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Designers who are 40 plus, how are you...

over 4 years ago from andreis .

  • Mike StevensonMike Stevenson, over 4 years ago

    Could you share any tips to keep your body from giving you problems? I'm only 33 but often have a hard time sitting and working at my desk all day, which obviously is not optimal.

    I do have back issues, but I go to physical therapy, work out as often as possible, try and sleep well, and constantly stretch. I still have pains from sitting/standing for too long and I'd like that to, well, not. It really robs me of my ability to focus and be as meticulous as I'd like when designing.

    2 points
    • Bevan StephensBevan Stephens, over 4 years ago

      Hi Mike, I'm afraid I've been lucky enough not to have any physical problems with sitting and working, so I can't give you any advice there. I'm sure you've considered anything I could think of.

      0 points
    • Jeff CouturierJeff Couturier, over 4 years ago

      Get up and move at least once an hour. It's cliche, but that's what it takes. Take a walk, even if it's a short one around the building or in the building. Find ways to work in places that are not your desk. Hopefully you have a laptop and can take it to a another corner of the office, or to a table you can stand at. This is immensely helpful, even if it's only for 30 minutes a day. Not only is it good for your overall health, those changes of scenery are great for your creative flow.

      Beyond all of that, get a dog if you can. Having a dog means I walk a minimum of 2 miles a day, which is great for both your physical and mental health.

      3 points
      • Ryan Hicks, over 4 years ago

        100% to all of this.

        Also if you can convince your company to invest in a stand desk. If you can't do that then invest in one on your own. Get one of those things that you put on your desk that converts it to a stand desk. Stand up, walk around every now and then... essentially what @Jeff Courturier mentioned.

        1 point
    • David Tierney, over 4 years ago

      I'm 52. I have had trouble sitting for long hours at at time and move around, do yoga, work out, etc. to keep fit. However recently I started in on two things that have helped and I wanted to share specifically. One is called Foundation Training. Search it online and you can find it. The other is a book titled, "8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back". Both are helpful and I recommend them.

      1 point