Are you a power blogger? Do you spend hours in in front of your computer pounding out the next great post, connecting online and promoting your blog every which way you can? Do you eat your meals in front of the computer while engaged in blogging activities? If you answered yes to any of these questions - I have only one thing to say to you: STOP IT! You are not blogging responsibly, which may mean you're putting your health and even your relationships, at risk. How do I know this? Because I've been guilty of these sins against myself and have decided to start blogging more responsibly. You are indeed the power behind your blog, but don't become a slave to it. There are things you can do that will ensure that your blogging is not detrimental to your health and well-being - remember, balance in all things.

I've put together a sensible plan for the avid blogger to help ensure that they don't tax themselves or stress their relationships with the people they care about. These things are especially important if you blog full-time, but many of the ideas are equally valid for part-time bloggers as well.

Follow up:

Make sure you are using a good computer chair and are sitting correctly. Good posture and proper positioning will go a long way to preventing aches, pains, stiffness and serious chronic conditions, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Here are some good links for setting up your work station for maximum health and safety:

How to Sit at a Computer
How to Set Up an Ergonomically Correct Workstation

If you start blogging first thing in the morning, eat a good breakfast before you go to work, your body, your brain, and blog will thank you.

Take regular breaks at least one every 2 hours, they should be at least 15 minutes in length. It's a good time to eat a healthy snack to keep up your energy and do some stretches to relieve your cramped body. Moving around will get your blood circulating, how can you think if your brain isn't getting the kind of blood flow it needs to function?

Stay hydrated, always have water at hand when you are working. Your body needs the moisture for all of it's functions. Not enough water can cause multiple problems including headaches. Who wants to produce brilliant blog content when their head is pounding? Not me, not you either.

Limit your caffeine intake to the equivalent of 3 average size cups of coffee per day. Any more than that will do more harm than good. You might want to consider replacing some or all of your caffeinated beverages with green tea for it's wonderfully high anti-oxidant content.

Take at least a half hour for lunch. Don't eat in front of the computer while you work. Many studies have shown that digestion is more effective when you sit down and pay attention to your meal. Take time to chew properly and savor your food. You will feel more satisfied and will be less likely to over-eat. I don't really have to tell you to make healthy menu choices do I? Of course not you know how to eat a balanced diet, at least I hope so.

Learn to do some office stretches while sitting in your chair working. If you stay loose, limber and comfortable you will be able to work more effectively and feel less fatigued at the end of the day. Here are some links to get you started:

How to Exercise While Sitting at Your Computer (Includes a video.)
How to Exercise You Eyes

Some days you will probably find yourself working overtime on your blog. Try to keep these instances to a minimum. If you must engage in marathon blogging,  don't forget to take at least one 15 minute break for every 2 hours of work and at least a half-hour for mealtimes.

Above all, take time everyday to have quality interactions with the people you care about. After all what kind of life is it without our family and friends. Make sure to get regular exercise at least 3 times per week, more if you can swing it, taking a walk everyday is a good idea. A balanced lifestyle takes a little planning, but it is time well spent, when you consider it goes a long way to making life more productive and enjoyable.

I hope you strive to be a healthy and happy blogger.