Let’s start with this…what is ergonomics?
We all have heard the mention of ergonomics but I wanted to make sure I got it right so I looked it up. Meriam-Webster defines ergonomics as “an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely”. Interact? Let’s go a step further.
How do you interact with things in the workplace both efficiently and safely? I am glad you asked! You see, we all interact with office workspaces all day and may not notice that some of the way we do interact is not only inefficient but possibly dangerous to our well being. Do you ever go home with a stiff neck, a sore left arm, or a tightness in your legs? Do your eyes get sore after working in front of the computer? These are just a few symptoms of what could possibly be caused by poor ergonomics. Here is a tip list:
Don’t sit for long periods. Get up and move around and get the blood flowing again at least once an hour.
Sit up in your chair. (Now I am sounding a bit like my mom!) Poor posture can agitate muscles in your back leaving you achy and in a foul mood!
Keep your monitor at eye level. Want to save on a massage? Be nice to the neck!
Look for a mouse pad that has a wrist rest. And if they are gel filled its a great stress reliever!!!
Keep the lights on! A poorly lit room can leave you with bloodshot eyes – and its not even happy hour yet!
So let’s talk about staying active in the office.
Some experts are now saying that we can find ways to be a bit more mobile at the office to benefit our bodies and keep from being “office chair-potatoes”! Here are some suggested exercise tips you can do in your own office chair – check them out!
Take a moment to stretch. Stretching will help your muscles from tensing up. A few neck rolls and some lower back stretching and voila! Good as new!
Moving your legs in a circular motion increases the blood flow and as we all know, blood flow increases oxygen. More oxygen less drousy eyes during those afternoon meetings.
Stop staring at the screen – even now your’e doing it! Ha! Seriously, try this suggestion. Close your eyes for 15-20 seconds and breathe in and out. This helps your lubricate your eyes AND release tension.
Also, try looking up at the ceiling, down to the floor, then back and forth. But do it slowly or the motion sickness in you could cause you to fall out of your chair! Sorry but no lifeguard is on duty!
So there you have it. Some simple suggestions to interact safely and efficiently in the workplace. I hope this not only helps but makes you wonder what more can you do to improve your safety in the office. Look for more tips soon!