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Health

Computer glare and radiation how to reduce it - Does it cause permanent eye stress?
By Lisa La Barre

Squinting, squinting, and more squinting while staring endlessly at the computer screen. Whether you're surfing or actually working your eyes can get pretty tired from staring at that computer screen.

Americans are working long hours -- most of which is in front of the computer. Though these long hours may be paying the bills and then some, they may be taking their toll----on their health.

Yes, it's called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS---no, not the pharmacy). The symptoms have become so common that it actually has its own name now. According to Ohio State University researchers, all that squinting, staring and "working" in front of the computer is not only uncomfortable, but can lead to dry eye (as well as a host of other health related symptoms).They found that squinting cut your blinks down to half and that their study further proved that barely squinting (5%) cut the blinks from a normal 15/minute to 7.5/minute and that if the study participants fully squinted (50%) is actually cut the blinking down to 4 blinks per minute!!! Talk about dry!

Why do we squint?

Squinting helps you to see more clearly when trying to view those sites that may seem somewhat out of focus. Squinting also helps to reduce the blaring glare of the computer screen, thereby alleviating that temporary annoyance. Unfortunately, squinting can be intentional, but also involuntary---you may not even realize you're doing it! Over time, you may find that you need ready glasses sooner than you think!

As if this weren't enough, there are a host of other symptoms that can lead to other problems, such as, headache, neck ache, double vision, blurred distance vision, eye coordination problems, trouble shifting focus from the computer screen to other objects beyond the computer, watery, burning and itchy eyes--oh my!

You may even start seeing things. Yes, these may include color fringes and after images when you look away from the computer screen.

The following are some great tips to keeping your eyes healthy from the constant glare of your computer screen.

Positioning:

Reduce discomfort by positioning your computer the right way! Your monitor should be right in front of you and about 18 to 24 inches from your eyes ----- or about an arm's length (approximately). The top of the screen should be at eye level so that you're essentially looking down on your computer. (This screen level technique is especially helpful for sore necks!) If you're not on a laptop, make sure your keyboard is directly in front of the monitor.

Take an Eye Break:

To reduce eye strain take periodic breaks and try to focus on very distant objects (which helps to relax the eye muscles) --- if a very distant object is not available ---- simply close your eyes for a few moments (even taking a few relaxation or yoga breaths would be great) and then open them to focus on a few objects at varying distances (for about 20 seconds each) around the room. (The key to this exercise is the distance and the FOCUS.) When returning to your screen try to THINK about blinking more often to alleviate any dry eye or any dry eye from developing.

If you do find yourself with a dry eye problem, buying some over the counter artificial tears in addition to the above techniques will help tremendously! For eyestrain ache, in addition to the above techniques, try rubbing your palms together and cupping your eyes with your palms, you'll be surprised how much it helps.

It's all About the Lighting:

To minimize glare try positioning your light source at an angle to the monitor. Another thing you may want to add is to dim your computer to meet the approximate lighting of your surroundings ---- unless it's dark ---then make sure to turn on a light (at a right angle to the computer) and then dim your screen to meet the current surrounding light.

Additionally, a Cornell University study utilizing glare filters showed an 80% positive rating from participants and their findings included substantial visual health improvement!

Skin Body Shoppe
By Rita Cook

Sometimes you just need to relax! That's when finding the perfect spa can turn a bad day good within minutes. One top valley spa that comes to mind for a relaxing way to de-stress is Skin Body Shoppe in Studio City. Skin Body Shoppe offers specifics treatments while also creating a soothing atmosphere for the mind and soul. While not just the run-of-the-mill spa and you can hear customers coming in the front door, during your treatment, the music and lighting will take you away nonetheless.

The Skin Body Shoppe sits in a storefront in Studio City, but once inside the doors it's all about finding your quiet moment. A facial might be in order here to start the pampering so go for the Le Grand ClassiQue or the organic uplifting facial. The Le Grande ClassiQue is a deep pore cleansing and restorative facial that will give your face a rosy glow. The organic facial is good for dehydrated skin or mature skin that needs a lift. Otherwise, there is also micro-dermabrasion or a glycolic and lactic peel.

Resident facial expert Sabrina is always on hand as well to give you advice on what you need. In fact, Sabrina will customize a facial just for you depending on skin type and the many other facets that make your face unique. Want even more relaxation, opt for an added shoulder, neck or facial massage.

However, facials are just one of the specialties at Skin Body Shoppe and you might also consider a massage, makeover, airbrush tanning, photo rejuvenation or body contouring. With body contouring you can say a big "no" to cellulite and mean it, starting with just about six treatments overall.

A massage or body scrub might be an excellent lunchtime treat too. Options include body wraps that not only help eliminate toxins from your body, but also improve circulation, reduce cellulite and tone body contour. Go for the slimming full body wrap or the detox full body wrap. The body shine comes with extra treatments and will restore your body to a happier state while also opening all your senses. You can pair the body scrub with an airbrush, airbrush/ hydrating mask or hydrating mask body shine treatment.

Need a tan? An airbrush tanning session could change your mood and your mind for the day. The airbrush tanning will enhance your skin with a beautiful golden color and you will be airbrushed by one of the shops professional practitioners. Forget about spending hours of time in the sun and go with the trendy way to achieve a warm glow - sun damage not included.

The photo rejuvenation is a treatment applied directly to the skin improving overall appearance and targeting unwanted pigmentation. For collagen growth the photo rejuvenation is perfect while also producing oxygen to get rid of any impurities on the skin.

The "get rid of cellulite" treatment called Endermologie is one of the most effective ways to reduce cellulite on your body. The process breaks down and dilutes cellulite into the lymphatic system where it can be detoxified. Of course, the Electronic Muscle Stimulation (E.M.S) is another great way to cheat your body into shape. It's great for removal of lymph and swelling in all parts of the body and the added plus is that is also helps with muscle toning.

Need a makeup overhaul? Have your makeup done and ask for pointers during your makeover. Even if you just want a new look, Skin Body Shoppe is your one-stop shop for relaxing.

Skin Body Shoppe also offers the standard waxing treatments done several different ways, but the IPL Chromolite is a good option, not abrasive at all.

Indeed, the folks at Skin Body Shoppe know their stuff so ask the esthetician anything as you will find her and the entire staff quite knowledgeable. That said, you will certainly find what you are looking for whether you want to get ready for a big night or just want to relax and take it easy for a few hours.

Get a gift for a friend, give yourself a gift for the day, but take the time to spa and remember that the best gift is taking the time to enjoy the simple moments.

Skin Body Shoppe

818-760-2200

skinbodyshoppespa.com