Top 3 Tips for Gaming Longevity

Repetitive hand motions for extended periods of time while sitting and staring at a computer screen can lead to multiple issues like eye strain, headaches, trigger finger, carpal tunnel, shoulder, back and neck pain just to name a few. With a few simple daily exercises you can help retain your fine motor skills and gaming longevity later in life (not to mention being able to open jars, grasp and lift objects - I know that doesn’t seem like an issue now, but you’ll thank me later, I promise)

Performing a few simple stretches each day can help prime your joints for gaming and the repetitive motions needed to play.

a. Tug gently on each finger for about 15 seconds, then repeat with the remaining fingers. This will relax the tendons and prep them for work.

b. To fight trigger finger, you need to strengthen your hands. Simply position a rubber band around the tip of your thumb and across the middle joint of your other fingers. Gently press outward to strengthen the ligaments and tendons.

c. Sometimes, you need a little relaxation! Soak your fingers in warm water to relax them and soften the tendons. You deserve it with all the work those fingers do!!

Have you heard the saying “Sitting is the New Smoking”? Recent research at UCLA & Cornell University reveals that sitting for extended periods of time actually changes your body’s metabolism and can contribute to back pain, neck muscle strain, diabetes, obesity, blood clots, and much more. With a few simple tweaks you can drastically reduce your risk factors.

a. Set an alarm for every 20-30 min. while you are gaming to stand up and stretch your legs.

b. Gently twist at the waist from side to side.

c. Do toe raises to get your circulation moving.

d. Drink plenty of water and take frequent bathroom breaks.

Viewing a computer or digital screen often makes the eyes work harder. As a result, the unique characteristics and high visual demands of computer and digital screen device viewing make many individuals susceptible to the development of vision-related symptoms. Digital eye strain is a real concern and can lead to dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, neck & shoulder pain, and much more. Your vision health is critical, so add a few simple steps to your break from sitting to also care for your eyes.

a. While you take your stretch break from sitting every 20 min, consider also looking into the distance for 20 seconds to allow your eyes a chance to refocus.

b. Then slowly blink your eyes 10 times to re-wet your eyes.

BONUS TIP: Apply essential oils to your fingers & hands at least 2x daily (ideally combining with one of the stretches above) to ease discomfort. Good oils could be Deep Blue Rub, Helichrysum, Aromatouch Blend, Lavender & Peppermint.