Working at home has its benefits in that it can be more comfortable. But it’s also important to remember that after a prolonged period of time, if you work on your laptop, your muscles can begin to strain. Therefore, it’s important to ensure you put the right equipment in place to help support your muscles in the long term. Here are some suggestions on how to make your home office ergonomic.
Laptop Stand For Your Home Office
Working on your laptop without a stand causes you to strain your neck, as you’re looking down below eye level. But, having a laptop stand helps alleviate this strain by lifting your laptop closer to your eye level.
This helps the muscles over time and helps maintain good posture and avoid back issues such as hunchback.
I use this glasses-designed laptop stand and love the trendy vibe it brings. It’s also light and portable to carry anywhere.
Ergonomic Back Pillow
Another tool that helps with good posture are ergonomic pillows. A portable ergonomic pillow is particularly useful as you can use it on different chairs, or even if you’re working on the floor and have it behind your back supported by the wall.
It means you can create an ergonomic workspace wherever you are- even if that’s outside of your home.
Ergonomic Chair For Your Home Office
An ergonomic chair is a key staple for any office. They are made to support both your upper torso; from your neck, head, back, and the upper half of your legs. They are positioned in a way to support a good posture which you will be thankful for in the long term.
I love the breathable mesh material on this ergonomic chair that I have as it is comfortable to use in any season.
Ergonomic Mouse
The mouse on a laptop is positioned directly in front of you. This is an unnatural position for your hands to be in since they are naturally parallel to the side of you. After a long period of time, this can cause strain on your hand muscles.
An ergonomic mouse is designed for you to freely navigate in positions that help your muscles. They are also designed to make it easier for you to click easily, alleviating stress on your delicate muscles.
Ergonomic Keyboard For Your Home Office
Similar to the location of a laptop mouse pad, the keyboard on laptops is also positioned directly in front of you, causing more strain on your arms.
An ergonomic keyboard is crafted in a way that suits your left and right hands to type comfortably to support your muscles.
Lamp
Light is a key part of helping you ensure you aren’t stressing your eyes too much. If you tend to work late in the evening, or in the winter when it gets darker earlier, lamps are a great way to give you extra light. This helps your vision.
This lamp allows you to adjust the light into a position that is best for you.
Standing Desk
Working whilst standing up can be a good way to exercise your leg muscles. Sitting down all the time means your legs are not working as much as they could. Getting a standing desk and working standing on it can be a good way to diversify your working methods.
If you do get a standing desk, ensure you get a laptop stand with it. This will help ensure you’re not straining your neck too much.
I hope these tips help you to build an ergonomic home office that helps you now, as well as long term.
If you are a Beginner Freelancer looking for help on your journey, check out the Beginner Freelancer E-course.
