Eye Exercise

Rub your hands together to make them warm. (You can shake them or hold them in front of a heat vent if you prefer) Then close your eyes. Cover your eyes with your warm hands. Make sure your hands do not touch your eyelids and that you do not rest your cheekbones on your hands. If you want to place the weight of your head on your hands, put the weight on the forehead. Then look at the dark. If you see spots or zaps of light, wait till you see the dark. Don’t hurry. Do this at least twice a day for 5 to 15 minutes.

Exercise also helps lower your blood pressure. Your lungs will also benefit from exercise as they become better conditioned so that activities such as climbing stairs will not make you out of breath. Muscles that are not used become small and inelastic, but aerobic exercise will help tone your body by increasing muscle size, strength and flexibility while burning calories. Exercise can also help alleviate stress and make you more productive, so choose something that you enjoy and stick with it.

Arm Exercise

1. bend your arms so that there is a 90 degrees angle at the elbow

2. swing the arms forward and backward so the elbow is high at the back

3. try not to swing the arms to high or across the body in the front (hands should not be above shoulder height nor should they cross the midpoint of your body

4. keep the angle at the elbows at 90 degrees throughout the swings

It seems that almost everyone from time to time will use family life as an excuse for not having any time to exercise, missing out on even a single exercise benefit.

Technorati Tags: Exercise, Eyes, Needs

Upon entering the hotel, it’s hard not to notice the traditional Javanese architecture. The entire hotel is designed to resemble that of an ancient Javanese Palace . But alas, this 8-year old resort is considered a senior compared to many of the newer resorts and to keep up with the times, many of the rooms have been upgraded to provide more comfort and convenience to its guests. Such a contrast usually ends up with an awkward blend but in this case, it is tastefully done with both the ancient and modern style complimenting each other. If you prefer a slightly traditional feel to the interior of your room, the suites would suffice as they have yet to be upgraded.

The rooms are large in size but modest in amenities. The basics are present such as air conditioning, TV with in house movie and satellite channels, a safe, mini bar and a hair dryer. Every room has a private bathroom with a separated shower and tub as well as a balcony. Initially, we thought the air conditioning was not working but after speaking to the reception, we learnt that the air conditioning is wired to the balcony doors and will automatically shut off when the doors are open. All rooms have a beautiful garden or ocean view so be sure to request for a view that tickles your fancy.

There are four restaurants and one lounge within the resort itself, Café Melasti, Bali Luna Restaurant, Aloha Pool Bar, By The C and Samudera Lounge. Unfortunately, none of the outlets are open 24-hours so guests will have to find alternatives during the wee hours of the morning. Breakfast is served as early as 6.30am at Café Melasti for early birds who want to get an early start to the day.

Being situated away from all the hustle and bustle of the entertainment and shopping forces Aston to organize many different activities for its guests to participate in. Many water sport activities are available at the beach front while aqua aerobics sessions are conducted at the swimming pool. To make things more interesting, games and quizzes are held now and again to keep the guests on their toes. This myriad of activities enables guests to meet one another and make new friends during their stay.

The beauty of Aston Bali comes from its beach side. It is isolated which gives it a sort of calmness and a charm that takes one’s breath away. Many deck chairs are placed along the beach and because of its privacy, it is a perfect environment for sun bathing, nude or otherwise.

SD’s take on Aston Bali Resort & Spa

Although its location might be away from Bali ‘s thriving nightlife, the beauty and serenity of its beach side makes up for it. Its accommodation isn’t exactly 5-star material but the rooms are large enough to fit the entire Von Trapp family. The environment is conducive for business or pleasure and for both couples and families and the wide range of activities caters to individuals of all ages. Aston Bali Resort & Spa might not be as elegant and prestigious as the other hotels that surround it but it offers a different kind of holiday experience and it is attractive in a different sort of way.

Technorati Tags: Aston, Bali, Pleasure, Resort, Strictly

Upon entering the hotel, it’s hard not to notice the traditional Javanese architecture. The entire hotel is designed to resemble that of an ancient Javanese Palace . But alas, this 8-year old resort is considered a senior compared to many of the newer resorts and to keep up with the times, many of the rooms have been upgraded to provide more comfort and convenience to its guests. Such a contrast usually ends up with an awkward blend but in this case, it is tastefully done with both the ancient and modern style complimenting each other. If you prefer a slightly traditional feel to the interior of your room, the suites would suffice as they have yet to be upgraded.

The rooms are large in size but modest in amenities. The basics are present such as air conditioning, TV with in house movie and satellite channels, a safe, mini bar and a hair dryer. Every room has a private bathroom with a separated shower and tub as well as a balcony. Initially, we thought the air conditioning was not working but after speaking to the reception, we learnt that the air conditioning is wired to the balcony doors and will automatically shut off when the doors are open. All rooms have a beautiful garden or ocean view so be sure to request for a view that tickles your fancy.

There are four restaurants and one lounge within the resort itself, Café Melasti, Bali Luna Restaurant, Aloha Pool Bar, By The C and Samudera Lounge. Unfortunately, none of the outlets are open 24-hours so guests will have to find alternatives during the wee hours of the morning. Breakfast is served as early as 6.30am at Café Melasti for early birds who want to get an early start to the day.

Being situated away from all the hustle and bustle of the entertainment and shopping forces Aston to organize many different activities for its guests to participate in. Many water sport activities are available at the beach front while aqua aerobics sessions are conducted at the swimming pool. To make things more interesting, games and quizzes are held now and again to keep the guests on their toes. This myriad of activities enables guests to meet one another and make new friends during their stay.

The beauty of Aston Bali comes from its beach side. It is isolated which gives it a sort of calmness and a charm that takes one’s breath away. Many deck chairs are placed along the beach and because of its privacy, it is a perfect environment for sun bathing, nude or otherwise.

SD’s take on Aston Bali Resort & Spa

Although its location might be away from Bali ‘s thriving nightlife, the beauty and serenity of its beach side makes up for it. Its accommodation isn’t exactly 5-star material but the rooms are large enough to fit the entire Von Trapp family. The environment is conducive for business or pleasure and for both couples and families and the wide range of activities caters to individuals of all ages. Aston Bali Resort & Spa might not be as elegant and prestigious as the other hotels that surround it but it offers a different kind of holiday experience and it is attractive in a different sort of way.

SAN DIEGO, CA…

The American Association of Franchisee and Dealers (AAFD) announced Curves International, Inc., as AAFD’s Franchisor of the Year for 2009.

Curves International is the franchisor of Curves fitness centers, the world’s largest fitness network with nearly 10,000 franchisee-owned fitness clubs serving four million women worldwide. Curves is also one of the fastest growing franchise companies in history.

Notwithstanding the challenges of rapid growth and dynamic involvement in multiple channels of distribution, the Company has embraced a collaborative culture with its franchise network and has enjoyed a very positive relationship with its members as a result.

AAFD Chairman Robert Purvin cited Curves’ exemplary franchise culture as the primary focus of the AAFD’s recognition. “Curves management has encouraged and supported the organization of an independent franchisee association, including a willingness to engage the association’s elected leadership.”

“In the 15 years that I have been representing franchisee associations, my experience with Curves International has been utterly unique,” said Ron Gardner, the attorney for Circuit Fitness Association (CFA). “The company has supported a completely independent association, both financially, and through open and continuous access to Curves’ senior management and have embraced the CFA as a valuable source of information. That’s contributed to noticeable improvements in the system for both the franchisees and the franchisor—exactly how a healthy franchisor/franchisee relationship should work.”

“Curves International, under the leadership of Gary and Diane Heavin, as well as Mike Raymond, has shown tremendous support for the Curves Franchisee Association. This has been done through funding as well as an open dialogue with not only top leadership, but with the various department heads,” said Mary Ella Young, president of CFA. “Curves has always asked for complete honesty and has been very open to criticism when the CFA felt it was necessary. This never dissuaded them from their support of the CFA. Quite the opposite; they are interested and support the transition to being a completely independent and autonomous group.”

Under the wise leadership of company founders, Gary and Diane Heavin, Curves has defined itself as a franchise system built upon a culture of collaboration with and respect for its franchisee network, as well as setting a high standard for customer satisfaction and commitment.

Said CEO Gary Heavin, “We have always made every effort to work hand in hand with our franchisees—as partners and as friends. The CFA is an indispensable resource, providing invaluable feedback that allows us to serve our franchisees at a higher level. I am pleased to accept this award in recognition of the collaborative efforts of our corporate employees, our franchisees and the CFA.”

The Heavins opened the first Curves in 1992, and sold their first franchise in 1995. The company is headquartered in Waco, Texas. All Curves fitness clubs are independently owned and operated.

The AAFD’s Total Quality Franchising Awards will be presented during the Association’s Annual Franchisee Leadership Summit on Thursday, April 30, 2009, in San Antonio, Texas.

About Curves

Curves works to help women lose weight, gain muscle strength and aerobic capacity, and raise metabolism with its groundbreaking, scientifically proven method that ends the need for perpetual dieting. Curves works every major muscle group with a complete 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance. Founders Gary and Diane Heavin are considered the innovators of the express fitness phenomenon that has made exercise available to 4 million women. With nearly 10,000 locations in 70 countries, Curves is the world’s largest fitness franchise. For more information, please visit: www.curves.com.

About the AAFD

The AAFD is a national non-profit trade association representing the rights and interests of franchisees and independent dealers throughout the United States. Formed in 1992, The AAFD is focused on market driven reform to achieve its mission to define and promote collaborative franchise cultures that the AAFD describes as Total Quality Franchising. Since its formation the AAFD has grown to represent more than 50,000 franchised businesses throughout the United States. The AAFD currently has members in all 50 states and represents more than 100 different franchise systems.

The AAFD’s Fair Franchising Standards, Fair Franchising Seal, Trademark Chapters, and emphasis on Marketplace Solutions led to the Association’s recognition as a growing force in franchising. The AAFD’s Branded Partner programs add a new dimension to the value of AAFD membership. The AAFD provides a broad range of member services designed to help franchisees build market power, create legislative support of interest to franchisees, provide legal and financial support, and provide a wide range of general member benefits.

For more information about the conference or the AAFD, please call toll free – 800-733-9858 or visit www.AAFD.org.

Technorati Tags: 2009, Curves, Franchisor, International, Recognized, Year

Mauritius has numerous elegant resorts and hotels for couples to enjoy their honeymoon. However, the only name that is popular world over among couples who wish to enjoy truly their experience. That name is Dinarobin Hotel Golf and Spa. A perfect sanctuary set in a village setting of Le Morne Peninsula, is an ideal hotel to stay in if you wish to have an exclusive honeymoon.

Dinarobin is a five star hotel, which offers you to celebrate your intimate moments in complete extravagance and peace. The services and facilities offered at Dinarobin Golf and Spa are unmatched anywhere around the world. Spread on a seven kilometre glittering beach of the Indian Ocean, this hotel features an all suite accommodation having numerous recreational facilities including an 18 holes golf course.

The accommodation at Dinarobin Hotel Golf and Spa is one of a kind. You can choose between luxurious Mauritian style suites having different sizes and facilities. These suites have been beautifully furnished, and have verandas or balconies that constantly provide you with a view of the beach. You can choose between the Junior Suite having spacious bedroom and bathroom, Club Junior Suite Beach front having prime beach spot, Club Senior Suite Beach Front having a huge bedroom and bathroom along with a lounge and dining area or the Family Suite that comprises of two inter-linked suites.

The dinning and bar facilities at Dinarobin are incredible. You can choose between its seven restaurants that offer a wide range of menu options. Whether you want to have a private candlelight dinner at L’Harmonie Restaurant, or a romantic pool side French dinner at Saveur des Iles Restaurant or just a casual drink at the Le Morne Plage Restaurant right on the beach, the choices are limitless.

Dinarobin promises visitors that they are never going to have a dull moment during their stay. You can choose between numerous sports. They include football, volleyball, table tennis, tennis, aerobics, yoga, steps, and spinning etc.

Alternatively, water sports such as windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, snorkelling, kayaking, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing etc. can be enjoyed. If you are in no mood for sports, enjoy the evening with the live ballet performance, sega shows, fashion parades, Chinese dances etc and all this would be complimentary.

The highlight of this hotel is its golf course and spa by Clarins, Paris. Dinarobin Spa is known world over as the most beautiful spa having an immaculate design that exudes health and relaxation. You can pamper yourselves during your honeymoon by massages, saunas, hydro-massages, balneotherapy etc. The golf course on the other hand, is an extraordinary experience in its own. You can either choose Paradis Golf Club having a view of the beach and the lush mountains or Golf Du Chateau having a colonial feel or Tamarina Golf Estate and Beach Club having an African feel.

Technorati Tags: Dinarobin, Golf, Holidays, Honeymoon, Hotel, Mauritius

Luckily, manyFloridaretirementcommunitiesallowtheirresidentsto continuehaving an activelifestyle.These activeadult communitiesofferongoingactivitiesand regularfield tripswithlots of variety. Lookingfor qualitieslike these whensearchingfor a retirementcommunitywillensureyou’reable to continuethe life you\’ve always had.

Look For Retirement CommunitiesWith OngoingActivities

Manyactiveretirementcommunitiesoffera wide range of activitiesfor residentsto participatein. Retirement livingdoesn\’t mean retiring from life.Manyseniorlivingcenters;providea largevarietyof social activitiesas wellas ways to stay active. To findsuch centers;, lookfor retirementcommunitiesthatshow off theirrecreational and social calendars. Fromtai chi to bingo, these facilities always havesomethinggoingon. Fitness classesto keep you in shape, movie nights, bridgetournaments, arts and crafts, and musicalentertainment;nights are just some of the otheractivitiesthatseniorcommunitiesoffer.

Most retirementcommunitiesin Floridaalsohavepoolsthatallowyou to take a water aerobics class or simply relax in the pool or spa. Try a new hobby,or go back to an old pastime.No matter whatyou enjoy, you’resureto finda great way to spendyour time in a communitywitha full activitiescalendar.

Look For Senior CommunitiesThatSchedule Outings

Manyretirementcommunitiesofferregularfield tripsto nearbyattractions.This offers;residentsan excellent opportunityfor staying activeas wellas having the chance to do somethingtheymay haveneverexperienced.Look for communitiesthathavetripsto shopping areas,downtownareas,beaches, or unique localtourist locations. Floridaretirementcommunitiesmay offertripsto see a space shuttlelaunchat Cape Canaveral, or the opportunityto stroll through the different “countries” in Disney World\’s Epcot. Whetheryou enjoyantiquing, relaxingon a beautifulbeach,or just exploring the localculture, lookfor a seniorcommunitythatoffers;regularoutings to nearbyattractions to liven;up your routine.

Consider CommunitiesThatPromote Companionship and Variety

When it comesto retirementliving, mostretireeswantto stay as activeas theypossibly can. But the retired alsowantto maintain relationships,create new friendships and havecompanions to do activitieswith.When retired, manyretireesmay not knowwhatactivitiesare goingon in theirarea, how theywillget to themor who theycan go with.Activeretirementcommunitiesare just that, communitiesthatare active. As part of such a communityresidentswillhavethe opportunityto be a part of a group, visit new places;, and enjoynew things withotherlike-mindedpeople.

In searchingfor the perfect retirementcommunity, mostpeoplewantto finda placethatkeeps themactiveas wellas safe. ManyFloridaretirementcommunitiescreate such an environment,providingenough varietyin activitiesto keep theirresidentsbusywhile making suretheyare doingso in a safe group environment.

Technorati Tags: Active, community, Find, Fits, Florida, lifestyle, retirement

Every organization has numerous sections that support each other to ensure a smooth efficient and proud team. Each of these sections has a leadership team responsible for developing a team atmosphere.

Unfortunately at times there are people in leadership positions that fail to train their section as a team, their interest being for personal gains vice teamwork. I have worked with a few people like that and they are extremely detrimental to the success and pride of the people entrusted to them.

The senior leader or manager has to be engaged and involved in the development of every section in their organization ensuring everyone is receiving proper training concerning teamwork. This doesn’t require micro management; it requires knowing your team and observing their actions.

One tool I used with great success was to have all my leadership team meet once weekly and share idea’s and information. We discussed our competition and formulated a plan to keep our team on top. I had seven leaders sharing information with each other and building a teamwork atmosphere. I emphasized to them I expected each of their sections to work together just like the leaders were doing.

We weekly had 5 minute meetings advising everyone of new idea’s, giving credit to individuals that presented the idea. I am not talking about the leadership team but the team members. It is a wonderful thing seeing an entire team show their appreciation to another team member.

One other tool I used extensively to enhance teamwork was organized athletics to include aerobics, softball, basketball, touch football and fishing. The teams were integrated from each section not allowing an entire team from their personal section. I imagine by now you are thinking when do I have time to do all this. Leading isn’t easy; it requires a lot of innovation and brain storming. We held these events on Sunday afternoons, it wasn’t a required event since they were not being paid but the turn outs were outstanding and grew larger weekly. The events were a major topic of discussion all during the week which stirred up a lot of interest for people that had missed the event.

Enhancing teamwork requires the leadership team to be innovative and think of new idea’s to keep their team motivated. It doesn’t have to be expensive, just interesting and fun. It’s a great feeling being on a winning team as no one wants to be a loser.

Technorati Tags: Enhance, Teamwork, Ways

The first family already is leading by example: The president is a dedicated runner and avid basketball player, and the first lady has involved students in cultivating a vegetable garden at the White House to promote healthy foods. Most recently, Michelle Obama oversaw the opening of a farmers market just minutes from the White House, and the Treasury and Veterans Affairs departments.As an employer, we are looking for ways to create a healthier workforce, because we know that if you all are healthy and happy and moving, you’ll come to work and you’ll work really hard,” the first lady said to the market’s customers on opening day. “And as many private companies have demonstrated, making employee wellness a priority can save health care costs down the road and make for a stronger workplace.”

The president met with industry leaders in May to discuss strategies for improving employee health, and he directed the Office of Personnel Management to develop wellness best practices and a plan for the federal workforce. In response, OPM this summer announced its work-life campus initiative, a joint effort with the Federal Reserve Board, General Services Administration and Interior Department. The four agencies, located within blocks of one another, will develop and share facilities, possibly including green space and a healthy cafeteria.

The initiative is just one of several demonstration projects that will unfold nationwide. The campus concept allows agencies to experiment with cost-effective solutions to making the workplace healthier and to gather feedback from employees.

“We will work hand in glove over the next year to review and improve the services and facilities available to the more than 6,000 federal employees that comprise our campus,” OPM Director John Berry said in a statement announcing the program. “By combining our efforts, we can more adequately and economically address the issues of wellness and employee satisfaction.”

The administration also has asked agencies as part of the fiscal 2011 budget process to take inventory of their health and wellness programs. In a June memorandum, Office of Management and Budget Director Peter R. Orszag required all agencies to catalog their ongoing efforts with the aim of establishing a baseline of current offerings and helping OPM develop a comprehensive program. The goal is to see 75 percent of employees participating in health and wellness initiatives by 2010.

Agency leaders will be integral to the success of this effort. To set the tone and encourage some healthy competition, Orszag recently introduced an OMB pedometer challenge. Employees can log their steps and other health information on an internal Web site, where they can see how they stack up against the director and colleagues in other OMB divisions. Each month the top employee will be treated to lunch with the director, and the divisions with the highest average steps and the most improved average will receive a “healthy happy hour” of vegetables and red wine. In practicing what they preach, the Obamas and other administration officials are reinforcing the notion that a healthy workplace is a happy one.

A Healthy Investment

Worksite wellness programs have been shown to benefit both employees’ health and employers’ pocketbooks. In a 2008 review of 50 wellness interventions, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Task Force on Community Preventative Services found that office health programs reduced tobacco use and fat consumption, improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and increased productivity. The task force develops a guide to help communities tailor their own health programs and policies.

Many private sector companies already have invested in such initiatives. A 2009 survey by consultancy Watson Wyatt and the National Business Group on Health found nearly 80 percent of large employers offered health risk assessments, 60 percent had lifestyle improvement programs and 52 percent had weight management programs.

Aetna, a health benefits provider, has developed a broad wellness initiative aimed at keeping its own medical costs down. The program begins with a health risk assessment, which allows employees to get a physical and learn their body mass index, cholesterol levels and other vital numbers. Employees then can participate in Wellness Works, an incentive-based fitness initiative that awards points for physical activity and healthy food choices, and earn up to $600 annually in additional pay or premiums. Nearly 60 percent of Aetna employees nationwide participate in the program; many, including company president Mark Bertolini, take part in competitive team fitness challenges. Several Aetna locations also have onsite fitness centers with extended hours and a variety of cardio and strength classes.

Wellness Works serves as a model around which Aetna can design programs for its clients. “We are able to demonstrate to potential customers that there is a benefit to this,” said Fred Laberge, a company spokesman. Aetna’s annual increase in medical costs is about half the nationwide average of 8 percent to 9 percent per employee.

The goals of lower medical costs and healthier, more productive employees also drive Dell Corp.’s investment in wellness initiatives, said Tre McCalister, senior manager for global benefits. The technology company offers onsite fitness centers, local gym discounts and healthy café choices. In 2004, it launched Well at Dell, a customizable health improvement program that incorporates cash incentive-based exercise and nutrition tracking programs; telephone coaching for smoking cessation, weight and stress management, and physical conditions; and access to a nurse line. Dell also offers monthly webinars on such topics as cancer prevention, travel fitness and “deskercise.” Well at Dell has increased employee health and productivity and has reduced medical costs significantly since its inception five years ago, according to McCalister.

Federal agencies also have targeted employee health with a range of initiatives, giving the administration a head start as it develops a governmentwide wellness strategy.

Options, and More Options

Fitness centers and exercise classes already are common across agencies, particularly in areas with large concentrations of federal employees. Many offer basic equipment, aerobics classes and extended hours to accommodate work schedules.

For instance, as part of a comprehensive lifestyle and health program that began in 1978, CDC has professionally staffed fitness facilities on its six largest campuses, as well as smaller gyms in satellite offices. These centers offer instruction ranging from Pilates, tai chi and yoga to spin and body sculpting classes. Employees also have access to softball, basketball and volleyball facilities and measured walking trails.

Program fees vary. CDC appropriates funding for its facilities and classes so it can offer them free of charge. The Environmental Protection Agency, which has fitness centers at its headquarters in Washington and all regional offices, subsidizes memberships. Federal employees in the San Francisco area can join a central gym where rates vary according to pay grade, starting at $85 for GS-6 and below, and reaching $210 annually for GS-14 and above. Some agencies, including the State Department, partner with area fitness clubs to provide discounted membership rates. Fifteen gyms in the Washington area offer such deals to State employees, and participation ranges from three to 40 people, depending on the club.

Where gyms are not cost-effective, agencies have developed innovative alternatives. The Defense Contract Management Agency has a virtual fitness program employees can access by phone, Internet and e-mail. Components include workout planning and weight management tools, attendance logs, risk assessments, an incentives program and fitness center reimbursement.

To encourage physical activity, some agencies allow employees to visit fitness centers during work hours. CDC employees can negotiate flex time with supervisors. Coast Guard military personnel and Secret Service law enforcement officers are allowed three hours per week for physical activity and DCMA employees can use duty time to exercise.

Though fitness is a key feature of overall employee wellness, agencies also are developing facilities and programs to address other aspects of health, such as nutrition, stress relief and access to “green” space.

The Interior Department is revitalizing its headquarters, which includes a new cafeteria. “We want it to feature a variety of foods in a range of economical prices — especially organic, nutritional food from local sources — and we will work to make the facility itself green,” said Rhea Suh, assistant secretary for policy, management and budget. “The work-life campus initiative also ties into broader federal efforts on healthy food choices and reducing the carbon footprint of federal facilities.”

The Agriculture Department is making strides toward a greener workplace with the inaugural People’s Garden, a project to turn paved surfaces to grass, plant trees and promote energy efficiency. The goal is to build similar gardens at USDA facilities worldwide.

CDC hosts rotating farmers markets on its campuses and encourages employees to bring only healthy foods to meetings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s headquarters in Silver Spring, Md., offers a meditation group with nearly 70 participants monthly, as well as chair massage appointments and holistic nutrition lunch seminars. And in July, State began a six-month trial providing 10 bikes at its headquarters in Washington for employees to check out during work hours. According to officials, more employees than expected have taken advantage of the program and often ride between buildings in suits and loafers.

Raising Awareness

Part of the challenge in fostering a healthier workforce is making employees aware of their unhealthy habits and motivating them to change their behavior. To create a culture of wellness, agencies reach out to employees through educational activities. A number have onsite clinics that offer health services, allowing employees to minimize time and resources spent seeking basic care and to learn about disease prevention and treatment.

The State Department’s Office of Medical Services coordinates a health program for domestic and overseas offices. Employees can participate in smoking cessation programs, and breast cancer and bereavement support groups. The office organizes monthly programs on topics such as travel medicine, meditation and arthritis, posting videos of the sessions on the department’s intranet. The office also offers day-long health fairs in Washington with yoga classes and health screenings. State maintains primary care and health screening facilities and programs for employees posted abroad as well.

Other agencies offer health classes, screenings and immunizations free of charge to employees. The Securities and Exchange Commission hosts nutrition seminars and osteoporosis checks, and CDC organizes first aid, CPR and ergonomics courses.

A number of special events governmentwide aim to increase interest in health and fitness. EPA hosts an annual “Walk to Wellness,” a two-mile summer event in the Washington area. The agency plans to sponsor the walk quarterly and expand it to other regions. At the Homeland Security Department, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center sponsors a weight-loss competition among its offices, based on the TV program Biggest Loser, and Customs and Border Protection organizes a “HealthierCBP” fitness challenge.

In fall 2008, State’s Office of Medical Services/Health Promotion sponsored a series of four free hour-long nutrition and cooking seminars. The sessions, held over lunch and organized by The Cancer Project, a nonprofit for cancer prevention and health promotion, focused on incorporating low-fat foods, fiber, dairy alternatives and antioxidants into meals. Employees participated in discussions about nutrition, observed a cooking demonstration and sampled healthy dishes.

Recently, OPM launched FedsGetFit, a wellness campaign focused on fitness, nutrition, making healthy choices and prevention. The first event will be a fitness expo on Oct. 27, where agency leaders will join Congress members and National Football League players to promote work-life programs and participate in a one-mile walk.

In implementing new initiatives or growing current ones, agencies will face funding challenges. Work-life programs receive money directly from agency budgets, but agencies have made varying commitments to these initiatives. In the private sector, best practices suggest that comprehensive wellness programs cost $500 to $800 per employee annually.

As they determine the best places to make investments, agencies are looking for feedback and ideas from employees at all levels. “Not every idea is one you decide to implement,” said Mike Weber, an official at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards. “But the tensions [among competing ideas] help channel enthusiasm.”

In July, OPM outlined elements agencies should include in their wellness programs. Designated points of contact will report on agency health and wellness programs, services, costs and participation through an online WellCheck system. The goal is to bring agencies up to the standards outlined in July, while allowing them flexibility to tailor their offerings based on employee needs. Many programs are administered by human resources staffs, and OPM’s Berry chairs monthly meetings with the Chief Human Capital Officers Council to facilitate communication and cross-agency initiatives.

According to Wesley Carpenter of EPA’s Office of Administration and Resources Management, the administration’s involvement in employee health is an important promotional tool. “The [OPM] initiative is a catalyst and a great opportunity to expand our tentacles and reach more people,” he said.

Technorati Tags: Agencies, Challenge, employees, Healthier, lead, lifestyle

Like millions of golfers it’s a sport that can be played throughout your lifetime. Injuries in golf is common because it is one of the few sports commonly played by all age groups.

For most recreational golfers the only form of exercise is playing an occasional 18 holes of golf.

This can put a huge strain on the body of a person who otherwise doesn’t indulge in any type of physical activity.

Avoiding injury and staying in shape is the key for most golfers. While enthusiasm remains high, your body has never less aged. People lose flexibility, muscle mass and strength as they age, and that’s where problems start.

Since the golf swing involves an extreme amount of bending and twisting of the spine, as well as rotation of the hips and shoulders, senior golfers are at the greatest risk for injury.

Newer designs in golf equipment can help compensate for stiffness, lack of flexibility and other physical limitations older players might have.

Improved technology can lesson physical stress,only proper golf swing mechanics on the golf course can play an even larger role in preventing injuries.

Bending the knees before swinging, rotating the hip and spine during the golf swing and using correct range-of-motion techniques throughout the swing all reduce strain on the body.

Proper mechanics off the course, such as correctly lifting golf bags and equipment, and on going regiment of exercising is just as important.

That is why warming up before practicing or playing is crucial in preventing any kind of injury before it happens. Only after warming up it’s important to start out slowly.

If your golf club has a driving range or you can get to one before playing. I feel it’s very important to start with the clubs that produce the least amount of physical resistance.

Begin hitting a few wedge and short iron golf swings. You then build up your resistance to mid-irons and fairway woods. Finally finishing it off with your driver. Then you want to start cooling down in reverse order until your doing a few pitches and chip shots at the end of your work out.

Normally when I’m working out I will go through two large bucket of balls. If I feel really energetic I’ll do a third bucket.

Again, repetition and using the correct golf swing mechanics is the key to preventing injury.

Your training your brain the correct natural feel and your using the proper golf swing mechanics. That it becomes a part of you and it feels very fluid and natural in motion.

Practice makes permanent, and that is why you want the proper teaching aids to correct your bad golf swing flaws so it doesn’t result in you getting injured. I highly recommend using Medicus!

Many weekend or seasonal golfers put themselves at risk by trying to swing as hard as professional golfers, often after hibernating all winter. Sitting behind a desk or lounging in front of a TV all week.

They’ll go through the whole winter without taking a golf swing and when the nice weather comes they’ll go out and play 18 two days in a row. Then on the weekends, they’ll drive to the golf course, jump out of their car and start banging balls without warming up.

It’s no surprise we see so many muscular skeletal injuries among this group. Typical golf injuries include muscle strains and neck, spine and joint irritations.

A golfer whose golf swing is mechanically improper is using the wrong muscles incorrectly, which will lead to repetitive strain injuries as well as stress and frustration on the golf course.

This type of golfer is a perfect chiropractic candidate. A typical golfer loses on average about 5.2 weeks of playing time annually because of injury.

To keep your body in peak shape for the season. Doing year-round conditioning, such as low impact aerobic activities such as walking, biking or swimming can help keep the muscles and the cardiovascular system in good working condition.

Golfers need to regularly swing a golf club indoors throughout the winter months to stay limber and prevent stiffening. Go to the Y.M.C.A. or any other facility that has a driving net. If your fortunate enough to have a high basement ceiling you can install your own.

Once the season starts, make a habit of stretching before you hit the links. Maintaining endurance is also important, since excessive fatigue can lead to poor golf swing mechanics and result in injury. To keep endurance up and muscles conditioned, walk the course whenever you can, and exercise regularly between rounds.

The concepts of a proper golf swing are generally easy to understand, but difficult to perform. Being able to diagnose your own golf swing properly will help you out tremendously in the long run.

The major difference between an average golfer and above average golfer is that you can easily notice the different pains and strains based on his or her performance on the golf course.

When your golfing buddies see a sudden marked improvement in your game, don’t be surprised if they all don’t take up warming up more seriously before their next round.

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When a person is younger, the skin is elastic, bouncy and self-moisturizing. However, with age, it loses a little of its elasticity. The skin becomes thinner, and loses its capacity to rejuvenate itself. This happens when collagen is produced less and less which results in wrinkle formation and skin sagging especially around the eyes, the mouth, or in places where the skin is thinner. Other signs of aging skin are the appearance of dark spots due to sudden dryness of skin and loss of oil content of the skin on the face. The dryness is due the shutting down of the sebaceous glands which stop producing oil.

Although one cannot stop the process of aging, there are actually a lot a person can do to help fight wrinkles and look younger. If one aims to be lively and robust in their “senior” years, one needs to learn some anti-aging skin care secrets. Here are some anti-aging skin care tips that are the most frequently touted anti-aging techniques.

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Eat a low-fat diet that contains complex carbohydrates. The standard advice from the US government is to consume 5 fruits and vegetables and 3 servings of whole grains daily for vitamins and minerals and the other healthful micro-nutrients in plants. Drink five to eight glasses of water. Get no more than about 30-35 percent of daily calories from fat, with about 20 percent of that from unsaturated fat (e.g., 1 percent milk, olive and canola oil); 15 percent from protein; and the remaining calories from carbohydrates, with an emphasis on complex carbohydrates like oatmeal, whole wheat bread and wild rice.

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Exercise regularly. Build endurance and strength with exercise. Regular aerobic exercise is a “must-do” for anyone committed to slowing the aging process. Hundreds of studies show that exercise combats the loss of stamina, muscle strength, balance, and bone density that increases with age. The American Heart Association advises doing a single set of eight to 15 repetitions, using eight to 10 exercises, two to three times a week for a comprehensive strength-building program. If you are not a beginner, that’s about a 10-minute routine.

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Maximize antioxidants intake. Free radicals contribute to the onset of age-related diseases and antioxidants “neutralize” free radicals. Everyone should take a combination of antioxidants through diet and supplementation. Eat dark-colored vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, squash, and spinach for carotenoids and blue and purple berries for flavonoids. Because foods contain many classes of antioxidants that work synergistically, they are the superior source of antioxidants. But because we don’t always eat as we should, experts advocate the daily intake of supplements and antioxidants including 200-250 mg of vitamin C; 100-400 IU of vitamin E; and a mixed carotenoid supplement of 6-10 mg.

With some care and pampering, and living a happy life, one can have an excellent skin even in their golden years. Some are lucky and have a natural resistance to aging. Those who have not, depend on proper anti aging skin care treatment to keep their skin glowing and young.

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