter the case.

The researchers never mentioned the words ‘confidence’ or ‘doubt’ when giving the instructions, nor any other word that could lead them to a certain feeling based on their posture.  What this suggests is that people’s thoughts are influenced by their posture, even if they don’t realize it.  This also proves that posture affects not only what others think of us but also what we think about ourselves.

Posture is something you can change about yourself.  There are exercise routines like Yoga and Pilates that center on posture and alignment, as well as top of the line back support systems to help your body get used to the right posture easily.

There is no question about it!  Good posture has psychological benefits if you are a positive individual, and it is worth paying attention to.

If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention www.trucomfort.com as the original source).

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As incredible as it may seem, the computer at home is guilty for many of the injuries you or your loved ones may suffer there.  One would think poisoning by chemicals, falls, cuts, eye injuries, and even fatalities, are more common, however, even though these things happen, the most common cause of injury is related to using the computer too much.  If this is not a big enough surprise, the cost and damaging nature of this type of injuries may astound you.  They can literally ruin a person’s life and finances.

Injuries by computer use range from cumulative trauma disorders, to repetitive motion injuries, to musculoskeletal disorders.  They develop slowly inside the person no matter the age, race, gender, or condition.  What truly matters is what people do at home.

With this said, it is clear how good ergonomics is crucial in every home.  Its practice will vary depending on the person, if it is a child or an adult, a young person or a grandpa; nevertheless, there are several tips that will work for everyone, no matter the case:

1.    Posture
Good ergonomics is all about posture.  No matter the activity, you should always think about the proper way to sit, stand, or walk, and always remember to make adjustments to avoid weird and damaging postures like slouching, reaching, bending, or twisting.

2.    Proper seat support is fundamental
Always ensure your back is well supported when working at the computer.  Get a good ergonomic chair and train yourself to be aware of your posture while sitting.

3.    Think of laptops as the big ergonomic enemy
In order to avoid unhealthy postures, the keyboard and the monitor must be separated.  Try to have a desktop computer at home besides the laptop you go to work with.

4.    Be the boss
You should have the last word at home as to how long your kids can play videogames and watch TV.  Teach them to take breaks every half hour, force them if necessary, and do the same for yourself.

5.    Learn to adjust your equipment
This is even more important if several people use the same workstation and computer.  In this case, it is better if you purchase footrests, an adjustable chair, and keyboard trays, so that everything is a fit for everyone.

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For many people, the thought of enduring a long haul flight to a faraway destination is sure to conjure up instant feelings of dread – no matter how exotic or exciting the destination may be! No one likes to be confined into an often crammed metal box for hours on end, breathing in recycled air that is so dry you might as well be in the Sahara desert. Not to mention the increased risks of picking up germs and infections while inside the cabin. When flying, you’ll want to do everything you can to look after your health so you can arrive at your destination in the same top condition which you entered the plane.

Here are five essential ways to protect your health while flying:

1. Be active
The body was not designed to be inactive over very long periods of time. Sometimes prolonged inactivity and impaired circulation can lead to blood stagnating in the veins – commonly in those in the legs – and the risk of developing blood clots. These clots can then prove fatal if they travel to the lungs or other vital areas. The name for this condition is called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and passengers flying on long haul flights are at risk of developing DVT because they may be sitting on their plane seat for very long amounts of time without the need to move.

Some people are more at risk of developing DVT than others – e.g., women who are pregnant, people aged over 40 or those with a family history of thrombosis. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your risks.

Today, most doctors advise passengers to undertake simple exercises while flying to keep their leg muscles moving which prevents blood from stagnating in the veins. Suggestions such as tapping your feet every so often, getting up and walking around the cabin at regular intervals, and stretching and flexing the leg muscles while sitting are recommended. Keeping your legs elevated while sitting, taking aspirin to thin the blood, or wearing compression stockings are also ways to help avoid DVT.

Being active and taking walks around the plane while flying will also help you avoid stiffness and aches associated with sitting for long amounts of time.

2. Keep hydrated
Humidity levels in a plane cabin can be very low. This drying effect makes it easy for the body to become very quickly dehydrated. Drink plenty of glasses of water or juice to help counteract this effect. Remember, being dehydrated won’t just make you feel uncomfortable, it will affect how your body functions, including how resilient your immune system is. Avoid drinks which have a diuretic effect like tea, coffee and alcohol. To keep your skin hydrated, pop a moisturizer and lip balm into your flight bag.

3. Boost your immune system
Before you set foot on the plane, do what you can to boost your immune system so it’s in the best condition to protect your health while flying. Stress can weaken how the immune system functions so do what you can to avoid it. Try and make the packing and airport process as smooth as possible by being organized. Make sure you get plenty of rest before the flight, too. Consider taking immunity-boosting supplements like Vitamin C and Echinacea and limit your intake of junk food before and during the flight – sugary and fatty foods may work to slow down and hamper your immune system.

4. Avoid germs
You can be sure there are plenty of germs you’ll want to avoid on your plane ride. Travelers from all over the world may carry a whole range of viruses and diseases with them. Sitting in close proximity to other people and having to breathe in recycled air is a likely environment for germs to spread easily. You can take steps to minimize your exposure to germs. When leaving the bathroom, wash your hands properly, using warm water and soap and scrubbing well. Perhaps use a paper towel to open the door since not everyone using it will always wash their hands. Carry hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes with you. Use them to clean items like the tray table or armrest that have been touched by many people before you. And keep your hands away from your mouth, nose and eyes to prevent germs from entering your system in the event you picked some up while touching something.

5. Take care of your back
Seats on the plane aren’t always the most comfortable or supportive to the back. When you are facing prolonged periods of sitting, you’ll put your back at risk of injury, strain or discomfort if you do not sit correctly. Many plane seats encourage bad posture which puts unhealthy strain on the back. Or if you have existing back problems, they may be exacerbated because of the lengthy amounts of sitting required. Invest in a portable back support for your plane seat. Even if you’ve never had back problems before, take care of your spine while flying and you could prevent a range of unwanted back problems from developing in the future.

If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention www.trucomfort.com as the original source).

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What is Reflexology?

Medical Reflexology involves the use of thumb, finger and hand techniques to apply deep pressure onto different areas or reflexes of the foot and sometimes hands. It is believed that different parts of the feet relate to and affect specific parts of the body. Sometimes ‘congestion’ or a build up of toxins can be felt in certain areas of the feet and are thought to contribute to problems found in the corresponding body part. By breaking down the congestion or toxins through the application of pressure, it is believed the body is able to function better because of this reduction in stress – aiding healing and restoring balance – especially in the area of the body the foot’s reflex relates to.

Reflexology was first introduced to the Western world in the early 1900s, with roots stemming from practices used in Ancient Egypt. It is considered a complementary practice that has been shown through many studies to help relieve symptoms of medical problems. However, it should be noted that reflexologists are not physicians and reflexology is not a practice that claims to diagnose or cure medical problems – rather it is an additional therapy that can help to alleviate certain conditions.

How does it work?

Extensive research and trials have shown that different areas of the foot directly relate to different sections of the body. The right foot is said to correspond to the right side of the body, and the left foot to the left side. By clearing congestion in the foot and ridding these areas of toxins, it is believed that blood, lymph and nerve flow is then optimized in the corresponding body part. This in turn helps to minimize pain and muscle tension and helps the body’s natural healing and detoxification processes.

How can it help my back pain?

Reflexology can be used to alleviate symptoms of both chronic and acute back pain. In particular, it is known for reducing stress and increasing emotional well-being which then assists the patient’s perception of pain. This is because the emotional stress that is caused by such pain, especially chronic pain, can lead to an increase in the pain level that is experienced. Conditions such as sciatica and arthritis are commonly treated by reflexologists and complaints such as osteoporosis and herniated discs can also be alleviated depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. Overall, reflexology has been shown to boost circulation and the immune system which then contributes to the healing and recovery process of certain injuries in the back.

What will my treatment involve?

A reflexologist will first discuss your general health and ask if you have any medical problems relating to the feet that they should be aware of. They will ask you to remove your footwear and then use different pressure and stretching techniques on certain areas of the feet. Generally, this experience should not feel like a massage as deep pressure is applied. A good reflexologist will work with you to manage the pain or discomfort levels felt during the process – and any pain felt will only last while pressure is being applied. Studies have shown that shorter, more frequent treatments of reflexology have the best results – some therapists suggest two or three sessions a week over a period of a month, then less regular sessions to maintain improvements. They can be undertaken while employing other methods such as the use of posture and back support, medication or back exercises to help aid recovery of back problems, as well.

What else should I know?

It is always recommended that patients with back problems consult their physician before undertaking any reflexology treatments. Those who suffer from gout, osteoarthritis in the feet and ankles and heart disease, or have areas of broken, burnt or damaged skin on their feet, are also advised to be cautious when requesting reflexology treatment.

Finally, always make sure you choose a practitioner who is certified, experienced and reliable.

If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention www.trucomfort.com as the original source).

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People who spend many hours a day sitting down because of their jobs are in danger of suffering serious health, bone and posture problems due to inactivity.  In fact, sitting in front of a computer can be considered the modern occupational hazard.

Even if you have good posture habits and use an ergonomic seat with appropriate back support, your body will demand a break once in a while to get rid of the tension and stress in the muscles and the joints caused by inactivity.  Fortunately, there are some yoga postures that can be easily adapted and performed while sitting down at your desk. These don’t demand more than five minutes, letting you enjoy the benefits of hatha yoga without leaving the office, at the same time revitalizing your whole organism:

1.    Awareness of breath
Sit on the front edge of your chair, making sure that your ears, shoulders and hips are aligned and that the chair’s height allows your knees to be in line with the hip joints and that your feet rest on the floor exactly under your knees.  If the chair is not adjustable, put books under your feet.  Next, close your eyes and concentrate on breathing smoothly and evenly from your diaphragm; upper abdomen and lower ribs expand when you inhale and contract when you exhale.  After one minute, start the routine explained below, always beginning in this sitting position.

2.    Shoulder roll
Make sure you are sitting as explained above and next, inhale and draw the shoulders up toward your ears and back, exhale and move them down and forward.  Repeat three times and then reverse the direction.  You will increase the mobility in your shoulder joints and open your chest.

3.    Sitting twist
From the sitting position, exhale and twist to the right while your hands are resting on the right armrest to provide support, or, in an armless chair, put your right hand on the seat behind your pelvis and the left hand on your right thigh.  Always keep your back straight and your shoulders tucked back.  Every time you inhale, lengthen your spine, and with each exhalation, squeeze the belly and gently twist a little further.  Hold for 30-60 seconds and move to the other side.

4.    Leg crib
Put your outer left ankle on your right thigh.  Rest your right hand on the ankle and the left one on your left knee, exhale and bend forward from the hips.  Make sure your spine is straight when you bend.  Do not bend beyond your comfort zone; it is not necessary and could hurt you. The idea is to stretch soothingly the deep muscles around the left hip.  Hold for 30-60 seconds and change sides.

5.    Wide-legged forward
Separate your knees and feet a bit wider than your hips and put your hands on your thighs.  Exhale and bend forward from the hips with a straight spine.  Remain in this position for a few breaths and next, slide your hands down the legs letting the spine curve.  Breathe into the hips and feel your spine elongating and opening.  To try a deeper stretch, put your hands on the floor between your feet.  Hold for 30-60 seconds and slowly get up with the force of your legs and abdominal muscles.

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Headaches come and go for many reasons, however one that no one thinks about is posture.

Stop for a second and think about your posture while sitting down or standing up.  How do you feel when you lie down?  Do you feel pain in your neck and back?  Maybe there are certain positions that you know will give you an immediate headache; just think about it for a while.

Poor posture creates muscle tension around the shoulders and neck, and can trigger headaches due to other reasons.  When a person is stressed, the first things to be affected are posture and breathing.  The individual loses alignment and breathes superficially and irregularly, thus, it is important for those who have a stressful routine to practice posture and breathing exercises.

If you don’t breathe, you die.  Breathing keeps you alive, and it must be taken seriously.  There is a proper way to breathe.  Not many people breathe deeply and regularly every day, however this is basic to oxygenate the body, relieve tension, and get rid of headaches.  Deep and slow breathing is very powerful; it relaxes the nervous system and translates into amazing physical and emotional benefits related to tension.  Just try to slowly breathe in while you count to three and think of an issue in your life that is giving you headaches, then slowly breathe out while counting to three and imagine your worries melting with your breath.  The mind is a powerful ally when combined with healthy breathing.

Good posture requires attention.  You must be aware of the way you move, sit, stand, and even sleep.  When muscles tense in your neck and back, you may be more sensitive to headaches.  The solution is to be aware of how you hold your posture during daily activities, and to help you keep a good posture, follow this advice:

-    Do not sit or stand in the same position for a long time.

-    Sit up straight and use proper back supports for the lower back.

-    Use a headset if you have to be on the phone for a long time so that you don’t have to hold the phone between shoulder and head for too long.

-    Adjust the computer screen to avoid neck strain.

-    When lifting something heavy, use the strength of arms and legs, not the back.

By combining good posture habits with deep breathing routines you can alleviate headaches and even get rid of them for good.  If you practice deep breathing regularly, eventually your body will learn to do it automatically and your life will be adjusted to this deeper level of peace.  You can practice good posture and deep breathing anywhere, thus, you can get instant relief wherever you are.

At first, you can even get the help of a physical therapist or professional chiropractor to help you align your posture correctly, but you alone are responsible for making your life better and for enjoying a headache and pain free existence.

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You may not believe it, but sitting up straight can actually make you more confident in yourself.

A group of researchers from Ohio State University performed two studies at the same time with 71 students.  The students were separated into two groups, one directed by the business school and the other by the arts school.

They were told the arts study was researching facts that play a part in people’s acting abilities, specifically keeping a certain posture while doing other things, and the business study was looking into facts dealing with job satisfaction and good performance.  The students sat at a computer terminal and were told to either, ‘sit up straight and push out the chest’ or ‘sit slouched forward with the face looking down to the knees’.

While seated in one of these two ways, the students wrote down either three positive or negative personal characteristics related to future performance on the job.  Next, they completed a survey where they rated themselves on how well they would do as an employee.  The resulting rating was closely related to the posture they assumed while writing the positive and negative characteristics.

The students that sat up straight in a confident posture rated themselves according to the positive or negative characteristics they wrote down.  If they wrote positive ones, they rated themselves higher, while with the negative ones, they rated themselves lower.

The researchers discovered that people who were asked to sit up straight when asked if they were qualified for the job were more likely to believe the thoughts they wrote down, whether positive or negative, than those who were slouching while writing about their capacity.

The students who sat in good posture rated themselves higher than the ones who were slouched on their positive thoughts, and rated themselves lower than the slouched ones on their negative thoughts because their confidence was stronger no matter the case.

The researchers never mentioned the words ‘confidence’ or ‘doubt’ when giving the instructions, nor any other word that could lead them to a certain feeling based on their posture.  What this suggests is that people’s thoughts are influenced by their posture, even if they don’t realize it.  This also proves that posture affects not only what others think of us but also what we think about ourselves.

Posture is something you can change about yourself.  There are exercise routines like Yoga and Pilates that center on posture and alignment, as well as top of the line back support systems to help your body get used to the right posture easily.

There is no question about it!  Good posture has psychological benefits if you are a positive individual, and it is worth paying attention to.

If you liked this article, tell all your friends about it. They’ll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don’t forget to mention www.trucomfort.com as the original source).

Don’t Forget to Subscribe by RSS or Email: