The coronavirus lockdown has confined us to the four walls of our houses. With not much to do within this small space, most of us are spending more time than usual in front of the screens. Professionals are killing boredom by working longer hours than usual and once their work gets done, they switch to their phones or put on a movie on their laptops/TV.

While it’s alright to keep yourself distracted, spending almost the entire day and night staring at your screen can affect your mind and body. Amid the COVID-19 lockdown, it is important to stay healthy inside out. Here’s what happens to your body if you stare at your screen for too long and what to do about it.

 

Effects:

Effects:

Some of the most common effects of staring at a screen for long hours are eye strain and headache. Sitting or lying in one position for too long can cause strain on the neck and back. Avoid staying up late to finish office work as this can lead to insomnia and interrupted sleep. HEV light or high energy visible light from TV, phones and computer penetrates the skin deeper than UV lights and leads to premature ageing and pigmentation.

 

Here’s what you can do instead:

Here’s what you can do instead:

  • Take frequent breaks

The 20-20-20 rule is one of the best ways to prevent your eyes from straining. Every 20 minutes, stare at an object that’s 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Other than this you also need to take short breaks every hour or so. Take a walk around the house for 5 minutes or stretch your muscles.

  • Keep your posture and the laptop brightness in check

While working from home, most people tend to work from their bed or some other comfortable space but this can badly affect your posture. Sit up straight, place the laptop at an arm’s length and a comfortable height. Ensure that the brightness is the same as your surrounding. Anything brighter than that will cause strain on the eyes.

  • Stay hydrated

Whether you are working from home or at the office, it is important to keep a water bottle on your desk at all times. It will remind you to drink water constantly and will enable you to keep a track of how much water you are consuming. Not drinking enough water can also cause headaches sometimes. Remember to have your meals on time and avoid eating at the same place where you are working.

  • Limit screen time

Set a time post which you will switch off all gadgets or at least keep them away. Your mind and body need time to wind down for the night and the light from these gadgets stimulate the brain and keep you up longer, thereby causing insomnia and sleeplessness.