A few weeks ago, I was standing in line for Dunkin Donuts (for what was surely a low-cal breakfast) at the Ft. Lauderdale Airport. While checking out the selection and hoping to not miss my boarding call (I *needed* some coffee), a woman in line turned to me and said the following:
"Don't all those bags hurt your shoulders?"
This being the South, it is of course perfectly acceptable to strike up such a conversation while waiting for a latte. But I was a little taken aback that someone noticed my dirty little secret: I carry far too much in bags draped on my person. That day I was sporting the following: Kate Spade work tote, pink laptop bag, black patent leather Coach purse, and camera bag.
The best part: these bags represent the scaled down version of what I carry when traveling for work. Yep, they are scaled down because I've been dealing with neck and back pain. And after doing the research on problems caused by heavy bags, I do know better.
My solutions: I try to streamline my bags, bringing only what is absolutely necessary. I'm leaving behind extra folders with printed directions, because my handy iphone leads the way most of the time now. I switch bags from one side to the other. I try to stay mindful of my posture and self-correct when it's out of whack. I go for massage twice a month, which eases the strain caused from bags and my not so great posture.
I know I'm not alone -- tons of women have the same issue. My question: how do you deal with hauling around all the stuff you need to while minimizing strain on your body? What are the tricks of the trade for women who are going from work to gym to home -- how do you do it without breaking your back carrying gear? Please share your tips (and favorite products) in the comments section below.
