Do you spend hours staring at screens; computer screens, laptop screens, phone screens or television screens? Have you ever intended to take a break, but didn’t get around to it? We’ve all been there. You may not know that there is a wide variety of apps available, which are specifically designed to prompt you to take regular breaks. Some of us like to use our phones or smart-watches to do this. If you are using a computer at work, there are many apps available that can help.
WHY TAKE SCREEN BREAKS?
Staring at screens causes eye strain and headaches. We don’t blink enough when using screens and this can also cause dry eyes and lack of focus. Our bodies are not designed for prolonged sitting or staring at screens. Remaining sedentary for long periods is linked with a variety of adverse health effects. With a little prompting, we are better at getting up and moving.
Posture Minder
Posture Minder is a Google chrome web extension, it reminds you to sit up straight with pop-up notifications at specified time intervals. You can specify the time intervals and add in walk reminders also.
Break Timer
This app enforces periodic breaks to prevent repetitive strain injury (RSI) and eye strain. Again, it is possible to customise the time intervals to meet your needs. This app allows you to take a full-screen break or just set a simple notification to appear.
Workrave
Workrave is a program that assists in the prevention of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). The program frequently alerts you to take micro-pauses, rest breaks and restricts you to your daily limit. The program runs on GNU/Linux and Microsoft Windows.
Stretchly
This software runs on every desktop platform. Every ten minutes it encourages you to take a 20-second break. Every 30 minutes it tells you to step away from your computer for a five-minute break. It is possible to customise the duration & intervals.
Time Out
This app is exclusive to macOS. Time Out allows you to customise how frequent break reminders appear and how long breaks are for.
These are just a few of the many options available to you when it comes to break reminder software. Remember to give your eyes regular screen breaks – at least a 20 seconds break for every 20 minutes spent looking at a screen. Also remember to change posture very frequently, move at least every 30 minutes.
ERGONOMICS SUPPORT FOR YOUR COMPANY
To learn more about office setup and good ergonomics principles, you can reach out to Fit for Work to talk about how an ergonomic programme within your office can increase productivity, increase staff satisfaction, improve staff retention and reduce sick leave.
