Responding to Long Periods of Sitting

By now, you would have probably seen all the evidence against sitting for long periods of time and how it can increase the risk of major diseases. In many offices, particularly software development companies, there are now standing desks. Those can have their own side effects of loss of productivity and painful lower backs. The real question is just how much standing or moving around is enough. Are we supposed take a stroll or run around the block several times? A new study offers some helpful perspective, suggesting that even a few minutes per hour of moving instead of remaining in a chair might substantially reduce the harms of oversitting. It really just takes two minutes of walking to lower the risk. Of course, the study needs more data and further research but it still seems like we are on the right track.

Job Interview Advice

When it comes to job interviews, it can be utterly nerve wrecking. It does not matter if you are there in person or using internet phone services, you need to have "studied" for this test well in advance. Since many people worry about saying the wrong thing in an interview, you should remember not to say anything obviously stupid like badmouthing your previous employer and you should use your experience and education to make the argument as to why you would be the perfect fit for the job. Making a good first impression might start earlier than you think such as when you are waiting with the receptionist or even in the elevator. Also, make sure to smile because it can really go a long way. The way to sell yourself is to read up on the company's mission statement and practice saying how you could add to that mission statement. You should also practice saying your accomplishments out loud. Prepare for it as if your life depends on it, because in some ways it does. When you got ready for a final in school, you started several weeks ahead of time. Read up on the industry in general and not just the company where your interview is. Be over prepared, although I do not think there is such a thing.

Tricks for that Happy Feeling

Let me just get it out there that my absolute best therapist has four legs and a short stubby tail. When you interact with your pet, your body is more likely to release that warm and fuzzy hormone, oxytocin. After you are done playing with Fido, put on some music while you count your blessings. Being grateful has shown to improve moods dramatically. Another great way to get your happy on is to meditate. If you are the type that has a hard time with it, try out some mobile applications for the meditation. You could also try going outside for a walk or an intense exercise session. After all of that find some of those friends that tend to be happy all the time and go hand out with them. Like, in person. It might be a good idea to put away all those communications services and see someone face to face. When you are with them without any devices, you have a chance to really listen and that can go a long way in relationships.

Technologies Affected by the Internet of Things

In simple terms, the internet of things is being able to connect everything in your home from the lights to the fridge to the coffee maker. Connecting everything means that you will be able to have access to them right through your smartphone or any other internet connected device. Putting everything online is just the first step. You will also be able to collect the data using a cloud service and it can be used to function better and more efficiently. One of the advantages is that you will have a piece of mind about your home as far as security goes. A few sensors, detectors, smart plugs, IP cameras, a smart phone or a tablet and you are the master of your home, or office at any time and from anywhere. Cars will be better able to function and avoid accidents and even traffic through the use of big data. The internet of things and big data is also poised to really shake up the healthcare industry because it will let people monitor their own health and see the bigger picture.

Ways to Unplug

This is a very fast paced world that we live in where everything is always on and you are expected to be available 24/7. You tend to be looking at some sort of screen most of the time whether it is a mobile application or a computer. One of the things that you could do is cook something. The trick here is to find a recipe and then print it out and use that to cook. Keeping the screen out of the process will help you enjoy it more and it has so many health benefits. You could also write a thank you note. Like using actual pen and paper to write it. It will remind both of you why you are lucky to have each other. You could also put those sneakers on and grab your buddy, four legged or two, and get out there and move. Once you get back lay on your back and stick your feet up the wall. Just five minutes a day of sitting like that will have tremendous effects. Another great way to unplug is to read a book. You know those things that are bound and written on paper?

Stress Busting

Life and work can be stressful, especially if you are in software development. The landscape is constantly changing and it feels like you are working on updates more so than the actual concept. One of the things that you can do to banish stress is to change your passwords. This would be great on so many different levels. First of all, you are going to be increasing the security of your accounts. Secondly, thinking of creative passwords that you enter so many times throughout the day will give you pause every time you type it such as BH@ppy2day. You could also find someone to hug to get rid of that stress. Hugging someone causes you to release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes pro-social behaviors that can contribute to relaxation, trust and compassion. You could write down those problems that are nagging you. It can be amazing just how different a problem looks when it is on paper. So here is to having a better day.

Truly Get On Your Way To De-stessing

We live in a world where we are always running and never stop to take a deep breath and take a look around. We are always so busy with our software development projects and internet phone conferences that we forget how to live. And unless there is a saber tooth kitty about to chase us at any moment, the amount of stress that we experience is just way too much. One of the things that you can do is to daydream by gazing out the window. You might need to find that window first depending on where you work. Your body will automatically relax and as an added bonus, daydreaming can help boost your creativity. You can also tap on your body from the feet up. Use your knuckles to gently tap your way up your body. Focus your attention on the sensations. Tapping is very important when it comes to relieving stress and re-energizing. Lastly, find a pen and just doodle. I find the zen doodles to be very relaxing and it can also stimulate that creative side that you have hiding.