01/10/2026
Self Care Saturday!
Here are practical, gentle self-care tips tailored for people who sit, type, and focus for long periods 💙
🪑 Posture & Ergonomic Support
Chair support: Use a chair with lumbar support or place a small pillow/rolled towel at your low back.
Screen height: Top of your screen at eye level to reduce neck strain.
Feet flat: Keep feet flat on the floor or a footrest to reduce hip and low-back tension.
⏱️ Micro-Breaks (Non-Negotiable)
Take a 1–2 minute break every 30–45 minutes
Stand, walk, or gently stretch (even just rolling shoulders or neck)
Set a timer or use a reminder app—pain often increases when we “push through”
🤲 Gentle Movement & Stretching
Neck: Slow side-to-side turns, ear to shoulder stretches
Hands & wrists: Open/close fists, wrist circles, stretch fingers
Hips: Seated figure-4 stretch or standing hip shifts
Spine: Seated twists or gentle forward folds
👉 Movement should feel relieving, not forced.
🌿 Nervous System Regulation (Huge for Chronic Pain)
Practice slow breathing: inhale 4 seconds, exhale 6–8 seconds
Try a brief body scan to notice where you’re holding tension
Use calming music or binaural beats while working or studying
Pain is not just muscular—it’s deeply connected to the nervous system.
💧 Hydration & Nutrition
Stay hydrated to support muscle elasticity and joint health
Include anti-inflammatory foods when possible:
Omega-3s (fish, flax, walnuts)
Magnesium-rich foods (leafy greens, nuts)
Avoid long periods without eating—blood sugar dips can worsen pain
🧠 Pacing & Pain Awareness
Break work into short, manageable chunks
Alternate mental tasks with physical movement
Respect flare days—productivity does not equal worth
🔥 Heat, Cold & Bodywork
Heat: great for stiffness and muscle tension
Cold: helpful for inflammation or nerve pain
Regular massage, myofascial release, or stretching sessions can help prevent pain buildup over time
🌙 Sleep & Recovery
Prioritize sleep positioning (support neck, knees, or hips)
Create a gentle wind-down routine—your body heals during rest
Avoid studying or working in bed to protect posture and sleep quality
💙 Final Reminder
Chronic pain does not mean you’re weak or doing something wrong.
Small, consistent self-care practices can make a big difference over time.