• Don’t try to dig the whole garden today – or you won’t be able to prune tomorrow. Instead, dig a bit, prune a bit.

• Avoid doing your most demanding exercise or work during the first two hours of your day.

• Avoid being in one position (at the computer, for instance) for too long. If you’re likely to become engrossed, set a kitchen timer, to go off every 20 minutes or so.

• Sit up straight, with your bottom pushed into the back of the chair.

• If you’re using a computer, try placing a small hand mirror on the desk, just below the screen. Every time you slump, you’ll look yourself in the face.

• In the car, adjust your posture and/or the car seat for maximum comfort. Then, having set the mirror, LEAVE IT ALONE.

• If you have a back pain, don’t just stay in bed.

• NEVER IGNORE PAIN! It is a warning that all sensible people should heed.