ISO - December 2009 e-Newsletter
Just in time for the endurance test that is finals week and end-of-semester exams,
ISO would like to remind you to take care of your health. When your classes and
responsibilities seem to keep accumulating, it’s important to remember that a healthy
you is a more efficient and successful you.
The obvious reminders to eat well, sleep well and exercise are always a good idea.
But you may also want to remember that spending hours and days sitting at a desk
or in front of a computer can put a strain on your body that could result in injury
or pain. To avoid the nuisance and hassle of a sore back or neck, make sure you
consider the importance of posture and stretching when spending hours at the library.
A recent survey found that nearly 72% of computer users don’t have correct posture
which can lead to back, neck, eye and carpal tunnel strain1. Add that
to those too-comfortable plush chairs that are in the library (which often invite
one to curl up in odd positions and stay that way for ages) and you may end up with
not only the emotional stress of studying for an exam, but the physical stress which
results from not keeping in mind the importance of posture.
Here are a few tips to keep you feeling and moving well, so that by the time finals
are over and it’s time to celebrate, you’ll be ready and willing to go out and enjoy
your winter break or even spend a few hours in an airplane seat for the long flight
home.
- 1) Try to take regular interval breaks. Get a cup of coffee, walk around the library
book stacks, stand up and stretch your arms behind your back, whatever keeps you
from sitting in the same position for hours at a time.
- 2) Sit up straight! …and keep your feet flat on the ground while you’re sitting
at your desk. Arms should be parallel to the keyboard and mouse that you’re using.2
- 3) Blink. Keep blinking; it will keep your eyes moist and reduce strain and possible
headaches. Don’t work in a dark room with a bright computer monitor and remember
to take breaks. You don’t need an excuse to take a walk outside if all you’ve been
thinking about for the previous few hours was economics or Aristotle.
Most importantly, enjoy yourself and remember that finals week is exactly that,
just a week of your time. Prepare, but don’t stress yourself and your body worrying
over tests and essay questions
ISO wishes you a happy and healthy end-of-semester and an enjoyable holiday season with friends and family!
- http://www.safecomputingtips.com/blog/healthy-computing/common-posture-mistakes-computer-users-make/
- http://www.safecomputingtips.com/blog/healthy-computing/what-is-the-perfect-posture-that-avoids-posture-related-problems/