The Autumn desk reset
September often feels like a fresh start. Summer holidays are over, routines are returning and many of us are spending more time back at our desks.
Whether you work from home, in an office or a mixture of both, it's worth taking a few minutes to ask yourself:
Is your workspace actually working for you?
We can spend hours sitting at a desk without thinking about how our workstation is affecting our posture, movement and comfort. A few simple adjustments can make your working day more comfortable and encourage better movement habits.
Start with your screen. Your screen should be positioned so you can look straight ahead without constantly looking down or reaching forward. Ideally, the top of your monitor should be around eye level, with the screen roughly an arm's length away.
Check your sitting position. You don't need to sit completely rigid or maintain one "perfect" posture all day. In fact, changing position regularly is just as important as how you sit in the first place.
- Keep your feet comfortably supported.
- Adjust your chair so your hips and knees are in a comfortable position.
- Keep your shoulders relaxed rather than constantly raised or hunched.
- Position your keyboard and mouse so you aren't reaching forwards.
- Use your chair's back support if it feels comfortable.
The aim isn't to find one perfect position and stay there for eight hours. It's to create a comfortable workstation that allows you to move naturally throughout the day.
Your best posture is your next posture
One of the simplest things you can do for your spinal health is move regularly. Even with a well-designed workstation, sitting in the same position for long periods can leave you feeling stiff and uncomfortable.
Try setting a reminder to get up regularly. Walk to the kitchen, make a drink, take a few steps around the office or simply stand and move your shoulders and neck.
Think of it as a movement break rather than a posture break.
How can Spinal care help?
At The Spinal Health Clinics, we regularly talk to patients about how their everyday activities can affect their musculoskeletal health.
Your spine is part of a much bigger system, involving muscles, joints and movement patterns. Looking after it isn't just about what happens during an appointment, it's also about the habits you repeat every day.
Chiropractic care and Spinal therapy may form part of a wider approach to managing certain musculoskeletal problems, alongside appropriate movement, exercise and lifestyle advice.
This September, give your workspace and your spine a little reset!
Best Wishes
Phil and Rosie Clinic Directors
The Spinal Health Clinics