21/08/2020
Chances are, that you are reading this from your newly created home office. Whilst working from home can provide some sort of liberty to your life, whether it be working in your pyjamas or being able to do that extra load of washing. It also presents a potential issue whereby you become more susceptible to aches and pains, headaches and other discomforts because you are spending more time in a makeshift place in your home as opposed to a tailormade set up at work.
For starters, it’s best to choose a flat surface to be the foundation for your mouse and keyboard. You require adequate space underneath the table of your choice so that you are not cramped and have the ability to stretch out. Ideally, you would like to be set up with your knees at a similar height to your hips or slightly lower and that there is a gap approximately 2-3 fingers wide between the back of your knees and the front of your chair.
Does your chair not have lumbar support? No problem! Let’s improvise! Now that you are situated at home you have access to towels and pillows freely. No, I’m not talking about going to have a quick nap… I’m referring to going to grab one and bring it back to your newly made work chair. Place it behind your lower back so that you can feel that you are in a position where your shoulders are relaxed, your back is straight, the angle between your hips and knees is appropriate and your feet are placed firmly on the floor.
Your screen should be approximately arm’s distance away. Ideally, you will have a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to maximise your work ergonomics instead of reaching forward to your laptop and exhibiting a hunched posture. Next, make sure that the top of the screen is in line with your eye level to avoid straining. Now, this may require boosting up your laptop or monitor. Feel free to use books, shoe boxes or books.
