Yesterday, somewhat in jest, I put a message out on Facebook asking of everyone and no one, "Which of you clowns wants to write my blog post for tomorrow?" Well, believe it or not, someone stepped up to the plate, though when she did, I wasn't sure how serious she was. Then, there it was. Today's guest post is from Lynne Zanowski, who I think I've only met once, maybe twice. We first met when she was in a workshop I was teaching a few years back.
Why is blogging such a pain in the neck?
I'm not talking figuratively. I mean literally.
Are you a blogger who finds yourself getting sore as you progress through your work day? Or - worse yet - do you tend to feel sore and achy all day, every day?
How is your posture right now as you read this on your computer, tablet or mobile phone? Are you sitting upright? Legs crossed? Are you slouching your back or leaning on one elbow? Have you totally sunk into your chair?
Generally speaking, how does your spine and your neck feel right now?
Over time, poor posture may result from bad habits developed in everyday activities such as sitting in office chairs, driving, standing for long periods of time, or even sleeping. Compromised posture for folks who spend hour upon hour in front of a screen can easily become the culprit for pain.
If sheer pain and discomfort aren't reason enough sit up and take notice, read on for a few more factors that might motivate you to get on the straight and narrow...
Three Good Reasons You Should Improve Your Blogging Posture:
It's a no-brainer to say that a decrease or cessation of neck, back and shoulder pain would be a direct advantage of addressing and correcting postural issues. So let's focus on some value-added benefits of getting yourself straightened out:
1. You'll be able to breathe easier
Try this for yourself. Sit up tall and straight and take a big inhale through your nostrils. Then let it go out your mouth.
Now, humor me on this one: strike your best "chair slouch" pose (you know, the one you find yourself falling into as you get lost in your work). Repeat the breathing exercise above. Note the difference in the amount of air you can inhale when sitting up straight vs. slouching. When in a slumped position, you may very well be robbing your body of the benefits of optimal oxygen levels. Improper oxygen consumption will ultimately lead to fatigue and heightened anxiety states.
By sitting up straight and breathing easier, your system will be rejuvenated. Your stress level will also have a much better shot at staying under control. Less stress equals more productivity. What could be better?
2. You'll be able to concentrate better
When you breathe properly, your ability to think is increased. Let's talk about oxygen again. The brain requires oxygen to do its job well; it's like food for the brain. With a properly fed brain you'll be able to think sharper and more clearly, be more creative, and focus on the task at hand - providing your readers with something interesting and useful.
3. People will think you're "all that"
Let's face it: folks with good postures look smarter and more attractive
than those who are carelessly bent over. Have you ever seen someone with a bad posture and felt that person seemed unkempt, even though they have not said or done a thing? On the flip side, someone with a good posture naturally exudes an aura of assertiveness and appeal.
Good posture will make you feel more self-confident without even doing anything else differently. Try sitting in a bad posture now for 30 seconds. Then switch to a good posture for 30 seconds. Is there any difference in how you felt? Remember, confidence is the key ingredient for excellence - not just in writing, but in everything else you do.
Tips for Correct Seated Desk Posture:
- Top of computer monitor at or just below eye level
- Head and neck balanced and in line with torso
- Shoulders relaxed
- Elbows close to body and supported
- Lower back supported
- Wrists and hands in line with forearms
- Adequate room for keyboard and mouse
- Feet flat on floor
For more information on proper workstation posture, visit Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).
And of course, consider visiting your physical therapist to evaluate and treat postural issues and pain.
Lynne Zanowski is Marketing Director for HARTZ Physical Therapy. When not working, Lynne can be found talking to friends, family, random strangers and/or boasting about her two wonderful kids, Ben, 17, and Mary, 16.
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