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Big news!
First, allow me to apologize for the delayed release of this
newsletter. My computer died last week, taking with it all of my
writing, my photos (kids, cars, travel...), and my knitting patterns -
including the three I was developing for publication. This has been a
painful and nausea-inducing experience. I encourage you all to learn
from my mistake and back up your data TODAY. I'd been planning on doing
mine "tomorrow" for ages. Sigh.
Secondly, some of you know we've been planning to head back to
Oregon in 2010, but I didn't have a definite date to give you (we have
been waiting for information regarding husband Matt's medical
residency). Now it's official: We will be leaving at the end of June.
Pennsylvania has been terrific but it's just not home, and we really
miss the kids. Don't worry: I will take great care in handing you all
over to a wonderful acupuncturist. There's plenty of time to fix
whatever ails you before then anyway. :)
Thirdly, you all gave me a tremendous amount of feedback on the
book, and I thank you! I will have to restart the work I've done so
far (stupid computer!), but fortunately I was in the beginning rather than final stages.
I've had some interesting conversations with people in the publishing
industry and have a lot of decisions to make. What do you folks think
of paper vs. a digital book?
Okay then, back to our regularly scheduled program:
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Repetitive stress injuries happen when you perform the same
movement over and over for an extended period of time. Common examples
include carpal tunnel syndrome from using a computer, and a swimmer's
bad shoulder. To avoid injury:
1)
Try to reduce the repetitive nature of your motions. Get up and do a
lap around the office (or house) every hour or so. Change your routine:
Instead of typing on Tuesdays and filing on Wednesdays, do a little of
each both days, so you aren't making the same precise movements for
hours. Even small changes can make a difference. For example, my
knitting friends who have trouble will switch to a different size
needle (which affects hand position and motion) or even type of
project. The more variety the better.
2) Double check your ergonomics. Sitting at your
computer, you should be looking straight ahead at the screen. If you
are looking up or down, adjust either your seat height or the monitor.
Your elbows should be resting at 90 degrees, and your wrists should be
straight. Having them bent or cocked back for the keyboard increases
strain. When playing sports or working out, consult a coach
or professional trainer to be sure you're using good form. Learn the
anatomy relating to your activity. In addition to preventing injury,
your performance will improve! I used to be a bodybuilder and certified trainer,
so feel free to ask me if you have any questions.
3) Stop as soon as symptoms start. Give your body a
chance to heal. Ice and anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen may be
helpful here. Acupuncture will also reduce inflammation and relax tight
muscles. Rest and stretch gently, and do any physical therapy
exercises your healthcare professional recommends. Try to avoid that
activity for a while. Re-examine your routine and ergonomics to
identify any areas that need improvement. By nipping problems in the
bud, you can prevent a long-term aggravation.
Point of the Month: Yin Tang,
(Hall of Seal or Central Mark)
Yin Tang (pronounced "Tong") is located directly between the inner borders of your
eyebrows. It's useful for treating sinus problems and frontal
headaches, but it's most often called upon to calm the Shen (spirit).
If you are anxious or dealing with stress, you'll know why it's also
referred to as "The Valium Point."
Other cultures have recognized the importance of this point. It's also the
"Third Eye" and the 6th Chakra. In the short-lived TV show Eli Stone,
the title character experienced visions when his acupuncturist needled
him on the forehead (a little too high, unfortunately - I'm sure I'm
not the only person who wrote to them).
To use Yin Tang, simply press with a fingertip for 5-10 seconds. Take a deep breath, be grateful you've backed up your computer, and smile. Don't you feel better already?
Thanks for reading! Next month... Building your Yang!
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