- Sleep right. Make sure

that you get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Avoid sleeping on your

stomach. Sleeping on your side or back with a pillow supporting the neck

will insure proper support of the neck and reduce stress.

- Avoid looking up when

decorating the house and Christmas tree. Use a sturdy stepladder and step

up instead of reaching up. Do as much as possible at eye level. This reduces

stress and prevents neck injury and related symptoms such as headaches.

- Think about how you

lift. Always keep your feet apart, your back straight (vertical), elbows

and arms close to your body; bend your knees, start in a squatting position

and center your body weight over your feet.

- Avoid prolonged driving

or riding. Make frequent stops. Get out of the car and walk around. It

only take a 2-minute break every 45-60 minutes. You'll arrive at

your destination more refreshed and with a healthier back. Adjust your

seat and headrest to support your back and neck. Bring a pillow to support

your head in case you doze off.

- Keep up with your regular

exercise routine. Exercise is known to promote health and reduce stress.

- Stay connected spiritually.

Studies have found that people with spiritual connectness are better prepared

to handle the stresses of life.

- Relax. There are many

relaxation techniques, including one to be discussed at the next Health

Talk.

Dr. Marilyn L. Durden and certified

healing touch therapist Mary Nightingale will discuss ways to reduce stress

at the monthly Health Talk scheduled for Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. at Heritage

of Peachtree Retirement and Assisted Living Center, 1967 Ga. Highway 54

West in Fayetteville. The public is invited. Refreshments will be served.

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