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Healthy Computing Habits

You can harm your health through poor computing habits. Many people spend too many long hours in the glow of a computer screen that could come close to being an online addiction. In doing so, they develop poor posture, strain eyesight, harm muscles, become sedentary, and develop other bad habits. Sitting for long periods is not restful and can actually cause fatigue. So use common sense and try these tips to protect yourself:

  • Watch your posture. When seated at a computer, make sure to hold your spine, neck, arms and legs in comfortable positions that don’t strain muscles, and never slouch. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration describes posture goals and ergonomic considerations when setting up workstations.

  • When choosing a desk or table and chair for your computing environment, consider ergonomic furniture, which is designed to take human anatomy in account and provide the healthiest and most comfortable arrangement.

  • Relax your muscles as much as possible as you type and shake out your hands and arms occasionally. A squeeze toy or stress reliever can also help to work out typing cramps in your hands and wrists.

  • Refocus your vision away from the screen onto distant objects every few minutes to avoid eyestrain and give the small muscles around your eyes a break. Make sure you have adequate lighting to see what you are doing, and reduce glare on your computer screen.

  • Take a break every hour or so by standing up and stretching, or at least changing position for a few minutes. Periodically take a few deep breaths. Many deep relaxation therapies and practices advocate the restful benefits of deep breathing, which re-oxygenates your system.

  • If you find yourself getting fatigued even after following these guidelines, it can only mean that you've been at it too long. Leave the computer for a while. Walk your dog! Play ball! Do yoga! Exercise is a great remedy for any of these computer-related health complaints.

More Information. OSHA also provides information on other computer hazards, including high voltage electricity, noise, and the possible danger of exposure to extreme low frequency fields or higher frequency radiation fields.



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Quick Tips

Watch your posture

Take frequent breaks

Sit directly in front of your computer

Frequently refocus your eyes onto a distant object

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