Working Low, National Wellness Month, Fire Hydrants
Working Low
Performing work tasks at ground level or in trenches or pits can cause discomfort in the lower back, neck, hips, and legs. When working low or at ground level, take frequent breaks to reverse your posture by standing upright and extending at the lower back and neck. Pre-planning the job by keeping tools and equipment nearby can help reduce additional excessive bending and twisting. Finally, consider rotating job tasks across employees to reduce sustained postures.
National Wellness Month
August is National Wellness Month. Consider using this month to reflect on ways to prioritize self-care. Focus on getting enough quality sleep, moving your body, and eating a well-balanced diet. Additionally, taking care of your mental wellbeing by managing stress, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in self-compassion can lead to improved mood, self-esteem, and overall happiness and life satisfaction.
Fire Hydrants
“Fire hydrants” are a great exercise to strengthen your glutes and hip muscles. Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and your knees under your hips, maintaining a neutral spine. Brace your core to keep your back flat, and keep your knee bent as you lift one leg out to the side until it is almost parallel to the floor. Slowly lower the leg back and repeat on the other side. Repeat 10 times on each side for 2-3 sets.
