In between your visits to our office, there are lots of things you can do to keep your body - especially your back - healthy. If any of this sounds familiar, it just so happens that your mother was right:

1. Sit up straight.
   Develop the habit of good posture. It makes a world of difference in the way your back feels.
   
   
2. Eat your vegetables.
   A good diet is important to your overall health-all those nutrients help your body repair itself. And keep your weight down. Carrying extra weight puts extra strain on the back.
   
   
3. Turn off the TV.
   Get up and move. Go for a walk. Add exercise to your regular routine. And when you have to sit for long periods, stretch regularly.
   
   
4. Put that down.
   Don't lift things that are too heavy for you. Lift with your legs, not your back. Don't carry around a heavy backpack or a heavy bag if you can avoid it. Don't sling bags, purses, or backpacks over one shoulder. The key is to minimize. Only take what you really need.
   
   
5. Go to sleep.
   Sleep is essential for your wellbeing. Just don't sleep on your stomach, which can strain the muscles in your neck and back. Practice sleeping on your side or back.
   
   
6. Consider using an adjustable stand up desk allowing you to switch back and forth from standing and sitting as needed.
   
   
7. Take a 10 minute meditation break to de-stress and refocus your energy.
   
   
8. Add a plant to your office space or main room. Nature has a soothing effect on our senses.
   

We'll talk you through some more specifics in your office visits. Until then, practice these basics.