Whether you’re a gamer or a professional working from home, you’re likely spending long hours each day in front of a screen. Prolonged periods of being sedentary can be a considerable health risk, one that is best mitigated by a reduction in screentime. However, for many, this is an impossibility. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks associated with high screen time. Here are four actions you can take right now.
Wear Computer Glasses
To protect your eyes from the glaring, bright light of your screen, invest in a good pair of glasses. If you already use reading glasses, consider replacing them with reflective coating lenses. Most eyeglasses companies, especially those that offer the biggest selection, provide blue light-filtering lenses that block the blue light that emanates from electronics. Although there is some debate about whether blue light is truly as harmful as it is promoted to be, some people swear that blocking it has made a big difference to their energy levels, eye dryness, and ability to sleep at night. It may be worth trying if it’s right for you – especially if you can find a good deal!
These lenses also come with and without a prescription, so even if you’re blessed with 20/20 vision, these are still an option for you.
Follow The 20-20-20 Rule
Eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome (CVS) can occur after just two consecutive hours of screen time. While there is some debate about the effects of blue light, most health experts and researchers agree that the 20-20-20 rule is effective for reducing eye strain. To follow this rule, every 20 minutes, take a break to look about 20 feet into the distance for about 20 seconds.
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the task you’re completing, so set reminders for yourself every twenty minutes. Want to do even better? Get up and do a lap around the room or make a cup of tea during your break.
Buy An Ergonomic Chair
Ergonomic chairs allow you to adjust the seat in numerous ways to provide the maximum level of support for your unique body composition. As a key component of your computer setup, an ergonomic chair will promote good posture and prevent neck and back stiffness by keeping your spine in proper alignment.
While these types of chairs can be more expensive, it’s worth the investment to protect your long-term health.
Do Carpal Tunnel Stretches
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a debilitating condition that avid computer users are at a high risk of developing. Once it develops, surgery is often the only solution. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to help prevent CTS from developing. Simply making sure you’re working in a warm space and keeping your hands relaxed will make a considerable difference. You should also take breaks – perhaps while following the 20-20-20 rule – to perform exercises and stretches for CTS.
Though you may not feel the adverse symptoms of regular screentime now, it’s in your best interest to take steps to prevent them from occurring in the future. By making these four changes, you can be sure that you can continue gaming and be productive at work for years to come.
