Weary Users Want Healthy Computing

We’ve gone over this before at Laptopical, folks. One of the downsides to using a mobile computer – and maybe the only downside – is the risk of bad ergonomics. That is, compute with your laptop’s monitor too low, and you may crane your neck to see-and ultimately give yourself a neck ache. Sitting in a seat that’s at the wrong height could spell back pain, typing at a keyboard too high…..you get the point. But now get the cure. We’ve discovered a web site, that can put you on the path to healthy computing, and teach you how to overcome the perils of lopsided laptop.

One of the main feature of Healthy Computing is a list of stretches that you can do before using your laptop. Don’t roll your eyes at the thought. Yes, usually you only stretch before working out at the gym or going for a jog. For most of you, then, you haven’t stretched since high school.

Cruel kidding aside, stretching can really help you before laptop use. Sitting at a desk, cradling the phone on your neck, whacking away at the keyboard all day at the office – these repetitive motions can cause tension in your muscles and your joints, and over time can actually build up until those tissues are damaged. Ever hear of carpal tunnel?

Stretching before a hard day at the computer can relax those muscles, and even strengthen them, to help you face the long, repetitive day ahead. Plus, say the health gurus at Healthy Computing, stretching gets the old blood flowing, so you won’t feel old and tired. Enough explanation, let’s get into some stretching! (By the way, if you happen to be in physical pain, have a cold or virus, consult with your doc before doing any stretches.)

Healthy Computing stretches are broken down by body part. So for instance, for your hands and wrists, they have a stretch where you: (1) place your hands in front of you, palm to palm; (2) keep your palms together and your elbows up and even, while you move your hands downward until you feel a stretch; and (3) hold for 5 to 8 seconds.

Or there’re even stretches for your eyes, like the one called palming. This involves: (1) covering your closed eyes with your hands with fingers covering your forehead and your palms covering, but not touching, your eyelids; (2) breathing deeply and not visualizing your laptop screen in the dark; and (3) keeping it up for 20 seconds.

Wow, it’s refreshing just to talk about these stretches. Imagine what you’ll feel like if you actually do them.

More about – Healthy computing

Related article:

- Ergonomic Laptop Stand

By Matthew Brodsky

Friday, April 14, 2006