Protecting your well-being in a digital world with health gadgets

In today’s digital age, we are increasingly tethered to screens, from computers and smartphones to tablets and televisions. While technology provides immense benefits, extended screen time can negatively impact our health, causing eye strain, poor posture, and related discomforts. Thankfully, several gadgets and tools are designed to mitigate these issues, ensuring a healthier tech life. Here’s a guide to essential devices and apps that can help safeguard your well-being. 

Solve posture woes with ergonomic workstations 

One of the primary contributors to discomfort and long-term health issues in a tech-heavy lifestyle is poor posture. Sitting in front of a screen for hours in an unsupportive setup can lead to back pain, neck strain, and even repetitive strain injuries. Ergonomic workstations can help counteract these issues. 

Flexispot 

Flexispot offers sit-stand desks designed to encourage movement throughout the day. Alternating between sitting and standing reduces the risks of prolonged sitting, such as cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal problems. Flexispot’s electric height-adjustable desks allow you to change positions easily with the touch of a button, promoting a healthier working posture. 

Autonomous SmartDesk 

The Autonomous SmartDesk is another excellent option. This desk is fully customisable, allowing you to adjust its height and dimensions to suit your workspace. Its AI-powered SmartDesk Pro remembers your preferred settings and encourages you to switch positions at regular intervals. Investing in an ergonomic desk can lead to immediate benefits in comfort and long-term improvements in health. 

Fight the flare with blue light glasses 

Prolonged exposure to blue light from screens can cause digital eye strain, headaches, and disrupt sleep patterns by affecting your circadian rhythm. Blue light glasses filter out a portion of this high-energy light, protecting your eyes while you work or browse. 

Gunnar Optiks 

Gunnar Optiks is renowned for its blue light filtering technology. Their glasses are scientifically designed to reduce eye strain and improve focus. Gunnar’s lenses block up to 65% of blue light, offering significant relief from the common symptoms of eye fatigue. 

Razer Anzu 

For those looking for an innovative combination of functionality and fashion, Razer Anzu is a smart eyewear option. These blue light filtering glasses come with built-in audio, allowing you to enjoy music or take calls without the need for additional headphones. The Razer Anzu blocks 35% of blue light and comes with replaceable lenses for customisation. 

Both of these glasses provide a sleek and comfortable solution to blue light exposure, helping protect your eyes while enhancing your tech experience. 

Cut pollution and protect ears with noise-cancelling headphones 

Noise pollution in your environment can cause distractions, stress, and fatigue. Noise-cancelling headphones are a great way to enhance focus and create a peaceful work environment. Not only do they block out distracting sounds, but many models also come with features that promote overall well-being, like ambient sound modes and comfortable designs for long use. 

Bose QuietComfort 

The Bose QuietComfort series is a pioneer in the noise-cancelling headphones space. Known for their superb sound quality and advanced noise-cancelling technology, these headphones allow you to block out background noise, whether it’s the hum of an office, traffic, or other distractions. The headphones are designed for extended wear, ensuring maximum comfort even during long hours of use. 

Sony WH-1000XM5 

Another top performer in this category is the Sony WH-1000XM5. These headphones boast industry-leading noise-cancelling capabilities and deliver exceptional sound quality. With multiple settings to customise the amount of ambient sound you want to allow, these headphones are perfect for maintaining focus or relaxing in a noisy environment. They are also designed to reduce pressure on the ears, making them ideal for long listening sessions without discomfort. 

Boost retina rest with eye exercises and break reminders 

While blue light glasses and ergonomic workstations are essential, taking care of your eyes and taking regular breaks is also crucial for maintaining eye health and overall well-being. Several apps are designed to assist with eye exercises and remind you to take breaks, helping to reduce digital eye strain and fatigue. 

VisionUp – eye exercises for digital eye strain 

VisionUp is an app designed specifically to offer eye exercises and training plans aimed at reducing digital eye strain. The app provides a variety of exercise programmes that can be completed in just a few minutes. These exercises include techniques to improve focus, relax the eyes, and prevent strain from extended screen use. VisionUp also tracks your progress and reminds you when it’s time for a break, making it an excellent companion for anyone spending significant time in front of a computer. 

EyeCare – eye break reminders and blue light filtering 

EyeCare is another valuable app for maintaining eye health. It helps users by providing reminders to take regular eye breaks, which is crucial in reducing the risk of digital eye strain. The app also features a blue light filtering option, adjusting your screen’s brightness and colour temperature based on the time of day. By dimming harsh blue light in the evenings, EyeCare helps to mitigate the disruption to your sleep cycle that often results from using digital devices before bed. Additionally, EyeCare’s adjustable features allow you to customise break intervals and blue light filtering settings to suit your schedule and preferences. The app integrates seamlessly with your existing devices, offering a proactive way to take care of your vision. 

Additional tips for a healthier tech life 

In addition to using ergonomic workstations, blue light glasses, and noise-cancelling headphones, there are several other adjustments you can make to improve your tech life: 

• Set timers for breaks: Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple practice helps reduce eye strain and promotes better focus. Setting timers or using apps like VisionUp or EyeCare can remind you to follow this rule. 

• Stretch regularly: Sitting for long periods can lead to tight muscles and joint stiffness. Incorporate short stretching routines throughout your day to alleviate muscle tension. Simple stretches like neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and wrist stretches can make a big difference. 

• Adjust your screen setup: Ensure your screen is positioned at eye level and about an arm’s length away from your face. This will reduce strain on your neck and eyes. Additionally, ensure your workspace is well-lit to avoid glare on your screen. 

Distilled 

Technology plays an essential role in our daily lives, but it doesn’t have to come at the cost of our health. By adopting these gadgets and tools, you can create a tech-friendly environment that promotes both efficiency and health, ensuring that you stay productive without sacrificing your well-being. Whether you’re working, gaming, or simply browsing, these essential solutions will help you maintain a healthier relationship with your tech.