Take care of your body at work

We all know that it’s important to pay attention to our posture at work, but it’s easy to end up hunched over a cramped keyboard, typing away frantically.

Here’s a few simple tips to stay healthy. Yes, they’re basic, but even if you’ve heard them before, I’ll bet you’re not doing them all…

• Check your monitor is at the right height (it should be level with your eyes, so that you don’t have to tilt your neck up or down). Stack a few books beneath it if necessary.
• Sit properly in your chair while working, so that your back is supported. Don’t hunch forwards – yes, you may look like you’re fanatically devoted to your work, but you’ll be inviting back problems.
• Learn some keyboard short-cuts so that you don’t have to keep moving your hand back and forth from the mouse.
• Get a gel pad to rest your wrist on when typing and when using the mouse. Your boss should be willing to purchase one if asked. No manager wants workers on long-term sick leave with RSI.
• Take a break from your screen at least once an hour. Go and chat to a colleague whose input you need, instead of emailing them. Walk to the water cooler. Sort out that mound of papers on your desk.

And if you do find yourself getting a few twinges here and there, watch this video about office massage and relaxation (from The Guardian) for simple stretches and exercises you can do at your desk.

(Image above by Carsten Knoch)