Although blogging seems relatively harmless and it's certainly fun to do, there seem to be some serious health risks associated with it. Not too long ago, I discovered an article about two different bloggers who had passed away from heart attacks. While the core reason for the heart attacks were unknown - the writer pointed out the similar lifestyles and high stress conditions of the bloggers.

A frightening picture was painted about the health risks of blogging! As a freelance writer and co-owner of a unique content company - I am on the computer for very long hours, often with few breaks. I also have many friends, partners and associates that lead similar lifestyles and put in much the same hours as I do.

If you are an internet writer or blogger - you will probably agree that not only is this sort of profession very lonely at times, but it's also quite stressful. Here are 5 tips to help you stay healthy while blogging, writing or working on the computer.

Tip #1 - Recess

One of the most important things I've learned is that taking just a few minutes away from the computer can really help alleviate some of the stress. Whether it's a coffee break or stepping outside to stretch and breathe (Yes, bloggers - that's sunshine!) it can really help keep you healthy.

Although working on the computer is not physically tiring (unless you count the pain in your butt, neck and back) it is very mentally demanding. Taking a few seconds to stretch and move around may really help reduce the health risks associated with blogging or writing for long periods of time.

Tip #2 - Reducing Stress

Whether you're rushing around to be the first blog to deliver the latest news or you're sending sparks from the keyboard to meet your deadlines - stress is a large part of working on the internet. Stress is also a major enemy to our bodies and minds.

From higher risks of heart attacks, strokes and weight gain to feeling sluggish and even insomina - stress causes all sorts of nasty problems. Do whatever you can to reduce the stress when it comes to blogging on writing. Perhaps giving yourself longer to complete tasks or recruiting help for your blogs would be a good idea.

Learn some deep breathing techniques and apply them when you feel overwhelmed at your desk. No matter what it takes - get rid of some of that stress! This will definitely help reduce the health risks associated with blogging, writing or any other internet job you may have.

Tip #3 - Eat Your Meals in the Kitchen

I am very guilty when it comes to sneaking a quick bite in front of the computer. There are many times when I am rushing to finish something and I will grab anything I can find and rush back to the computer.

Whether it's a candy bar or something that resembles food but has been microwaved to death - or a skipped meal, I've been there and done that. Good eating habits do not include fifteen cups of coffee and a granola bar. Refuse to eat at the computer.

Take just ten minutes and fix yourself something truly edible - something which fits into a real food group! Developing good eating habits and refusing to cave will help reduce serious health risks and will keep you blogging for a longer time!

Tip #4 - Take a Day Off

While this would most likely fall under the 'no stress' tip - it deserves its own section. Sometimes I don't take entire minutes to myself within the course of a day, let alone a day off. People with 'normal' jobs have even asked me what I do on the computer for 15 or 16 hours a day. Don't try to explain it to them because they will never get it!

Giving yourself time to rest and recharge your batteries will really help you feel better, get a fresh start when you get back and reduce your stress. It will also give you time to connect with your family and the people you love. (Don't worry. It shouldn't be too hard to get your children and spouse to remember who you are!)

Tip #5 - Develop Internet Friendships

This is something I would have never thought of 6 months ago. We, the faceless people of the internet, usually lead very lonely lives. In our little virtual worlds, we spend all day writing, marketing, search engine optimizing, researching, posting, commenting, checking stats and a gazillion other things. If we live in the internet, we might as well make some friends.

Having developed some strong working relationships with my partners - we are in contact nearly every single day. Not only do we talk about our writing projects, our marketing, search engine optimizing and everything else - we also joke around, offer support, laugh together and just be silly sometimes. This has been an absolute gift to me. Just to connect with others who understand what it's like is absolutely priceless.

Using these tips, you can really reduce the health risks of blogging and other internet jobs. Keeping yourself healthy is very important - to yourself, your readers and your family.