REMEMBER TO PRACTICE PROPER BODY MECHANICS When You Return to Work By now, many of you may have returned to the office, warehouse, or other place of business where you worked before the COVID-19 pandemic sent everyone home. That means you might be a little out of practice when it comes to using proper body mechanics. Practicing proper body mechanics essentially amounts to maintaining good posture throughout your activities. It reduces fatigue and prevents injuries. Here are a few things to keep in mind when getting back to your regular work duties. IF YOU SIT MOST OF THE DAY: Sit with your buttocks pressed against the back of your seat, with your knees at 90-degree angles, your feet flat against the floor and your shoulders back. If you’re typing on a computer, make sure your screens are at eye level so you don’t have to bend your neck as much. You should also take frequent breaks to stand up and stretch. IF YOU STAND MOST OF THE DAY: If you work in retail or have a standing desk, the most important body mechanic to remember is to not lock your knees. Locking your knees for too long restricts blood flow, which could cause you to pass out. Other than that, remember to stand with your feet flat on the floor, about 12 inches apart, and keep your back straight, shoulders down, and chest out.
IF YOU LIFT HEAVY OBJECTS MOST OF THE DAY: When you bend over to pick up a heavy object, always keep your feet apart (with one foot slightly in front of the other), and bend at the hips and knees, not at the waist. You should always use your arm and leg muscles to lift something, and hold the object close to your body at waist level. This will ensure that you move heavy objects with the most efficiency. If you need help healing injuries related to workplace body mechanics, please don’t hesitate to call Cornerstone Physical Therapy Health and Wellness Center today at 732.499.4540.
PEACH AND ARUGULA PASTA SALAD
Nothing says summer like a pasta salad filled with your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables, and this combination is the perfect way to cap off a warm summer day!
INGREDIENTS
• 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese • 2 large fresh peaches, diced or sliced • 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced • 1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved • 1 cup corn • 6 cups arugula, packed
• 1/2 tsp sea salt • Pepper, to taste • 2 tbsp lemon juice
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large pot of boiling water, cook pasta for approximately 9 minutes or until al dente. Drain pasta and place in a separate bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and toss with the feta cheese.
3. Add peaches, red onions, tomatoes, corn, and arugula to the pasta mixture. Lightly toss to mix well. Add more olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. 3 732.499.4540
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