comfort in both cases is being proactive. AT YOUR DESK Start by adjusting your office chair. Its height should be such that your feet rest flat on the floor, with your thighs slightly sloping down. You also want to ensure your elbows are bent at roughly 90 degrees to use your keyboard. Once you’re seated, make sure your monitor is at the right level. You want to be able to look straight ahead to view your screen rather than craning your neck downward. Those who work on laptops may want to invest in either an external monitor or keyboard and mouse to achieve this. IN YOUR CAR Similar to the desk scenario, you’ll want to start with
your seat. You want the seatback at a roughly 100-degree angle so you aren’t leaning back too far. Adjust your car’s headrest so the middle touches the back of your head, and ensure you are close enough to the steering wheel to avoid leaning forward. You’ll also want to ensure your vision is clear. Adjust your mirrors so you can see each of them without much head movement, and ensure your windshield is clean so you won’t have to strain to see. TAKE A BREAK Whether typing or driving, always be sure to take a break, especially if you feel neck pain on the way. Find a stopping point and stretch your legs. If the pain comes anyway and persists, you should consider seeking the help of a physical therapist.
Those who have spent long hours at a desk for work or behind the wheel on summer road trips are more than familiar with the cascade of sensations. First you feel a stiffening in your neck you can’t shake, then a twinge, and finally pain that begins to radiate out to your head and shoulders. You try to fight it, rolling your shoulders and nodding your head at odd angles. But by that point it’s often too late — you’ve got a pain in the neck. For someone who has to sit for long hours, neck pain can seem inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re sitting in front of a computer or driving on the open road, taking a few simple steps can help prevent the onset of soreness. While desks and cars require different approaches, the key to
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Green Bean and Sesame Salad
If you need an easy, healthy side dish with plenty of flavor, this green bean salad will be the perfect addition to your summer menu.
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped • Small bunch of fresh mint • Small bunch of flat-leaf parsley • Salt and pepper, to taste
INGREDIENTS • 3 cups green beans, ends trimmed • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
INSTRUCTIONS 1. Bring a large saucepan of water to boil; cook green beans for 4–5 minutes; drain well. 2. In a blender, mix finely chopped mint and parsley with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until combined. 3. Add dressing, onion, and sesame seeds to beans. Toss together. Cool dish, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
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