Okay Healthy Writers….

So now that you are sitting in a supportive chair with adjustable arm rests and height

and your screen is at eye level

and the light is on, so you don’t strain your eyes

and your wrists are supported by a pad or an extra fancy external key board

and your external mouse is just the right size (so your wrist isn't unsupported)…

and you take breaks

and you feel good…..

NOW WHAT?

It is time to exercise and stretch.

The benefits of exercise do not need to be documented here.

I’m going to give you my favorites, the exercises I do every day.

If you can give them a catchy name, I will send you a special prize!

EXERCISES THAT COUNT:

1. Cardio vascular exercise: when in doubt, walk. Even if you only have fifteen minutes. Walk at a brisk pace or on your treadmill/elliptical.

2. Stretch your hamstrings. When your hamstrings are tight, we slump to pick up the slack.  


3. CRUNCHES. On an exercise ball or floor. Nice and slow. Back on the ground.

4. Lower back strengthener: on all fours, with back in stable neutral, lift opposite arm and leg. Switch sides. Repeat.

Here are two back stretches that might help, too:      (if they hurt, don't do them!)

5. Push ups. Ten.

6. Wrist stretch: on your back, hold arms straight, at 90 degrees to the body. Flex wrists (the opposite way they would arch at the computer) HOLD.  

7. Still on your back: stretch your neck gently: side to side,        then in sitting, bring your nose to your shoulder.  HOLD!!!!!

8. If you are a runner: you know your calves and quads need stretching, too. If you are not, think balance: Every big muscle needs strengthening and stretching.

Are you tired just reading this???

Put on music!  Count 5, 6, 7, 8!!!!!

Have a great writing day!  Apologies to any Tollboother who would have better taken advantage of the opportunity to post today.

Remember: if you can come up with a catchy name for my exercise list, I will really, seriously, send you a prize!!!!

-Sarah Aronson