Corporate life is a double-edged sword. While most people love the perks, having to sit for over eight hours is a real downer. In fact, it can negatively affect your health.
Although you may not experience them at first, there are various signs that your job is making you unhealthy. Here are a few signs to look out for.
Your Posture Isn’t What It Used to Be
Your posture plays a pretty pivotal role when it comes to your general well-being. Unfortunately, sitting for too long can do more harm than good. It’s not uncommon to unknowingly start hunching over at your desk and thrusting your neck forward.
In addition to a painful shoulder range of motion, you might start to experience tech neck and notice that you’re not standing up as straight as you used to.
You’re Exposed to Too Much Blue Light
In this day and age, a lot of office jobs have people use a computer to get the work done. But the thing is that they’re being exposed to too much blue light. Blue light is a type of light that’s emitted through various electronics like phones, tablets and computer screens.
This form of light can potentially harm your eyesight if stared at for long intervals. It can also increase your risk for seizures. Always make sure to take frequent breaks or wear special glasses that keep your eyes safe from blue light.
Your Mental Health Starts to Decline
Desk jobs are notorious for being tedious, stressful and draining. So much so, that it starts to overtake your personal life and impact your mental well-being. Combined with sitting in the same spot for hours on end, it can cause a lot of issues.
Some of these issues include fatigue, depression, and frequent aggravation. While your job is important, you should always find time for yourself. Take some time to read, have a cup of coffee, or meditate.
Your Blood Flow is Reduced
Finally, sitting at a desk job can have a severe impact on your blood flow. In fact, the American Heart Association (AHA) has reported that sitting for too long increases the risk of heart disease.
Having proper blood flow is a key factor when it comes to maintaining heart health. To keep your blood pumping, it’s essential that you remain active. Be sure to get up and walk around. Stretches are also a great way to maintain adequate blood flow.
Having a desk job doesn’t have to negatively affect your health. There are preventative measures you can take to ward off mental and physical issues. In addition to taking frequent breaks to stand, you can also work at a standing desk. If that’s out of the question, you can also make a point of getting up and walking every hour.
Finally, if you find yourself not feeling better after implementing ergonomic changes, you may want to speak to your boss. Your health should always come first.
