CONSUMER CARE
INVEST IN ITEMS FOR A SAFE, COMFORTABLE WORKSPACE By Gracie Rowell
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reating a positive environment for work is crucial not only to one’s sanity, but also to one’s productivity. Having a comfortable workplace while being efficient and happy is every employee’s goal, no matter the field. Here are a few ways that any employee can introduce physical, cognitive and organizational ergonomics into their workspace. COMFORT– BUT FASHION Being comfortable is important for workers on their feet all day. Investing in supportive insoles and quality socks could be a bit pricey. Yet, it is so worth the investment. So many of our local shops offer a variety of socks in fun patterns and colors. When shopping locally, there is no wait on the product and no added shipping cost. Best of all, that money goes back into our community. Another item that provides important protection is eyewear. If there is any chance of a fragment of any material flying back into
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FO U R C O R N E R S H E A LT H Y L I V I NG
the eyes, then some protective gear needs to be worn on the job. In the last few years, the eyewear game has grown. Some protective products stick to resting on the ears, while others have a band to wrap around for security. Today, some brands of eye protection also offer fun colors or patterns. An eye care provider can provide a prescription to a variety of places that manufacture protective eyewear, and they can make a custom pair. No need to have two layers anymore!
HOME BASE The desk space should take elements of ergonomics to heart. To start, the top of a computer monitor should be about eye level while seated. This allows for improved posture. Feet should be able to touch the ground with ease. Wrists should be parallel to the forearms, while elbows are close to the body, yet supported by armrests. These can all be relatively inexpensive changes depending on what needs to be changed. Ergonomics also focuses on organizational and cognitive elements of work efficiency. It turns out there was a reason mom was always saying to go clean your room. A clean workplace not only provides balance, but it also saves time.
Being able to identify where every item is will save time and future stress. Invest in a small desk organizer for pens, pencils, chargers and more, so that all items can be readily available.
RELAXATION AFTER-HOURS Getting home from a long day of work can be exhausting. All that is left to do? Relax. To prevent pain and relieve stress, consider purchasing items that can provide a sense of comfort. For example, try investing in a quality neck pillow. Waking up with a crick in the neck is one of the worst feelings, and going to work with it makes the situation worse. Indulge in a neck pillow for sleeping, this way the neck is staying in one position and the pillow is supporting the head. Another option is a maternity pillow. And no, you do not have to be pregnant to enjoy its benefits. It can help with back pain, promotes blood circulation and gives a similar experience to a weighted blanket. These comfort items can be easily found in stores or online.
