Getting used to the new normal.
Since the pandemic began, a lot of us have had to make a lot of adjustments in our daily lives.
One major adjustment, for some of us, is working from home (maybe even while minding kids).Though for some, this is definitely a welcome change.
However, due to the circumstances that allowed this to happen, our houses/home offices may not be as ergonomically designed as our office space at work, thus causing some unwanted aches and pains. There are some changes that we can do or habits we can get into that will help.
Now I do understand, that working from home is not as easy as it traditionally was, as kids may be at home and causing some/a lot of distractions, but sometimes seeing some advice in front of you, will make you think of more about your work environment.
Changes for your Work Space
When seated, have your feet flat on the ground (even if you need to put something under your feet)
Rest your back against a chair
Try keep elbows at a 90 degree angle when working and try keep the wrists relatively straight while typing or using the mouse
Keep the screen arm length from you (this may seem close but if its further, you will find yourself leaning forward after a while as you cannot see the screen)
Habits for Daily Working Life
Try not to have your chin leaning too far forward. Try keep it in line with your shoulders
Try not to stay in the same position for too long
Take a break every 1-2 hours, to just stand up and move around
Remember to try take your lunch break (when working from home, as we don’t have colleagues to socialise with during lunch, many people work through lunch). This gives the body a chance to move
If you would like to hear more about avoiding aches and pains when working from home, or if you have any queries, please call Lorraine on 087 2101 281