There are many benefits that you can expect to enjoy when working from the comfort of your own home. You are able to set flexible working hours, you will no longer be concerned about travelling long distances and countless office-related expenses can be dramatically reduced (if not eliminated altogether). However, we also need to keep in mind that a handful of bad habits can lead to health issues over time. This is particularly the case when referring to fatigue that is often induced by remaining in front of a computer for hours on end. Let’s take a look at some of the ways in which you can limit these effects.
Pay Attention to Body Mechanics
Anyone who has dealt with neck or back problems in the past is already aware that body mechanics play an important role. Unfortunately, remaining seated in an incorrect position can often exacerbate such issues. This is why individuals who work within office environments will experience muscular pains and cramps on occasion. Make it a point to invest in an ergonomic chair that is able to adequately support your lower back. It is also a good idea to search for an adjustable model that can be raised and lowered in relation to the height of your desk. Here are some other suggestions:
- Avoid hunching your shoulders when viewing a computer screen.
- Relax your forearms and wrists when typing.
- Invest in a wireless mouse to enjoy greater mobility.
Additionally, take a ten-minute break every hour. This enables you to stand up and walk around; helping to increase blood flow to the extremities.
Reduce Eye Strain
It is a well-known fact that staring at a computer screen or a tablet for hours at a time can lead to issues associated with the eyes such as muscular pain and headaches. This is why it is prudent to invest in a pair of bespoke computer glasses such as those offered by Barner. These glasses have the capability of blocking out a type of light known as “blue light” that is emitted from such screens. As a result, you will be much less likely to suffer from headaches and similar issues.
Let us also point out that much like any other muscle in your body, the eyes will need to take a rest on occasion. Try not to squint when reading text and if necessary, use the zoom feature on a computer or tablet in order to increase the font size if you still have difficulty. Try to avoid watching too many flash presentations and above all, see a doctor if you suspect that you might need a pair of prescription glasses.
Computer-based work can be extremely rewarding and yet, there are still a handful of health issues to address if you hope to avoid any long-term problems. As a growing percentage of the workforce is now beginning to work from home, it only makes sense that the suggestions mentioned above should be taken into account if you hope to enjoy future success.