Stretches

Adequate sleep

Probably one of the most important factors in healing is adequate rest. Nobody likes to be in the same room with the grouch that didn't get enough sleep. Your body utilizes sleep to repair damage done throughout the day, and refresh itself for the next day. I'm reminded of the advice I was given by Rob Wolf. "Get as much sleep as you can without interfering with your marriage or your job." I personally run better when I have had eight hours of sleep, and I can tell the difference in my RSI. My body feels more resilient and better able to cope with the stress of day-to-day life after a good nights sleep. Be sure you're getting an adequate amount of rest every night, as it will be different for everyone.

Here are some tips on how to get a better night sleep:
1. Make sure your room is as dark as it can possibly be.
2. Try not to spend leisure time in your bed reading magazines or books. Do your best to use the bed as a slumber utility only.
3. If you have things on your mind, write them down in a journal or a piece of paper before bed.
4. Try to keep a set schedule throughout the entire week, such as going to bed at 10 PM regardless of weekends.
5. Avoid drinking or eating several hours before bed.
6. Do something relaxing before bedtime, such as reading or listening to relaxing music.
7. Make sure you have a comfortable bed!

Meditation

When referring to meditation I am simply imploring you to spend a few minutes every day focusing on your breathing and tuning out the rest of the world. I would like you to do this so that you are more aware of your breathing throughout the day. Breathing is one of the most intimate actions we share with our environment. Many of us are so stressed out that we often breathe very shallowly or go long periods without breaths. I encourage you to take a more active role in your breathing and be sure to take full, deep breaths every chance you can. Also make it a point to check in on your breathing throughout the day and make sure you are not taking short little shallow breaths. Most of us are guilty of this. By paying more attention to our breath, we can ensure that our body is adequately supplied with the oxygen it loves.

Rest

When you think of rest I don't want you to think of sleeping. I want you to be more aware and take more frequent breaks, when using your hands. For instance, if you are going to spend 30 minutes on the computer, you should have at least three, one minute rest breaks, in that allotted time. There are various software programs, such as Work Rave, that will prompt you to take little mini breaks in between usage. These are very helpful as they are automatic reminders to take breaks. I encourage you to install the software from Work Rave and see if it helps you create a more balanced and more mindful work atmosphere.

You can download Work Rave from the following link:
>http://www.workrave.org/

Taking small breaks will allow your hands some time to recuperate from the demands you place on them.