As we spend more and more time working on our computers, we tend to miss out on the most important things: how to properly use them?

If you often find yourself lying in your bed with your computer on your lap, or you think setting up a computer workstation isn’t something you need, this guide is for you.

While using our machines, laptops, computers or even smartphones, we tend to miss out on one key factor, how our body is reacting to the way we are using these machines.

During those long work sessions on your computer, the toll takes upon the body, and more often than not you’ll end up with neck/back aches. All of this can lead to serious long term problems if not addressed at the right time.

Also read: What is Keylogging? 6 ways to protect yourself

Proper methods to follow

There are a bunch of things you can do to ensure that your body doesn’t get all strained up.

Sitting Posture

It all begins with your sitting posture.

Ever since childhood, we’ve been taught to “sit up straight”. To your surprise, this is not always the best thing to do. What you’d want to do is sit in what is called a ‘natural posture’.

In most cases, your natural posture would almost be the same as a person sitting in the driver’s seat in a car. You can take this position as a starting point and modify it to make it the most comfortable for you.

Keyboard and Mouse placement

This is another most crucial thing while making an ergonomic workstation.

Now everyone has their preferences when it comes to placing their peripherals. As a general rule of thumb though, keyboard and mice should always be shoulder length apart. Your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle to reduce strain on the arm muscles.

The keyboard should be a couple of inches high from your thighs. If possible, give it a negative slope as well. Lastly, don’t use the kickstands behind your keyboard as they tend to add an upward slope which increases the load on your wrists.

Also, try and buy a keyboard that doesn’t include a number pad. Such keyboards tend to put the letter keys off-centre and might cause strain.

Monitors

Setting up your monitor (or monitors) isn’t really complicated.

To find the sweet spot for your monitor, sit in your ‘natural posture’ and extend your arm. The tip of your middle finger should touch the monitor. If it doesn’t, you’ll start ‘turtling’ or bending your back in an arc to see things correctly and that ain’t good.

If you use multiple monitors, always try and put them side by side. Heightwise, try this trick for adjustment. Close your eyes, and when you open them, they should land on the address bar. If not, adjust accordingly.

Using these guidelines as pointers, you’ll be able to set up a super comfy and ergonomic desk in no time. One that your body will thank you for it.

Also read: 60Hz vs 120Hz vs 144Hz vs 240Hz displays