Tuesday, April 7, 2015
5 Surprising Moves to Reduce Back Tension
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Can Yoga Eliminate the Need for Back Surgery?
Friday, May 23, 2014
Barbecue Games to Get in Shape for
Yard Games
Summer Races
Swimming
Hauling the Gear
Foot Races
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Tips for Working Out During the Rainy Season
Join a Gym
Stretch Indoors
Dress Warm
Thursday, March 27, 2014
How to Lift Heavy Objects Correctly
Added tips:
- • Keep the back flat
- • Put yourself as close to the object as possible
- • Tighten the abs for extra support
- • Grip the item (firmly) with your entire hands, not just your fingers or palms
- • When moving, keep your body straight. Don’t twist or bend, but move your feet and legs with the object.
Monday, March 17, 2014
Happy St. Patrick’s Day – The Perks of Being Green
Jiminy Cricket
The famous conscious/grasshopper combo from Pinocchio. He taught us how to tell right from wrong while proving no attire is too fancy for an insect. Plus, with his amazing jumping abilities, Jiminy could get around easily without putting a strain on his legs or back.Kermit the Frog
Though his hit single reminds us that being green isn’t all that easy, his Muppet status has us believing otherwise. How many times has he fallen, been thrown, or contorted on screen? And he has zero injuries to show for it. Here’s to hoping the rest of us can be so lucky.The Incredible Hulk
Who needs to worry about the proper methods of lifting when your muscles defy physics? Still able to live most days as a “normal” human, all it takes is a swift bit of anger to rearrange the living room.Shrek
Another strong lifter, Shrek would likely laugh at the idea of a weight belt. Just give him a forest and trees that need moved and he’ll get the work done in no time, and without the help of heavy machinery.Gumby
This former cartoon star showed us just how important it is to stay flexible. Watch him bend and stretch his way through almost every situation, without so much as a strained muscle to show for it.The Wicked Witch of the West/Elphaba
When you have green skin, you also have power. Or at least that was this evil character’s mantra. She even traveled via broom to save on fuel and avoid poor lumbar support that came with buggies. So long as she stayed away from water, her green skin was a huge advantage.Yoda
– Though he might’ve talked in riddles, Yoda is arguably the most powerful Jedi master of all time. A few lessons from him and you’ll never have to worry about manually moving your sunken spaceship from a foggy creek again.Tuesday, January 7, 2014
What Rear Health Can Do for Your Posture
The derriere is where you sit, the mid-point as to how you stand, and it hosts more cushion than any other part of the body. So, firm or not, it’s important to keep it in good health. But aside from society’s definition, a healthy rump simply means a proper place to sit; staying seated should not be painful. You should also be able to sit with even weight on both cheeks so that the spine is properly aligned and held into place. This will increase blood flow, reduce tensions and pains, and create a more bodily friendly sitting posture. Healthy fundament muscles also reduces lower back pain and reduces the amount of effort it takes to walk.
Additionally, pants should fit comfortably; jeans that are too tight can cut off circulation, actually lowering the effects of proper posture. Through proper weight displacement and with plenty of breathing room, you can easily reduce those nasty slouching habits and work toward creating a healthier hindquarters.
Whether you’re proud of your fanny, hide your glute under layers of clothing, or are indifferent toward your haunches, a properly functioning posterior can offer great health benefits. [So Confident]
Start giving your behind the attention it deserves for an easy wellness boost.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Stretches to Improve Lumbar Support
First, start with small stretches to get your muscles loosened and warmed up. Exercising on “cold” muscles – especially within an already injured area – can greatly increase the risk for tightness and ongoing pains. This can be done by simply bending at the waist and reaching for your toes, leaning side to side, or bending sideways with an arm above your head. Start slow to see which movements ting or pull in the back; you will also increase your flexibility over time.
Bach Arch
This move is done standing, with feet placed shoulder-width apart. Palms should sit on the lower back while you bend backward and take deep breaths. Hold for five seconds and repeat multiple times.The Pelvic Tilt
Next, try lying on your back and placing your arms flat on the floor, knees should be bent with the bottom of your shoes also on the floor. Now, press your rear into the floor so the base of the spine makes contact. Hold this for a few seconds and repeat several times.Side Stretches
Similar to warm up movements above, the side stretch can help loosen muscles that are harder to locate in “regular” poses. Place one arm straight up into the air and bend the side toward that arm until you feel it stretch. Hold and alternate sides/arms for an even, thorough stretch. [Nismat]Gaining flexibility throughout the lumbar and lower back is one of the quickest and easiest ways to add strength. Incorporate these moves into your daily routine for a stronger, less painful lower back.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
The Benefits of Lumbar-Focused Exercise
But that’s just a portion of the benefits that lumbar exercises have to offer.
With stretches alone, the lumbar area can loosen, relax, and even lengthen itself. This means added comfort, support, and an easy way to help gently brush away recurring pains. This goes for legs and rear stretches as well. Both muscles correlate with the back, and stretching them will travel up and into the area that needs it most. The more regularly you stretch, the more benefits that can be found from keeping a loosened back.
Another added benefit comes from removing pressure. Through chair (or bench), step, or medicine ball work, you can easily remove bodyweight and pressure from the back. This allows the body to gain some much needed relief, not to mention lessen any swelling or excess weight that may be causing additional pain.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, lumbar exercises, strengths, and conditions the entire back. This means that during new or strenuous activity, the area is ready for whatever it may encounter. Not only does this reduce the chance of an injury, it’s great motivation to stay in shape. Regular movement = healthy back.
To keep your entire lumbar area in healthy working order, consider adding back-orientated exercises into your daily routine.
Stay tuned for even more back-related strength and exercise tips.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Four Yoga Poses to Reduce Back Pain
To receive the most back relieve out of your yoga routine, try these proven poses. Designed specifically to stretch and heal the back, these exercises will have you feeling better in no time. Best of all, they’re great for those of all yoga backgrounds.
4. Fists Forward Bend
Performed by bending the knees and bending until your torso meets your thighs, this pose allows the back to deeply exhale and reduce tension. You should also place your fists in opposite elbow bends to create a cohesive motion with the arms.3. Downward-Facing Dog
Perhaps one of the most popular yoga poses, downward-facing dog takes place by planting the balls of your feet, and bending until your arms touch the ground. The body should bend at a 45-degree angle, creating a relaxing, yet stable pose. Keep your head down to avoid a neck strain during this pose.
2. Wall Plank
With the wall plank, you can get extra help (yes, from the wall) during your exercise. Stand arm length away, then place your hands flat on the wall, fingers up. Legs should be straight, while the hips and stomach bend at a 90-degree angle.1. Pigeon Pose
Generally for the flexible, the pigeon pose takes place when one leg is bent, and the other left straight to stretch and reduce back pressure. Here, the right knee should touch the right wrist (as if from downward-facing dog), with the tops of your feet touching the floor. Hips can then be centered and pushed down for added relief.Start practicing these poses today for an easy at-home cure for back pain.
And if you need more instruction (or pictures), head to MindBodyGreen.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Exercises to Improve Back Health
One of the easiest ways to loosen up the back is through regular movement. By stretching and exercising your back, you can easily work to reduce ongoing strains.
To receive continued relief, remember to get moving on a regular basis.
Back Stretches
If you don’t enjoy exercise or aren’t physically able, stretching can be a great alternative. Raise your arms, twist your upper body, or ask a friend or family member to help stretch you out. Leaning and reaching offer great muscle toning options as well.No matter your agreed-upon routine, stretching can greatly improve mobility and blood flow throughout the back.
Swimming and Other Forms of Cardio
Swimming is one of the best exercises for a back-friendly workout as it eliminates gravity. Without excess stretch or pull, the back can relax and heal in a stress-free environment. This can be done by swimming laps, treading water, or even walking in deeper water (stomach to chest level).By providing resistance without gravity, swimming can get you moving without adding unnecessary pressure. Other forms of cardio such as jogging, biking, hiking, etc. offer equal perks, but should only be done by those with strong, healthy backs. Talk to your doctor if you’re unsure if these activities are back friendly.
Yoga
Much similar to stretching, yoga allows participants to stretch and strengthen the back at the same time. What’s great about the sport is that it can be adjusted to virtually any user’s comfort level. Start off slow and work up to more intense levels of exercise that help both the back and the rest of your body.When taking classes, ask an instructor for back health poses to get the most out of your sessions. (Which you can then practice at home.) From invasive exercise to light stretching, there are a number of moves that can help improve one’s back health.
Test out the above, talk to an exercise guru at the local gym, or check with your doctor to see which moves will best help you and your back.
Monday, July 20, 2009
New Products for Back Pain Relief
These products for back and body health are now available at Contour Living:
TracCollar is a comfortable, portable, and an effective home traction device that provides unprecedented control. The TracCollar is operated by 2 hand held inflation bulbs. Each one inflates one side of the collar and then both combined create an upward pressure on the head, providing traction and relieving pressure from pinched nerves and sore muscles.
Therapeutica Back Support for auto and office chairs. The ultimate in full back, side and lumbar support.
The BodySport Professional Back and Body Massager.
Thumper Versa Pro Massage for back, legs and feet. The VERSA PRO is the best total body massager made! For back, legs and hips, hands and arms, and feet. It has 13 different massage settings, a remote control and 7 auto programs. There is not a massager like this anywhere
Therabath Professional Paraffin Wax bath - Hospital grade paraffin wax warmer for hands, feet, face and body. Therabath has been the leader in paraffin heat therapy since 1962.
Fitball Office and task Chair - Work your body and back while sitting!




Monday, April 27, 2009
New 15-Minute Better Back Workout Book and DVD
Many of our readers experience back pain and discomfort issues. Studies show that nearly 80 percent of all people will suffer some type of back problem in their lifetime. We're pleased to introduce a new combination book and DVD with four 15-minute workouts, designed to improve and maintain your back.
The 15-Minute Better Back Workout is designed to provide proven beneficial exercises, for your back and body, in just 15 minutes a day, three times per week. Strengthen your back, reduce back pain, and prevent future back problems with this book and DVD. It provides:
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Clear step-by-step photos show you the details of each exercise
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Live-action DVD demonstrates all four exercise sequences provided in the book
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Written by Suzanne Martin, an experienced Pilates teacher and lead physical therapist and lead physical therapist for the Smuin Ballet in San Francisco
The 15-Minute Better Back Workout book and DVD is $16.99 - Buy your copy today!
Excerpt from book:
"Revitalizing the Back:
We are living longer lives and we all want the best of health. Regularly revitalizing and renewing the cells of the body by eating well and staying mobile is key. Working on revitalizing the back is one of the cornerstones of health. It enables us to remain active for as long as possible.
This revitalizing program uses many quick repetitions to stimulate the body from different angles. The structure of the exercises forms the basis of the rhythms, which will regulate your breath as you exercise. Notice how the Arm Swing and the Leg Swing both have a waltz-like quality.
Tips for revitalizing the back:
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Each exercise has a natural rhythm - As you exercise, accentuate this rhythm, as if you were showing a friend how to do it.
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Notice how you breath subtly changes from exercise to exercise. Let your body go with the rhythm. Sometimes it even helps to hum along as you go.
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Inhale through the nose. Direct air into the back of your throat. Open the lips and gently exhale through the mouth
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Modify When Needed. You can hold the Prone Rocker position still and simply hold the Plank Balance for a couple of breaths. "
Available now at Contour Living Order Yours today.
Shop Contour Living Now!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Get Your Back In Shape in 2009
Hi Contour Living and Back to Health subscribers. Now is the time to get your back in shape! Not only do we have great pillows and cushions, we offer some wonderful products designed to improve your back and spine health.
Inversion therapy has become very popular in recent years - not only can it help treat back pain, but it's also used as a way to reverse some of the effects gravity has on our bodies. Consistently, our customers rave about the quality and design of Inversion Products from Teeter Hang Ups! We carry their brand new EP-550 and EP-950 models, with new "flex technology" tables. Contour Living has the absolute lowest prices on Teeter Inversion Tables, and we offer FREE Shipping! - Read all about the new inversion tables here or see our selection of inversion tables at our store..
Other proven products designed to improve your back include the True Back and Lumbar Extender traction devices and inversion products from Health-Mark. Also try the Spine-Worx device designed to align the spine.
| Plus each of our Teeter inversion table ships with a quick-reference laminated owner's manual attached to the frame, and an instructional DVD which provides guidance for assembly and use of the table. Also included on the DVD are five 10-20 minute stretching and exercise classes by Dr. Shawn. Using the Teeter Inversion Table is quick and easy! Simply set your height, secure your ankles and relax. Weight displacement caused by simple arm movement controls the rate and degree of rotation. It takes only a few minutes to decompress the spine. Use your Teeter several times each day to achieve maximum results. Order Now for FREE SHIPPING! (Domestic USA destinations only) | |
| The New Teeter EP-950 Inversion Table includes all of the features of the EP-550 Model, plus these features:
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| Both the EP-550 and EP-950 Models feature the following:
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Thursday, August 28, 2008
New Teeter Inversion Table Model

The New Teeter EP-950 Inversion Table includes all of the features of the EP-550 Model, plus these features:
- Ratchet Ankle Lock System - Features easy to reach extended handle for the ankle lock, plus a triple lock security feature.

- EZ Stretch Traction Handles - These handles allow for an increased stretching experience and traction while the muscles of your lower back are relaxed. These handles can also be used as a tool for intermittent traction and oscillation.
- Over EZ Handles - Larger padded support handles assist during inversion and ascent (back to upright)
- Pre-Set Rotation Control - The EZ Angle Tether Strap allows pre-set angles at 20, 40, 60 degrees and provides an easy guide to exactly the degree of inversion where benefits begin and the degree at which maximum benefits are realized.
- Over-Sized Medical Grade Frame
In addition to the above features unique to the EP-950 Model, All EP series Inversion Tables feature the following:
- Ergonomic Flex Technology - Patented design by teeter moves with you, accommodating stretches for great range of motion. Movement while inverted encourages realignment while it relaxes muscles. An adjustment pillow provides added comfort.
- Optimum Decompression Surface - The smooth surface reduces friction, allowing the body to slide and achieve the maximum decompression stretch.
- Ankle Comfort Dial - The new foot platform design dials up or down for smaller or larger feet, allowing the ankle clamps to attain a secure and comfortable fit.
- Quick, Compact Storage - Folds in just seconds to 28" x 16" x 66"
- Unique and Patented Security Features - Auto-Locking hinges, cam locks and heat-treated steel parts create a more secure and durable product.
- Precision Balancing - Custom engineering provides smooth rotation and controlled lockout in full inversion.
- Stable Base - Corner feet increase the frame base by 20%, reduce sliding and help protect floors.
- Smooth, Quiet Rotation - A de-rattler know and specialized pivot bearings ensure a life-time of squeak and rattle free rotation.
5 year Manufactures Warranty
Height Capacity: 4'8" - 6'6" Weight Capacity: 300 lbs. Assembled Dimensions: 48" x 27" x 61" Package Weight: 76 lbs
Teeter Hang Ups Inversion Tables represent the highest standards in inversion therapy. Each Teeter Inversion Table is backed by an industry leading 5 year warranty, and Teeter Hang Ups are independently tested to exceed quality and safety standards including UL60601-1, a medical grade standard. Plus each of our Teeter inversion table ships with a quick-reference laminated owner's manual attached to the frame, and an instructional DVD which provides guidance for assembly and use of the table. Also included on the DVD are five 10-20 minute stretching and exercise classes by Dr. Shawn.Using the Teeter Inversion Table is quick and easy! Simply set your height, secure your ankles and relax. Weight displacement caused by simple arm movement controls the rate and degree of rotation. It takes only a few minutes to decompress the spine. Use your Teeter several times each day to achieve maximum results. Order Now for FREE SHIPPING! (Domestic USA destinations only)
















while inverted encourages realignment while it relaxes muscles. An adjustment pillow provides added comfort. 


