Showing posts with label health care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health care. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Breakfast for better health

Skipping breakfast is very common nowadays. This is because of the fast faced lifestyle and having a wrong idea that breakfast is not as important as the other meal of the day.

There are studies that show young and adults specifically the teens that skipped breakfast are more likely to be obese. They are the ones who tend to eat less healthy during the day and exercised less.

Breakfast is as important as the other meals of the day. As the day starts you need something to fill your empty stomach while you were asleep and something to charge your energy. But there is more to it than not skipping breakfast. Breakfast should be healthy. So if you’re planning breakfast you should avoid the following:

  • Doughnuts
  • Cereals
  • Fruit juice
  • Waffles and pancakes
  • Bagels and toast (even whole grain organic types)
  • ALL cereals (even whole grain organic types)
It is ideal to have healthy food during breakfast or in any meal. And according to experts it is better that you should avoid whole grain breads and cereals because it rapidly breakdown sugar and stimulating insulin production. He also said that eggs, juiced fruits and vegetables are ideal for breakfast.

You must take note that in preparing meals like breakfast for you and your family you must always consider the nutritional type. And by doing this you will enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Things You Can Do to Have Naturally Healthy and Younger Looking Skin

Skin is the most visible part of our body, having a surface area of about 15 – 20 square feet. It protects us from getting dried out and exposure from harmful toxins from the environment. And that is the reason why we need to take good care of it.

As we grow old our skin also ages usually called as internal aging process. More likely your skin will experience the following changes:
  • Collagen production slowing (collagen contributes to skin's firmness)

  • Elastin production decreasing (elastin contributes to skin's elasticity)

  • Fat cells beginning to disappear (which can lead to sagging skin)

  • Your skin losing its ability to retain moisture

  • Frown lines and "crow's feet" appearing due to small muscle contractions

  • Dead skin cells not being shed as quickly

  • Slightly less turnover of new skin cells

This changes usually results to wrinkles, dryness, sagging and discolorations such as “age spots” in which we are not trilled of having. But is there something we can do other that looking for the fountain of youth?

According to experts, diet and lifestyle can help you control the skin aging, here are some the techniques to keep your skin young and healthy:
  1. Drink more water. Nothing keeps your skin hydrated and supple better than a glass of pure H2O.

  2. Limit sun exposure and protect your skin with sun block when in the sun.

  3. Indulge in fruits and veggies. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables will provide you with plenty of antioxidants that will help to protect your skin and overall health.

  4. Avoid cigarette smoke. Cigarette smoke exposes you to damaging free radicals that will accelerate the aging process by damaging the microcapillaries in the skin.

  5. Lay off the harsh soaps and cleansers. Most commercial soaps contain chemicals like tricolosan and sodium lauryl sulfate, which dry and irritate your skin.

  6. Use a good moisturizer to hydrate and plump up your skin cells.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Osteoporosis: A Silent Disease

Are you having severe back pain? Do you look smaller due to stooped posture? You might have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a silent disease in the bone. It makes the bone weaker and more likely to break that even a mild stress like coughing can cause fracture.

According to reports that in 10 people affected with osteoporosis, 8 of them are women and 2 of them are men. And it is considered as a “SILENT DISEASE”. In the early stages of bone loss, you will not feel pain or notice in any symptoms but once it became weak by osteoporosis you may notice the following symptoms:
  • Back pain
  • Loss of height over time
  • Fracture of the vertebrae
Other than age there are other risk factors of osteoporosis. According to NOF (National Osteoporosis Foundation), here are the factors that increase your risk of osteoporosis:
  • Personal history of fracture after age 50
  • Current low bone mass
  • Being female
  • Being thin and/or having a small frame
  • Advanced age
  • A family history of osteoporosis
  • Estrogen deficiency as a result of menopause, especially early or surgically induced
  • Abnormal absence of menstrual periods (amenorrhea)
  • Anorexia nervosa
  • Low lifetime calcium intake
  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • Use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants
  • Presence of certain chronic medical conditions
  • Low testosterone levels in men
  • An inactive lifestyle
  • Current cigarette smoking
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Being Caucasian or Asian, although African Americans and Hispanic Americans are at significant risk as well
Is there something we can do to prevent osteoporosis if we have one of these risk factors? The answer is yes. There are a lot of things you can do to strengthen your bones and decrease the risk of osteoporosis. These include:
  1. Eat a healthy diet that is rich with calcium and vitamin D.
  2. Regular exercise.
  3. Healthy lifestyle. No smoking and alcohol drinking.
  4. Visit a physician about bone density testing so that you will be able to monitor you bone density is normal to your age.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

What to do with your dry hair?

Hair is a protein filament that grows through the epidermis from follicles deep within the dermis which is most commonly found in mammals. It is a defining characteristic of the mammalian class. And in humans, generally hair is considered as a crowning glory” especially to women and a significant indicator of health and youth.

We have different hair issues but the most common is dry hair. A dry hair is a brittle and dull hair. It lacks oil and moisture. We may have dry hair every now and then because of different external factor but if the instances of dry hair are excessive, it can be a sign of a greater health issues.

Here are some of the causes of dry hair:

  1. Excessive Washing and Blow-Drying, Harsh Detergents
  2. Washing your hair too often, especially with a harsh shampoo, is a surefire way to strip moisture away. Heat from blow dryers, curling irons and electric curlers will also contribute to dryness.
  3. Environmental Dryness
  4. The climate you live in can also dry out your hair. Areas with lots of sun, dry heat and little humidity, for instance, will definitely make your hair drier than tropical, humid locales.
  5. Malnutrition
  6. A person who is malnourished does not take in the nutrients necessary for the body to maintain healthy hair. As a result, the hair becomes dry, brittle and damaged.

Basically, changing lifestyle can make your hair healthy. Eating healthy food and avoiding harmful chemicals and stress on your hair can make a difference. Here are other home remedies for dry hair:
  • Don’t overdo the shampoo and use gentle shampoo.
  • Excessive washing of hair and use of harsh shampoo can do more harm than good. It washes away natural oils and moisture.
  • Apply conditioner.
  • Little to no-alcohol conditioners can help you repair damage hair
  • Avoid the heat.

  • Frequent use of hot rollers, hot combs and blow dryers invites for dry hair.
  • Make it shine with beer.

  • Using beer after shampooing can help you regain the shine of your hair.
  • Add up additional oil.

  • Rubbing a little oil especially olive or coconut oil into the scalp can help your restore hair shine and softness.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Things you don’t know about your cosmetics and make-ups

Most personal products like shampoo, conditioner, cosmetics and make-ups are used every day. But do you know how it is made and from what ingredient? And do you have any idea how safe it is to use?

Studies have been made and proved that most of the cosmetic companies are adding synthetic ingredients that may cause cancer or reproductive damage over the years of sustained used. According to the survey of EWG (Environmental Working Group), more than a quarter of women in the total population and one of every 100 men are using personal care products a day which mean greater exposure to toxic ingredients.

Here are some of the toxic ingredients found in most personal products that you might to avoid according to Skin Deep:

1. Mercury

This heavy metal is a possible human carcinogen and a human reproductive or developmental toxin. Used in some eye drops, ointments and mascaras (look for it listed as "thimerosal" on labels).

2. Placenta
Placenta produces hormones like progesterone and estrogen, which may interfere with your body's normal hormone functions and could lead to breast cancer and other health problems. Used in some hair relaxers, moisturizers and toners.

3. Petrochemicals

These byproducts of crude oil may be listed as petrolatum, mineral oil or paraffin on labels. They are suspected or known carcinogens and may also break down into toxic products such as dioxane. Used in some hair relaxers, shampoos, anti-aging creams, mascaras, perfumes, foundations, lipsticks and lip balms.

4. Phthalates

Phthalates are used in some nail polishes, fragrances and hair sprays. It is a plasticizing chemical that are probable reproductive or developmental toxins and endocrine disrupters. Two phthalates, dibutyl and diethylhexyl have been banned in the European Union.

5. Hydroquinone

This ingredient is a possible carcinogen, a probable reproductive or developmental toxin and endocrine disrupter and may leave permanent black-blue lesions on your skin. Used in some skin lightening products and moisturizers.

And because of these facts it is advices that before buying products read the labels and check if the ingredients are all-natural and safe. To give you an idea here are some of the safe and gentle ingredients:

• Aloe Vera
• Plant extract
• Essential Oils
• Organic oils

Monday, January 12, 2009

Foods that Can Lower Cholesterol

Generally, cholesterol is lipid or a fat like substance that occur in the body. It is said that a certain level of cholesterol is needed for the body to work. And according to American Heart Association, having cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or higher increases the risk of heart attack and high blood. Too much of it can stick to the walls of the arteries called plaques which can cause narrowing of the arteries or even block them.

High cholesterol is common to people who has a family history of it and to those who practice an unhealthy lifestyle like an eating habit of having fatty foods. It has no symptoms and can only be determined by a series of screening.

You can lower cholesterol level by taking medicine but it is better to do it naturally. According to the American Heart Association, "You can reduce cholesterol in your blood by eating healthful foods, losing weight if you need to and exercising." Here are some foods you can add to your diet to fight cholesterol.
  • Shitake Mushrooms
  • It contains an active component named eritadenine which shows to lower cholesterol.
  • Walnuts
  • It contains omega-3 fatty acids which is beneficial to the heart. And during the studies walnut can be substitute calories supplied by olives and other monounsaturated fats which lowers the cholesterol level.
  • SalmonThis fish is a
  • particularly good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to lower LDL cholesterol while raising the good (HDL) kind.
  • Garlic
  • Numerous studies have demonstrated that eating garlic regularly reduces LDL cholesterol and raises HDL levels.
  • Dark Green, Leafy Vegetables
  • According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute's Family Heart Study, participants who ate four or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day had significantly lower levels of LDL cholesterol than those who ate fewer servings. Among the most powerful veggies are the dark green, leafy variety, such as spinach, kale, collard greens and Swiss chard.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Laughing: Key to a Happy Heart

Do you remember the last time you laugh your hearts out? How does it feel?

Most of us don’t even remember the last time the laugh because of the stressful world we are living in. But have you ever thought that it could give bad effects on your health. Experts say that emotions can affect your health. It is just like when you feel too much stress, anger, sadness, pain and guilt you take toll of your health. However laughter has a different effect.

A person’s ability to laugh gives a feeling of superiority and power. And foster a positive aura and hopeful attitude. And therefore helps you to have a happy heart. There were studies that show connection of healthy heart and laughter or ability to laugh. If the blood vessels vasodilation (ability to expand) is poor, it increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. During the study the 50% of the correspondents watch violent and stressful movies and the other group watches relaxing and humorous movies and checked the vasodilation. They found that:

  • Blood flow was significantly reduced by about 35 percent of the volunteers who saw the stressful film.
  • Blood flow significantly increased by 22 percent of the volunteers after watching the funny movie.
Laughter and humor is similar to exercise. A regular dose or laughing as often as you can make you feel better and help you prevent some health problems. Here are some of the positive effects of laughter and humor to your health:

  • An increase in the number and activity level of natural killer cells that attack viral infected cells and some types of cancer and tumor cells.
  • An increase in activated T cells (T lymphocytes). There are many T cells that await activation. Laughter appears to tell the immune system to "turn it up a notch."
  • An increase in the antibody IgA (immunoglobulin A), which fights upper respiratory tract insults and infections.
  • An increase in gamma interferon, which tells various components of the immune system to "turn on."
  • An increase in IgB, the immunoglobulin produced in the greatest quantity in body, as well as an increase in Complement 3, which helps antibodies to pierce dysfunctional or infected cells. The increase in both substances was not only present while subjects watched a humor video; there also was a lingering effect that continued to show increased levels the next day.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

The Good and Bad of Tanning Beds

Feeling dull because of the cold weather? Craving for that bronze color skin but can’t go to the beach and enjoy the sun? What will you do? Would you consider artificial tanning?
Nowadays, especially in the US artificial tanning turns to be an option during winter and for those who loves to enjoy bronze color. Tanning has become a good earning industry in the US and based on the reports in last 25 years indoor tanner already increased by more than a 100 percent. And the most common artificial tanners are the tanning beds.

Tanning bed or sunbed is a device emitting ultraviolet radiation used to produce cosmetic tan. Tanning either natural or artificial in general, aids in the production of Vitamin D in the skin. Vitamin D is important for a number of human functions, like promotion of healthy bones. Also tanning makes a person feel good. According to research this is because of the increase in the endorphin levels. A controversial benefit of artificial tanning rather than tanning outside also arises, it is the amount of control the tanner has. A person has control to the amount of UV and control on the period of exposure.

Knowing all of these benefits may lead to tanning addiction. It is a rare condition which is due to several psychological conditions. And according to studies, the feeling of relaxation and less tense mood after the UV exposure than without exposure is one of the reason of addiction. Some Americans may be addicted to tanning -- to the point where they feel withdrawal symptoms if they go too long without it.

Over doing things specifically tanning has bad effects too. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to UV light, either from the sun or a tanning bed, is a risk factor for skin cancer. Short-wavelength UVB light has been found to be carcinogenic in animals, and longer wavelength UVA, which penetrates the skin more deeply and is used in tanning beds, may also contribute to cancer. It also said that women who regularly used tanning bed had a greater risk of malignant melanoma, eye problems and suppression of immune system.

Monday, December 8, 2008

How to stop the Birth of a Unwanted Blemish?

Having problems with your skin? Imperfections like acne and pimples. Acne vulgaris or commonly known as acne is skin disease caused by the changes in the skin structures consisting of follicles and other gland, wherein the hair follicles under the skin is clogged. This skin problem is common in teenagers and young adults. It is not a serious skin disease but it can cause scars that may cause decrease in self-confidence.

Acne affects almost everyone and considered as one of the widespread medical conditions in the world. But unfortunately acne has no cure. And because of this fact the best way to manage acne is to know the cause and do preventive measures. It should be kept in mind especially by the teenagers that acne is not your fault and it is caused by a combination of factors at work beneath the surface of the face, factors like production of excess oil in the skin, skin cells and accumulation of bacteria. These factors are triggered by the following:
  • Hormones: Particularly during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.
  • Certain medications: Anticonvulsants, corticosteroids, sobriety drugs and certain birth control pills (those that contain only progestins) may cause acne.
  • Family history of acne
  • Stress: When you're under stress, your body produces more androgens (a type of hormone). These hormones stimulate the oil glands in your skin, which can lead to acne.
  • Personal care products: Oily lotions, sunscreens or hair products can cause acne.
Prevention is better than cure as we know it; here are some tips from Sixwise Child Health Care and Skin Care Tips to guide you how to avoid acne:
  1. Wash your face twice a day, gently with a mild facial cleanser and as much as possible use only natural skin care product. This will remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
  2. Don't scrub your skin vigorously, as this can cause irritation that makes acne worse.
  3. Women, don't go to sleep with your makeup on, as this can clog your pores and contribute to acne.
  4. If you already have acne, over-the-counter acne products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may help.
  5. Don't pick or squeeze any existing blemishes, as this can cause infection or scarring.

Monday, December 1, 2008

What are the benefits of YOGA to the body?

In Sanskrit an ancient Indian language, the term Yoga refers to a union. It is said to be the oldest defined practice of self development, a practice of physical posture or poses. Yoga is more than a stretching; it is about creating balance in the body by developing both strength and flexibility. But how can yoga affect the body?
Yoga brings together the mind, body and soul that is why it has a lot of health benefits. Here are some health benefits of YOGA:
  • reduced stress
  • sound sleep
  • reduced cortisol levels
  • improvement of many medical conditions
  • allergy and asthma symptom relief
  • lower blood pressure
  • smoking cessation help
  • lower heart rate
  • spiritual growth
  • sense of well-being
  • reduced anxiety and muscle tension
  • increased strength and flexibility
  • slowed aging process
Yoga is something that is worth a try for your health and wellness though we have to make sure that we have a good understanding on what type of yoga suits you well as well the benefits it can give you. Here are some of the types of yoga with a short description:
  1. Hatha: One of the most popular types of yoga (if not THE most popular), hatha yoga is meant to achieve balance between the mind and body. It includes traditional yoga postures for all levels, and is often a general term used to describe a collection of yoga styles. (Many of the types of yoga below are derived from hatha yoga.)
  2. Dru: A series of poses are performed to help you find your inner tranquility and strength, as well as improve your well-being.
  3. Bikram: A series of 26 poses are performed in a heated room (the temperature can be anywhere from 90-100 degrees F) to make your body sweat. The heat in the room100 degrees F) to make your body sweat. The heat in the room is meant to increase your body's flexibility, reduce the risk of injury and help you to detoxify.
  4. Anusara: Meaning literally "to step into the current of divine will," anusara is meant to promote awareness and well-being along with body alignment.
  5. Integral: A gentle form of hatha yoga that emphasizes breathing, chanting, meditation and purifying the body's energy channels.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Reality of Premature Aging

Aging is a natural way of life. As we grow old aging is manifested on how we look specifically on the face. But what happens if aging is manifested at early age? It is a premature aging.

Premature aging is a term used to describe an early appearance of aging before old age. It has two types: intrinsic (internal) aging and extrinsic (external) aging. Intrinsic aging is the natural process of aging which occurs as you grow old and involves the following:
  • Collagen production slowing (collagen contributes to skin's firmness)
  • Elastin production decreases (elastin contributes to skin's elasticity)
  • Fat cells begin to disappear (which can lead to sagging skin)
  • Your skin losing its ability to retain moisture
  • Frown lines and "crow's feet" appearing due to small muscle contractions
  • Dead skin cells not being shed as quickly
  • Slightly less turnover of new skin cells
Usually all of these changes start to occur when you are in 20’s and the signs of intrinsic aging are the following:
  • Fine wrinkles
  • Thin and transparent skin
  • Loss of underlying fat, leading to hollowed cheeks and eye sockets as well as noticeable loss of firmness on the hands and neck
  • Bones shrink away from the skin due to bone loss, which causes sagging skin
  • Dry skin that may itch
  • Inability to sweat sufficiently to cool the skin
  • Graying hair that eventually turns white
  • Hair loss
  • Unwanted hair
  • Nail plate thins, the half moons disappear, and ridges develops
On the other hand, the normal aging process becomes a premature aging when external factors often act together. Premature aging usually cause by repetitive facial expressions, sun exposure and smoking.

Here are some Sixwise.com health care tips on how to prevent premature aging:
  1. Avoid smoking. Too much exposure to cigarette smoke will increase the wrinkling and dryness of skin.
  2. Avoid too much exposure to the sun. Too much exposure to the can also cause wrinkling and skin dryness. It can also cause skin cancer.
  3. Have a healthy diet. Having a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will provide you plenty antioxidants which is good for the skin.
  4. Have enough exercise. Exercise tones muscles and helps promote blood flow -- necessary for healthy skin and body.
  5. Avoid too much alcohol. Over time, alcohol can permanently damage blood vessels in the skin, causing you to appear flushed.

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Reasons Why Stress is not good for you

Every one of us has its own responsibility in life and that includes managing finances. And knowing that the economy is on the rocks today most of us are having personal finance difficulties. According to reports most stress are related to financial issues.

Stress is a fact of nature wherein an individual reacts with a particular event or circumstances sometimes called as stressor. Experts say that stress can be good or bad. Good stress is that stress that gives you a quick and light impact that can be helpful like for example during emergency situations where a driver has to slam on the breaks to avoid accidents. On the other hand bad stress is that stress that happens continuously or frequently. This stress can actually wear off your body and may cause health problems. Here are some common results of stress:
  • Fatigue
  • Feelings of irritability or anger
  • Lying awake at night
  • Feelings of depression
  • Lack of motivation
And because of stress many are coping with stress in unhealthy ways like overeating, drinking alcohol, too much napping, smoking, and sometimes skipping meals. Instead of giving positive results you will be ending in much worst problems.

In one of the SIXWISE.COM free health and wellness article, they featured Marry Maddux relaxation techniques to cope up with stress:
  1. Stop and “Do Nothing”. Stopping and doing nothing from time to time is a mini relaxation. It will help you reset to keep you going during the day.
  2. Take a Deep Breath. "Take a deep breath" has become a cliché -- you hear it on sitcoms, in conversations, everywhere -- and for good reason. It helps!
  3. Observe the Natural Flow of Your Breath. This is perhaps the easiest way to relax with the breath. Take a break and simply bring your attention to your breathing. Notice how the breath moves in and out, how it feels, how your body moves as you breathe.
  4. Lie Down and Rest.
  5. Stretch. Simple stretching can do wonders.

Friday, November 7, 2008

How bad is Broken Heart?

Did you ever felt bad about family situations, relationships and career with severe chest pains? If yes, maybe you are having a broken heart syndrome.

Broken heart syndrome or “Heart break” is a common term for stress cardiomyopathy, it is used to relate intense emotional pain or suffering after distressing situations. Situations like traumatic romantic breakup, shock of a surprise party or death of a loved one may trigger broken heart syndrome. A flood of stress hormones are unleashed, taking a drastic toll on the heart that mimic heart attack which can be life threatening.

The difference with heart attack and broken heart is that broken heart syndrome recovery happens within few days and is completely recovered within two weeks time.

Symptoms of a "broken heart" can manifest themselves through psychological pain but for many the effect is physical following is a list of common symptoms that occur:

  • A perceived tightness of the chest, similar to an anxiety attack
  • Stomach ache and/or loss of appetite
  • Partial or complete insomnia
  • Anger
  • Shock
  • Nostalgia
  • Apathy (loss of interest)
  • Feelings of loneliness
According to the experts preventing broken heart is easy. You have to know the how broken heart syndrome occurs. You must live a healthy lifestyle and you must learn how to control too much emotion especially when unwanted situations and unforeseeable stress occur. And for those who are recovering from broken heart, it is suggested that they should take a rest and drink plenty of fluids and keep their selves busy like exercising , it will not only keep your body health but also your mind healthy.

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Understanding Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen and a biological system's ability to readily detoxify the reactive intermediates or easily repair the resulting damage. It is also involved in aging and chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

Normally free radicals are present in our system and even the healthiest person has it. It is usually kept wrap under in the body where they cannot cause harm to the body but when it exist in the body in excess then the harmful condition known as oxidative stress occurs.
Free radicals may take over your body in two ways; one is that you are exposed on abundance of them due to environmental pollutants and toxins like cigarette smoke, alcohol, air pollution and radiation, and the other one is that your body is lacking of health compounds like antioxidants that fights free radicals.

In one of the free newsletter issues of SIXWISE.COM Health and Wellness here are some tips on how to fight free radicals:
  1. Eat an antioxidant-rich diet.
    Anti-oxidants help prevent oxidation. And eating healthy diet life fruits, vegetables and nuts and other anti-oxidant foods is helpful.

  2. Exercise sensibly.
    Exercise enhances the body's ability to handle stress more than it harms the body through stress.

  3. Consider chiropractic wellness care.
    Chiropractic care appears to improve the ability of the body to adapt to stress.

  4. Take time to relax.
    A stressful, anxiety-filled daily routine will wear you down, no matter how healthy your lifestyle

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Tips on how to have a correct body posture

According to the medical definition of posture, as a whole it is the carriage of the body or the attitude of the body. And it is said that good body posture could benefit your health.

Basically having good posture aids on how to look good and gain more self confidence. If you are about to compare someone who is slouching while walking to somebody with correct posture, you will find certainty in the person who are walking in posture.

Other than the the way you look, there are also health advantage on having a good body posture. Primarily, this benefit occurs when body posture is correct and your muscles, organ, joints and bones are not in tension. Here are some health benefits of having correct posture:
  • Minimize your risk of many neck and back problems.
  • Ensure that your joints don't wear abnormally, which can lead to arthritis.
  • Be able to use your muscles more efficiently, because your bones and joints will be in the correct alignment. This will result in less fatigue, as your body will require less energy to move around.
  • Prevent your spine from becoming fixed in an abnormal position. This can lead to condensed blood vessels and nerves, and problems with muscles, discs and joints, which can lead to headaches, fatigue and even problems with organs and breathing.
  • Experience fewer strains and pains because you won't be overusing certain muscles and joints, nor putting unnecessary pressure on bones, joints and organs.
  • Put less stress on the ligaments holding the spine's joints together.
In one of the released free newsletter or SIXWISE.COM, here are some tips on how to improve body posture while standing:
  • Keep your weight on the balls of your feet, not your heels
  • Let your arms hang naturally by your side
  • Keep feet about shoulder-width apart
  • Don't lock your knees
  • Keep your head level and in line with your neck and spine, not pushed forward
  • Keep your shoulders upright
Posture tips while sitting:
  • Keep both feet flat on the floor (if your feet cannot reach the floor, adjust the chair or use a footrest)
  • Align your back with the back of the chair
  • Don't slouch or lean forward
  • Adjust the chair so your knees are even with your hips, or slightly higher, and your arms are at a 75-90 degree angle at the elbows
  • Keep your shoulders straight
  • Choose an comfortable office chair with good back support
  • Get up often and stretch
  • and stand up straight