Fight Fatigue with Ergonomics
How to Use Ergonomics to Give You Energy
Having the proper office ergonomics can help you and your coworkers in a variety of ways, one of which is to increase energy levels. One way that you can avoid the afternoon lag is by using your energy more efficiently throughout the day. Here are some things you can try.
Adjust Your Chair Properly
Starting with a properly adjusted ergonomic chair is a great way to maintain good posture, which will in turn help you stay energized and focused all day. When properly adjusted, your feet should plant firmly on the ground and you should have ample support for lumbar (lower) spine. Adjust your arm rests so they are low enough to allow free arm movement while you are using your mouse and keyboard. Making these simple adjustments in how you sit will make a substantial difference in your energy level.
Drink Enough Water
Chances are, you are not drinking enough water throughout the day. One good guideline for water intake is to consume half of your body weight in ounces. Also, if you think you’re feeling hungry—drink! You might actually be dehydrated. Another bonus to staying hydrated is that drinking enough water is linked to maintaining a healthy weight. Adding more water consumption to your day is a simple way to boost your energy and improve the ergonomics of your work environment.
Use an Ergonomic Keyboard
If you are one of the majority of us who is typing on a keyboard for an extended period of time throughout the day, you may have already experienced pain and discomfort in your hands and wrists. If you are experiencing these symptoms, or have already been diagnosed with carpal tunnel, an ergonomic split keyboard could help to relieve some of your symptoms. These keyboards are designed to fit the natural resting position of the wrists and hands while typing. Most of them are split in the middle so you can move them to match with how your wrists and hands rest naturally. This position will reduce pain in your wrists and help you work more efficiently.
Use Sound to Avoid Distraction
Getting distracted at work is so easy, and happens to all of us. There could be that chatty coworker who always interrupts your workflow at the worse time, or maybe you don’t like the music selection being played in your office. When this happens, you are actually using extra energy to block out the distractions and stay on task. Turning on some white noise, either in your office with the door closed, or at your desk with headphones, can help drown out the distraction and help you stay focused.
Eat for Energy
Maintaining an ergonomic work place should include a focus on proper health and nutrition for all employees. Ideally your place of work would bring in a nutritionist to make recommendations on what foods to eat and what foods to avoid to help you stay energized. Try learning about natural supplements, chemical-free products, and what daily practices you can implement to live a toxin-free life, lower stress, and balance the body.
