COMPUTER USERS: 8 EXERCISES THAT SPELL RELIEF

Banish the mind and body fatigue:

          Do you spend a lot of time at your computer? The following exercises have been found to be really helpful in relieving some of the stress and strain associated with what the experts call "VDT Intensive Environments" (translation: getting stiff and worn out sitting at the computer all day). Give one or all of them a try if you find your mind or body fatiguing.

1. DEEP BREATHING: Breathe in slowly through your nose. Hold for 2 seconds then exhale through your mouth. Repeat several times.

2. HEAD AND NECK RELIEF: Turn your head slowly from one side to the other, holding each turn for the count of 3. Repeat 5 to 10 times.

3. SHOULDER ROLL: Roll your shoulders forward 5 times using a wide circular motion. Then roll your shoulders backward. Repeat 5 to 10 times.

4. UPPER BACK STRETCH: Place hands together in front of you at shoulder height, then push your elbows straight back. Hold a few seconds. You should feel a nice stretch in your shoulder blades. Repeat 5 to 10 times.

5. LOWER BACK STRETCH: While sitting, slowly bend your upper body between your knees. Hold for a few seconds, then sit up and relax.

6. WRIST RELIEF: Hold your arms straight out in front of your body. Raise and lower your hands to stretch the muscles in your forearm. Repeat several times.

7. HELP FOR HANDS AND FINGERS: Make a tight fist with your hands. Hold for a second. Then spread your fingers as far apart as you can. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat.

8. LEG LIFTS: Grasp the shin of one leg and pull slowly toward your chest. Hold for 5 seconds. Then do the other leg. Repeat several times.