9. The mattress

A mattress that is too hard or too soft can precipitate or exacerbate mechanical back problems. If it’s too soft it doesn’t offer sufficient support, and if it’s too hard it doesn’t allow for the spinal contours resulting in stiffness and very achy joints. Ideal mattresses tend to be the ‘pocket spring’ type that have the ‘pillow top’ sewn on.

These days there are also ‘dual’ mattresses with one side allowing for a heavier weight than the other, which would certainly suit some couples!!

So, if you are waking in the morning feeling achy and stiff it may be a good idea to consider replacing your mattress.

Only one more tip to go before all 10 have been posted. Remember.. 1st 10 people to email me with a list of all ten tips will receive a free copy of my ‘Simply Stretching’ DVD and my ‘Staying Healthy Simply’ CD.

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