100 Goals In 100 Days | Twelve

Unfortunately, I've developed persistent lower back pain over the last couple of years. I find this unacceptable before the age of 80. Like many of you, I spend a lot of time sitting in front of a computer in a static posture, and I've neglected to give my posture the attention it deserved. And so, it is without much surprise that back pain has taken up residence—temporary residence.

Today's goal was to begin the practice of daily back exercises—exercises designed to mitigate if not eliminate the problem.  The specific exercises I do are exactly as outlined in the book, Treat Your Own Back, which I would recommend if you experience occasional or frequent back pain—especially lower back pain.

One of the main points, and something you can start doing today if you're in the same boat, is to remember to stand up and walk around for the first five minutes of every hour.  I try to do this in combination with my version of The Power Of 48 Minutes.

For those of you familiar with the idea, I changed two things:

• Make it 45 minutes instead of 48 minutes. This is a minor compromise with the idea of 30 minutes of quality work (from The Now Habit), and it's easier to remember. Then again, perhaps the odd number of minutes (or even, as the case may be) make 48 just as memorable. Tomato tomahto.
• Take your 15 minute break from on the hour to 15 minutes past the hour instead of starting the break at 45 minutes past the hour and going 'til the hour. I find it more psychologically appealing to start from inside the hour and work until the end of the hour as opposed to sitting down and feeling as though you're at the very beginning with no time passed. It's a little mind trick that works for me.

DRL