As more of the country begins the working day from the sofa or kitchen table, your posture could be suffering in the process.
While working in your pajamas is a benefit to those who aren’t get-up-and-go morning people, sitting for long intervals in one position may place strain on your muscles.
Poor posture can aggravate your health, causing headaches, back pain, and various other ailments. By practicing good habits, you’ll avoid unnecessary aches and pains and return to the office when isolation
ends happier and healthier. As for now, enjoy your time at home, and practice these tips, which can
make a big difference.
Be Mindful of Your Posture
● It’s easy to slouch after sitting or standing in one position for an extended time. Set a timer that reminds you to adjust your position.
● Avoid resting your chin on your chest to look down at your computer. It’s imperative to move your eyes to the screen and avoid tilting your head. Your shoulders will relax and increase your comfort.
● Use a phone headset for speaking to people. It allows you to use both hands for typing and also avoids straining your neck. Avoid using your shoulder to hold your phone against your ear at all costs.
Keep Moving
● No matter how comfortable you are, it is best not to stay in one position for more than an hour. Stand up and walk around frequently. Taking short breaks will also remind you to focus on your posture when you return.
● Since you are in a new position from the one you use at work, your muscles may be tensing up. Use each break to stretch your muscles. As the muscles relax with the stretching, you’ll be able to ease back into your work position, feeling refreshed.
Make Your Workspace Body Friendly
● If you are working from bed, place cushions under your knees, so your laptop allows your arms to rest at a 90-degree angle. Put pillows behind the small of your back and look down with your eyes.
● While on the sofa, place books under your feet to bring the laptop to a higher position and put cushions behind you to support your back.
● Alternate between standing and sitting during your workday. Stand at the kitchen counter. Place
books under your laptop and use your eyes rather than tilting your head to look at the screen.
● While at your desk or dining room table, bring the screen to eye level, and attach a document
holder to the monitor to view papers. Your feet should be flat on the ground or a footrest.
Be Mindful
● If you don’t feel comfortable, your body is speaking to you, and you should heed its call to avoid future issues. Keep altering your position until you no longer feel uncomfortable.
● Stay hydrated. Drinking water nourishes the body and keeps your joints lubricated. It will also keep you moving as you go to refill the bottle or break for the bathroom.
These days are forcing us to slow down. The commute to work is now ten feet from the coffee maker.
Enjoy the change of pace but keep your body healthy and strong.
Following our tips will help your body adjust to all the change, and more importantly, thrive in your new
workspace environment. Landa Spine & Orthopedic Center is here to answer any questions and provide
support. Stay safe.