The New Year is a time for a new you and a new way of being in the world. As we try to get more in tune and stay centered with a new year coming, making our office more user-friendly is an important part of the transformational plan. Our office environment should be comfortable, given many of us spend so much time there. The ambiance of our workspace and our ability to stay focused and productive is affected by and not limited to the lighting, the position of items that get daily use like files and computer keyboards, artwork on the walls, your chair, someone screaming in the office next door…you can add to this list, I’m sure. There is so much that can contribute to a stressful day and just as many things you can do to neutralize the stressors.
.….everything starts with you…..
Danger Danger Danger Danger Transform Your Workspace
Tune in
Get body aware and you will better be able to address your discomfort before it turns chronic! Often people complain of shoulder pain on a particular side. Before long I notice they are reaching in an odd position for a file or phone, which just happens to affect the problem muscle. Bingo. Often it doesn’t take long to trace back the cause of tension in the body if you pay attention. Mid-back pain often indicates bad posture, lower back pain can stem from improper sleeping positions or to an overaggressive golf swing. The key is to tune into the things you do that activate your problem areas and then make the corresponding adjustments.
Lighten Up
Most people don’t understand how tight they hold their muscles, and how they tense up when they answer the phone or while doing general activities at work. Pay attention to your comfort level while at work. Breathe in deeply, let out a sigh, and be willing to let go of what does not require any intense emotion.
Organize
Wouldn’t you rather come back from the holiday vacation to a desk that is organized? Your workspace represents your mindset and the jury is still out about which creates which. File those papers, get rid of clutter and clear a path to thinking straight and being effective. Make the saying ‘everything in its place’ have meaning in your life.
Out with the Old
Still got files hanging around, papers that have outlived their usefulness? Recycle that debris out of your life.
What’s Your Position?
The arrangement of the space in your office and body can literally give you a pain in the neck, a pull in your back, a pinched nerve or other aches and annoyances. This often happens when files, computer keyboards or phones are located in places where you have to reach, twist or consistently move awkwardly to access them. Repetitive motion over time that is ergonomically incorrect is bound to have an impact.
Your Body!
You can have the most expensive therapeutic chair on the market, but too often the body that is supposed to be sitting erect and contoured against it is slouching over the desk. Sit up straight, lift from your abdominal muscles. It’s easier than most people think. By just adjusting your shoulders back you can achieve much better posture and recondition your muscles.
Phone
Check out the arrangement of your space, do you have to reach for the phone? This is a big ergonomic faux pas. Although stretching is good, incorrect stretching is not. Why not put your phone within an easy arm’s reach?
Computer Screen
Set your computer screen so your head is level with it, or you will start to slouch unconsciously to get a good view without even realizing it.
Keyboard & Mouse
Have you wondered why people place their keyboards and mouse underneath their desk on a separate unit that rolls out? It’s more than just a space-saver. It’s also an arm and wrist saver. A keyboard that is positioned too high leads to more tension in the hands and arms. Many people get a support piece or base for their keyboard and mouse to position their hands and wrists appropriately
for proper alignment.
Files
Are your files behind you so that you have to reach back to access them? Do you have to twist your body around to get the file and then cradle the phone to one ear as you look for the info you want? Over time, your muscles will retaliate. Put your files where you have easy access, there may be spaces under your desk or to the side that could be perfect for a small file cabinet. Examine your office for the best possible placement of the things you access and use most often. And then act on it. There’s no time like the present to make positive changes!
…………soothe your senses…………
Lighting
If you have your own office, bring in a floor lamp and a desk lamp, and cut those fluorescent lights off. Studies have shown that many people are sensitive to fluorescent light and may develop headaches and feel tired throughout the day because the lights are harsh on the senses.
Art
What you see affects your nervous system. The paintings or art in your office set a mood. Avoid bright reds or artwork that is too busy, as they will only add to the stress factor and overwhelm your senses. Some stress relievers are serene nature scenes, Ansel Adams photographs and soothing or somber colors.
Noisy Neighbors
If your work associate in the next space is a hothead, or just plain loud … don’t just grin and bear it, take action. Move your desk furthest away from the adjoining wall. Place a soothing Zen fountain close to you, which will cover some of the noise with the sound of bubbling, running water. Play some of your favorite music soft in the background or have it come from your computer. If the noise continues to bother you, use it as a tool to stay focused on what you are doing and not allow someone else to derail you. If it is just unbearable, move your office.
A little More Oxygen?
Nothing is more important than the air we breathe. It is our life-force, our prana, that we share with all living things. Plants are oxygen givers and provide a peaceful setting, find a couple of potted plants that work for your office. Air purifiers also help to circulate clean air into your work environment, try one that emits negative ions to enhance your mood. Remember, YOU are the center of the universe of your workspace. Don’t accept what is there and adjust yourself to fit to it. Make your office what you need for your health and comfort, and come back streamlined, ready for action, and better than ever for 2009!
Linda Carel is a wellness professional who has worked extensively in offices since 1990. Her company Stressbusters
LA can come to your office and help you feel great and create an environment that is conducive to your health and comfort. Home visits for massage, meditation, yoga, Qi Gong and Pilates also available. Call: (310) 237 – 3356.
