Taking Regular Computer Rest Breaks
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Whether you use a personal computer for work or leisure, it is wise to be aware of the cumulative effects of sitting in front of your computer. I’m not talking about full blown computer related injuries like RSI or carpal tunnel, just general muscle stiffness that can accumulate when we hold our bodies in forced and unsupported positions for long periods of time.
Have you noticed sharpness in your shoulder blades, blurry vision, a burning sensation in your eyes, or aching wrists while using your computer? While you would be right to put these symptoms down to tiredness, they are something that can be prevented with regular breaks from your computer-based activities.
Unless you have a perfectly ergonomic desk set up it is difficult to maintain a correct posture while sitting at a desk. You may hunch your shoulders forwards or lean your elbows on the desk. At home many of us are guilty of sitting on the sofa with our laptops on our knees, or on a coffee table in front of us. It may not be possible for us to change these habits, or we may not want to, but it is surprising how taking five minutes away from your computer in every hour can help prevent the build up of general aches and pains that come from poor posture and lack of movement.
It is equally important for you to give your eyes a break from the computer screen. Desk ergonomics and even high-tech monitors cannot reduce the strain we put our eyes under when staring at an object for long periods. When you hold your muscles at a fixed position, fatigue builds up and the same is true for your eyes. Focusing on text or an image on the computer screen can also stop you from blinking regularly, which adds to the feeling of fatigue. Using the computer after work to perform simple tasks such as surfing the web or replying to emails will place extra strain on your already tired eyes. Simply looking away from the computer screen, and into the distance, for a few seconds will relax your eyes and reduce the irritation of sore and dry eyes.
As with any activity, taking frequent short breaks, before you feel the slightest sign of fatigue or pain, gives your body a much-needed chance to recover from the demands of your routines. Using a piece of software to remind you to take a quick break from your computer may seem unnatural at first. However, it soon becomes part of your computing routine and you will begin to feel the benefits of regular rest breaks.
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Hendrika Level 3 Commenter 13 months ago
What you are saying is so true. Most of us get so engrossed in what we are doing on the computer that we forget about taking a break.It is a great idea to have something to remind you to take a break. I find I only take a break by the time I'm exhausted!