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Going Virtual Can Be a Pain: 5 Tools for Healthier Remote Working

Published: Aug 27, 2020

 Law       Remote Work       Workplace Issues       
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Early in March, when isolation was first announced, we were all secretly excited at the idea of wearing pajamas while working in our beds. But somewhere around the Fourth of July, our bodies started hurting from working on our couches, and our eyes became strained from never unplugging. It turns out that virtual life is not the blissful pajama-wearing life we thought it would be.

Since it looks like classes and jobs will remain virtual for a while longer, here are some tools to help save yourself from more aches and pains.

1. Desk Alternatives

If you are working from your couch or bed, consider getting a lap desk to ease your neck tension. You can find a lap desk at any price and in various styles. If you plan on working from your couch or bed for the unforeseeable future, it may be worth buying a portable desk instead, so you will have extra space to work.

Another favorite alternative to a traditional desk is a standing desk. According to research, sitting with poor posture can lead to misalignment of the spine and knees, causing poor circulation, fatigue, headaches, and back pain. Not only do those who use standing desks tend to be 50% more productive, but they also see an increase in energy. Standing all day is not recommended, but periodically standing will help eradicate most problems associated with sitting for extended intervals.

If you do not want to spend money, you can create a makeshift standing desk! A Vault Intern hack is to use a stack of textbooks or random boxes.

2. Blue Light Glasses

Do your eyes hurt? Do you have a headache that will not go away? Try blue light filtering glasses! The blue light radiating from your electronic devices may be causing your eyes to strain. Glasses will filter out the blue light and will allow your eyes to relax. The great news is that blue light glasses are not expensive at all! Try this top-rated pair for less than $20.

3. Laptop Stand

Even though you may be using your laptop on a hard surface, you should purchase a stand to raise your computer. By lifting your computer to eye level, you will be preventing strain on your neck and back. 

4. Lumbar Support Pillow

If your back has been in pain, then a lumbar support pillow is your answer. The pillow is designed to provide maximum support to the spine and will alleviate pressure. Adding the pillow will provide your back with much-needed support to maintain good posture, proper circulation, and prevents muscle fatigue.

5. Workout Classes

If you find yourself sitting for the majority of the day, try to take 30 minutes to an hour of your day exercising. Not only is a break beneficial for you mentally, but it will also help combat some of the pain. Find something that works for you and stick with it. Most businesses now stream their classes, allowing you to work out from the comfort of your own home. If you are in the mood to change things up, YouTube has thousands of free workout videos. Also, heading to a local park or even walking through your neighborhood is free and may be just what you need to get your body moving after a long day of studying or working.

Here is to alleviating the pain and tension! Catch up with us on social media, and let us know what you are doing to combat the strain that comes with telecommuting.

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