Working from home has become the new normal for those who can afford to continue their work on a remote and digital scale. Dining rooms have become work offices, and couches double-duty as makeshift desk chairs. What this also means is that your posture has likely been affected and you might be feeling more neck and back pain than usual in this last month.
As we sit in these postures for long hours of the day, our body becomes accustomed to this stress and the best way to alleviate some of the discomforts you may be feeling is to stretch regularly. As simple as it sounds, a little goes a long way. According to Lucie O’Shaughnessy, physiotherapist at Bupa UK, there are a few back stretches you can do every few hours to keep the discomfort at bay. No equipment necessary.
Apart from stretching, it’s important to also take breathers every once in a while. Go for a short walk, even if it’s just around the house. Stand and work from your desk like so for at least an hour daily, and when you’re sitting, make sure your back is straight and not hunched over.