Have a Healthier Workspace
By Sara Butler
You spend a lot of time at work, maybe more than you want to! Since you spend so much time at your desk, you should make it a priority to create a space that promotes your health. Here are a few simple ways you can make your workspace a little healthier!
Keep the Set Up Simple
You have to set up your computer in a way that will put less stress and strain on your body. This can easily be done by:
- Putting your monitor right in front of you.
- Adjusting the height of the screen so it’s just below eye level.
- Setting the screen up about arm’s length away.
It’s OK to tweak it as you work to find a comfortable position, just go slowly by not adjusting it more than one inch per day. The most important thing to remember is you shouldn’t be looking up or down at your screen – it should be comfortable for you to simply look straight ahead.
When it comes to the other objects on your desk you should make sure it’s all within easy reaching distance. The tools you use the most, such as your mouse or phone, need to be no more than arm’s distance away. This can help to conserve energy and keep your muscles from working too hard.
Get a Good Chair
If you can find a good chair that supports a good posture, then it will help you be comfortable during the day and it will help you to actually feel more energized. The less work your muscles have to do to support you appropriately, the less fatigued you’ll feel as the day goes on. A good chair can help you develop good postural habits, so look for one that provides adequate support to your hips and back.
Get a Grip
If you spend a lot of time working with your hands then you need to make sure you’re kind to them when you’re not at work. If you experience discomfort, that is your body letting you know that you need to give it a rest.
You can make things easier on your hands by taking the force off of the joints with good tools. Use tools with a large handle to grip. If you use pens, make sure you buy the kinds that have grips.
When it comes to your wrist, make sure you’re not elevating your keyboard. That can overextend your wrists, putting pressure on them as you type – and that can eventually lead to some major problems (hello carpal tunnel syndrome!).