Working From Bed, A Dream Come True?

Is Working From Bed All It's Cracked Up To Be?

Working from bed has become the norm for thousands of Brits since the start of the pandemic. Indeed, the pull is strong. After all working from bed seems like a dream come true. No more long commutes or stuffy suits. Instead just comfy clothes, cosy bed sheets and endless mugs of tea. In fact, some people have reported that they are doing their 40 hour working week from the comfort of their bed. Sounds idyllic doesn't it? However, as the old adage goes when something seems too good to be true it probably is.

Indeed, whilst working from bed might seem perfect, the reality is that you are more than likely setting yourself up for physical and psychological problems. What's more, some of these adverse effects could become permanent.

Working From Bed - Postural Disaster

Whilst you may feel as cosy as a bug in a rug, working from bed is an ergonomic nightmare. Indeed, working slumped over your laptop from your bed can have all sorts of postural implications. Your neck, back and hips can all take a hit. What's more you could develop headaches or long lasting cervical problems that become ingrained. Unfortunately the body isn't designed to be slumped over a computer. However, working at a desk, with a chair that keeps your spine in a neutral positions can help to reduce the impact on your body. Sorry to to be bearers of bad news!

However, we recognise that not everyone has the resources to recreate a work station at home. Indeed, the pandemic has forced many of us to create a makeshift office in our bedroom. If there is no way that you can work from a desk or table whilst at home then it's all about damage limitation. Experts recommend trying to get your body in the most neutral position that you can. This could involve placing a pillow behind your back for support and trying to keep your screen at eye level so you don't strain your neck. And whatever you do, don't lie on your stomach as this worst position you could put your body in.

Working From Bed- Psychological Damage

It might seem ludicrous to suggest that working from bed is bad for your mental health but hear us out. Whilst the occasional lazy day in bed doesn't harm anyone, continuously using your bed for activities that it isn't meant for, spells disaster. Indeed, experts recommend that you only use your bed for sleeping, sexual relationships and illness. Once you start using it for anything else, including work, it can start to wreak havoc on your sleep cycle. Indeed, once you give yourself permission to view your bed as anything other than a resting place it can become a difficult place to chill. And thus conditions such as insomnia can ensue. Without a doubt, Insomnia can bring with it a whole host of health problems including depression and anxiety.

It is therefore recommended that, when possible, you keep your bed out of your work life. We would also recommend trying to stick to a sleep schedule that will help you get the rest that your body and mind needs. This could include having a warmth bath and a hot drink before you hit the sack. Trying to stick to a regular bed times can also be helpful when trying to optimise your sleeping behaviour. You can read more about sleeping for optimum health here