Companies around the world have given up their office spaces. Work from home is now the “in” thing. While many took time to adjust to this new concept, a lot were enthusiastic about the same and invested in ergonomic chairs and desks, creating an office setup at home. Amidst this, a lot of people also started working from bed, either due to a lack of space that can be turned into an office setup, or just for the comfort that comes with it.
After all, who does not like to be sprawled across the bed in comfortable loungewear during a conference call when no one is seeing?
However, while the trend is gaining momentum on social media and becoming a part of the “work from bed” culture, here is what you should know about the downside of working from the bed. Once you work from bed, it not only potentially wrecks your body but also affects your productivity and sleep habits as it removes the association of comfort or relaxation from the bed. Your mind starts learning that the bed can now be used for any activity which eventually evolves into conditioned behaviours.
This situation has also given rise to ‘coronasomnia’, a condition related to insomnia and sleep disorders that have gone up due to the pandemic that has disrupted the whole sleep cycle for many.
The easy way out is to look for a space at home that can be turned into a work desk and maintain sleep hygiene. If this is not possible, then ensure to not work for at least 2-3 hours before sleep time on the bed to give your mind a break.
Not only this but in addition to playing havoc on your sleep, working from bed also makes you sleepy thanks to all those cosy pillows and comforters. It further also affects the quality of sleep.
Along with that, the comforter that makes working from the bed tempting can also lead to overheating of the laptop that can pose a potential fire or health hazard. Furthermore, the number of cords hanging from the bed restricts the movement.
An important aspect to consider here is that when you use the bed as a workspace it means you are bringing work to the bed, both literally and figuratively. If you have had a stressful and hectic day, the feeling will stick to you if you continue to think about work even once you slide under the covers for sleep.
This can also lead to lethargy which can affect your productivity. Since you are not relaxed, it can also impact your ability to come up with creative ideas or wise decisions.
If you thought sleep and productivity are the only two pitfalls of work from bed, it is time to open your eyes to the ergonomic nightmare this concept can be. While working from home is a privilege it is also the path of least resistance. In simple words, it restricts your body to stretch or move in any way leading to sore muscles. It also compels your back to curve when you have the monitor at an incorrect height.
Sharing your bed with electronics instead of a partner has real impacts on relationships. A few studies indicate that distractions during time with your partner can even lead to depression in your significant other due to divided attention. Leaving the screens out of your arms reach can help your partner associate the bed with togetherness rather than work.
Lastly, no matter how much you want to work from your bed, however, you must know that human bodies shed enough dead skin cells per day to feed one million dust mites. If you consider the amount of time spent during the day working on the bed along with night-time, you are only adding to the build-up of bacteria and sitting in it every day.
While a 30-minute phone call from the bed will not harm you, working away from the bed can help you be more cheerful, active, and allow you to stick to a routine.
Also, did you know that the concept of working from the bed is actually inspired by Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in the 40s and 50s? He was known to notoriously spend his mornings working in bed.
While the concept is gaining popularity given our work from home situation, however, it is important that you consider the points above to ensure your health and work both stay in optimum shape.
Work From Bed FAQs
- What is a good alternative to working from bed?
Instead of working from the bed that eventually harms the body, you can make use of an adjustable table and sit on the edge of the bed to work. This will ensure your back stays erect and your work gets done as well. However, it is advisable to not work in such a position for more than 30 minutes during the day.
- What are a few side effects of working from bed?
Working from the bed not only affects your sleep cycle but also makes you sleepy. Along with it also affects your body posture, eventually leading to backaches and sore muscles that further impact your productivity.