Not sure about you, but everywhere we turn these days, it seems that everyone when asked how they are says some version of “OMG! I am so busy!” And when you drill down a bit deeper and ask about how work is going the overwhelming......
In the world of ergonomics, noise issues and solutions have typically been relegated to noisy environments such as construction sites, factories, assembly lines, and other inherently noisy environments. But with so many of us WFH, soon to be returning to some variation of hoteling (unassigned......
Last year, when COVID appeared on the scene and shelter-in-place took hold, so many of us who were catapulted out of our offices and into our homes, scrambled to figure out the best work set-ups and equipment that would make our homes a viable workspace.......
With vaccines on the rise and a unique blend of optimism and precaution, business leaders are daring to peek around the corner and start thinking about what a return to the office might actually look like. And while some companies have already announced grand re-opening......
It’s hard to believe we are for at the year mark on our shared Covid-19 journey.. To say that these haven’t been the easiest of times is an understatement. If you are struggling with the emotional fallout and stress that our situation is causing, we......
When WFH began, we heard the countless plaudits for the extra time and good fortune to reconnect with our families and our kitchens, with an eye toward communing together and eating healthy! And the fact that eating out was not an option, we began to......
It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost a year that we have all been WFH, with a very hazy end-point in site. Some say this summer, some say the fall, and some say, 2022. Whenever we do go back to the office, one thing......
As were embark upon a new year, it’s a good time to recommit to taking care of yourself and making your well-being a top priority. And while the classic self-care list includes getting enough rest, eating well, moving your body and getting a handle on......
Remember this? The alarm goes off and jolts you awake. You jump out of bed, already feeling late and stressed. Scramble to get out the door. Fight the crowds to get to work. And then we all started to WFH. And in the midst of......
I don’t know about you, but for the past 7 months of being home – and more specifically with my beloved hubby at home with me, our home started growing a life of its own. A new desk in the middle of the dining room......
If you find yourself feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or burnt-out these days, you are far from alone. In fact, according to recent data, in the U.S. the number of adults suffering from stress, depression, and anxiety has tripled since this time last year. Sites like www.cdc.gov and......
If you are anything like me, when COVID first hit, exercise dropped to the bottom of my priority list, while the world as I knew it came crashing down. Other concerns like…. OMG what’s happening? Where do I get a mask? I can’t find any......
It’s 6 months already? Yup. It’s hard to believe that we’ve been working from home for 6 months already with no real end point in sight. Some companies are setting the return-to-office goal post for the end of the year, while other have moved theirs......
As we bask in the “haze” of the recent labor-day holiday weekend, we wanted to remind you about the importance of taking care of yourself. And that includes your vacation! Yes. Even during COVID. Pre-COVID, Americans, in particular, were already forfeiting their vacations, so much......
So, here we are at the start of the school year and millions of kids across America (and all over the world) are starting their first day of school in their living room. Or the dining room table. Or their couch, bed, floor, desk shared......
Let’s call a spade a spade. Working from home is challenging. Schooling from home is challenging. Trying to do both is outright stressful! But with the right strategies, set-ups, and mindset in place, there are many creative ways to turn this major challenge into a win......
For some of us, working from home has been a dream come true, and if you fall into that category, that is fantastic. But many of us are still struggling with the unique challenges of working from home during COVID which includes working comfortably, keeping......
As COVID-19 catapulted us out of our offices and into our homes, many companies have grappled with our new work reality of working from home (WFH). Some companies have allowed employees to bring home items from their office (think monitors, keyboards, mice, laptop risers,......
My mom recently came home from the hospital and to help her recover, we have assembled an amazing team of hard-working, loving and selfless caregivers. True angels. Every one of them. Team Betty we call ourselves, all devoted to getting her back on her feet.......
Now that working from home (WFH) is looking like our new work digs for the foreseeable future, it might be time to consider an upgrade. At PBE, we are big believers in work with what you’ve got, but if equipment is the solution, it’s hard to......
If you are feeling anxious, depressed or stressed out, you are far from alone. Between a world pandemic, a recession, civil unrest and looking into an uncertain future, it’s no wonder that our collective mental health is in a fragile state. And you may be......
With everyone hunkered down and working from home, the adoption of video meetings (aka Zoom meetings) to stay connected, both professionally and personally is at a historic high. And while we are more connected than ever before, a new syndrome has surfaced which many are......
With nearly 55 million children homeschooling due to COVID-19, and reports of this continuing for some time, children are spending more time on the computer, tablets and phones to get their work done. Creating a work area for your child that comfortable and ergonomically sound......
Over the past 3 weeks, we have given umpteen webinars and conducted another umpteen virtual evaluations and I can tell you this first hand, there’s working from home and then there’s COVID-19 working from home which is an entirely different creature. So, to help everyone......
So, here we are working from home (WFH) and riding out these unusual times during the COVID-19 crisis. And with this new reality, video conference calls, both, profession and personal are at an all-time high. For some of you, video conferencing is a new addition......
Home Sweet….Office? As the coronavirus (COVID-19) sweeps across the world, you might find yourself unexpectedly working from home (WFH) as more and more companies adopt WFH mandates to help protect you and stop the spread of the virus. If you find yourself directly affected by......
Over the past 50 years, the modern office as we know it has adapted and evolved and whether you work in a private office, a cubicle, an office with open seating or find yourself with no assigned desk at all the guidelines below will help......
If you wear glasses, readers, bi-focals, trifocals, progressives, contact lenses or any other type of glasses or corrective eye-wear or strain to see when using your computer screen (tablets and laptop screens count as well), then this post is for you! I have been wearing......
Do you think posture is about your back, neck and shoulders? Think again. It also includes your hands, fingers, wrists, feet, knees and hips. ...
Wait. What?!? We are told that tech is a sleep disrupter and that we should power down our devices at least an hour before bed. We’re warned about the perils of blue light that come from backlit screens disrupting our natural production of melatonin causing so......
Last week, Andrew and I had the pleasure of presenting at The Annual Ergo Expo Conference in Las Vegas. Aside from the 115-degree heat (Vegas in August is not for the faint of heart!), it was a great experience and one that we found rather......
Time and time again, when we conduct workshops and ergo evaluations in an office setting ,and ask this simple question: “How do you feel at work?” we often get this response: “Pretty good.” followed by: “I guess. I mean, sort of. I mean, you know......
Ok my friends, you know Hot-Desking has arrived and is here to stay when you search on Google and find that Hot-Desking has its own dictionary definition .. (pronunciation and all) and that Hot-Desking (a verb now?) is an official Wikipedia topic. What exactly is......
When was the last time you thought about your ergonomics when you drove your car? If you are like the rest of us, you probably think about your ergonomics every single time you get in your car, but think of it as adjusting your seat,......
If you work in customer service, provide IT support, work in retail, teach, are a public speaker, act, sing or do anything else that relies on your voice, listen up because you and your voice may be at risk. In fact, it is estimated that 17.9......
For all of my fellow dog lovers out there, this post is for you. I am lucky to work at home when I’m not consulting or traveling. And I am even luckier to work at home with our awesome pup named Bo. Bo is amazing......
Last week, I attended the Future Offices conference in NYC which was one of the best conferences I have ever attended. The speaker line up was dazzling with companies such as Airbnb, Square, Cushman Wakefield, Dow Jones, Bloomberg, Buzzfeed and Shutterstock, to name a few,......
Does this sound familiar? “I am dragging.” “Can’t sleep lately.” “I feel like I lost my mojo.” “I feel like my eyes are allergic to my screen.” “I want my energy back.” “I’m achy.” If so, you may be suffering from Burn Out. You are......
When it comes to posture, wherever your eyes go, your head and neck will follow. And that means that the rest of your back is likely to follow. And when that happens, your sitting and standing posture are drastically compromised. And that can lead to major discomfort and even injury. ...
When deciding between using headphones vs ear buds for listening, we are usually focused on things like sound quality, portability and preference. But it’s super important to also factor in the safety of using earbuds vs earphones to protect your hearing. Is this a problem?......
The 2018 Ergo Expo Conference just wrapped up in Las Vegas and it was really great! I spent 4 days learning even more about the latest and greatest in all things ergo, saw some really great new products coming out (more on that soon!) and......
News Flash! Sit/Stand desks have made their debut in our work spaces and are here to stay. That is good news because study after study tells us that sit/stand desks improve our posture and make us more productive. They also help us burn more calories, elevate......
WHAT!?!?!?! Cut ties with my phone? Are you out of your mind? If that was your reaction to the idea of cutting ties with your phone, then this post is for you! Here’s the deal. We’re all on our phones waaaaay to much and we......
If you travel for work, then I am sure you can relate to the positive aspects of being on the road. You get to see new places, meet new people, break out of your normal routine, expand your horizons and have new experiences. All good......
Is it just me or does it seem like the entire world is stressed out and “sooooooo busy,” not to mention curt in their e-mail responses, if they respond at all? And I have learned to address one and ONLY one topic or question in......
There’s a new trend making its way into the office. It’s called Work Anywhere, Hoteling Stations, Flexible Work or simply Unassigned Seating and it’s growing in popularity, at least among the folks working in Space Planning, Facilities and Accounting. In fact, 52% of corporate executives......
I think it is fair to say that I am a productivity junkie. I’m always on the quest for the latest and greatest way to get more done, improve my focus, reach my goals, manage my time, master my life – and largely, to get......
It is no secret that I am a big fan of yoga. And truth be told, I go in and out of practicing yoga because of travel, a busy schedule and, well, sometimes, that thought of going to a 90 minute yoga class feels too......
One of the best things you can do for yourself during your work day, is to stop what you are doing for a minute or two, take a few deep breaths and stretch your body! Stretching helps to relieve muscle tension, promotes circulation, improves flexibility,......
If you are looking for ways to be more comfortable when you type, you may want to look into getting yourself set up with with a mini keyboard. In short, (ha ha, get it?) mini keyboards are fully functional keyboards that have full size keys,......
Work can be stressful enough, but add in an unexpected headache to the mix and you can kiss your productivity good by, not to mention feeling terrible. Learning what is causing your headaches and arming yourself with simple strategies to combat them is key. What’s......
Many (pre-vegan) moons ago, I visited a small dairy farm in Wisconsin. Danny, the farmer, was obsessed about finding creative and caring ways to increase his cows’ milk productivity. What struck me was how clean his barn was – and yes, he experimented with messy......
Has this ever happened to you? You opened up your calendar and gasp? “OMG – WHERE DID ALL THESE MEETINGS COME FROM! How did this happen? Or “OMG, I’m so busy with meetings that I don’t have time to work!” If you relate to this,......
If you are using a computer monitor, or monitors, or a monitor and laptop – and you want to change adjust the height, angle or depth of the monitor, then you may be wondering what the best way to do that is. Today’s monitors can......
During a routine check up, my doctor told me that I had a case of sympathetic overload. My first through was “Awwww shucks, how nice of you Doc!” But then I realized he wasn’t talking about being kind-hearted, he was talking about my nervous system......
I recently gave an ergo workshop to a group of employees who travel a ton for work. I can relate since I too, travel a ton for work and for pleasure. One of the topics that came up is how to manage self-care routines on......
One of the most important but often overlooked area when setting up your work set up is lighting. In fact, did you know that good lighting helps you keep eyestrain and headaches at bay, can help you be more productive, improve your mood and even......
In the work world, finding (and applying) productivity hacks that work is like seeking the Holy Grail. We all want to know how to be more productive without burning out. And if we are honest with ourselves, it’s fair to say that many of us......
I don’t know about you, but I love my devices. In fact, I’d be pretty lost without my laptop and phone and to a lesser degree, my iPad. I rely on them for work, play, exercise, travel, research, finding my car, looking up subway directions,......
If you are like the rest of us, chances are your posture can use a little boost. The good news is that it is a lot easier that you think! Watch the video to learn how to improve your posture in 60 seconds or less......
I’m not gonna lie. I am a bona fide ergo geek, and yes, I love ergo. Ergo is the thing that got me back on track after developing debilitating Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) all those years ago. Everyday, we experience the life-changing power of good......
One of the most common issues we hear about lately is eye fatigue, irritation and eye-related headaches, all from too much exposure to screens. We call this digital eye strain. And there are many reasons for this, but it’s easier than you to keep your......
Embarking on a any big creative or work project can be outright daunting because it’s messy and without a doubt, you will find yourself in unchartered territory. But it is precisely this mess which leads you to your creative brilliance. In fact the mess IS......
When it comes to productivity hacks, I’ve tried them all. (Well, if not all, then ALOT.) And this is not the first time I’m writing about this topic since I’m always on the hunt for techniques and practices that work. Aside of my personal quest for maximizing my......
Confession time. Over the past few months, I’ve been really bad about exercising lately. And while that is bad, it’s especially bad since what I do for a living is teach and motivate people to practice healthy work habits, eat well, stress less, and you......
After many years in the field, there are common questions that come up. And there are also questions that should be asked, but are not! Today’s post is written with you in mind and to provide you with the 3 essential topics to ask your......
It has been well established that music can help boost productivity, but did you know it also helps boost your creativity? And it doesn’t stop there. It also improves your sleep patterns, lowers your stress and even strengthens your immune system. And while many genres......
In the world of ergonomics, feet tend to get left out of the conversation. We tend to focus on our backs, necks, shoulders, wrists, even bums, but little if any attention are paid to our glorious feet. And if truth be told, we tend not......
We know that this post is competing with say, maybe 3,567,897 other posts about how to have your best year yet, how to set your goals and meet them, how to be the most fit, healthy and happy version of you to date and the......
I recently had the good fortune to conduct ergonomic evaluations in Paris for one of our clients. Aside of the excitement of being in Paris, I was very curious to see if there were any major differences in work set ups, work styles and general......
Have you ever had days where you work and work and work, but don’t seem to get anything done? And then you have days where you are totally on your game? Believe it or not, it’s not a mystery, nor luck, but rather, adhering to......
If you are a fellow road warrior, you need to read this post. It may just save your life! Most airlines today offer more legroom, personal TV’s, upgrade options and anything to help keep customers happy. Some airlines (Delta) have even started service free meals......
I seem to be one of last kids on the block to embrace wearables (fitness trackers). Maybe I was dubious about wearing anything on my body that is transmitting information to my phone or computer. Maybe I was creeped out by a device knowing......
You know that delicious feeling? Being warm and cozy in your bed, sleeping like a log, hopefully enjoying a wonderful dream and then without warning BAM! That alarm goes off, and without opening your eyes you desperately feel around for the snooze button, or worse, your phone......
If you have ever been involved in an office move, you know all too well how daunting and disrupting it can be. Whether you are on the planning side of the move (HR, Facilities, Planning Committee, etc.) or being the one that has to move,......
With summer almost here, many of you are probably planning and looking forward to your upcoming vacation. But then again, (too) many of you aren’t. According to many reports and current studies, turns out that Americans work more than anyone in the industrialized world. Impressive.......
After years of struggling with time management, never ending over blown to-do lists and always feeling like I was racing against the clock, I finally figured it out. I am (was) a pathological time optimist. Truly believing that I could multi-task my way to squeezing......
Have you noticed that everyone seems to be doing yoga these days. Hot Yoga. Iyengar Yoga. Flow Yoga. Classes. Videos. It’s the thing now. That’s what I thought until I tried it. I was a skeptic, but after facing some serious health challenges, I figured, I......
It’s no secret that most of us we are in front of our screens throughout the day. Whether it’s our phones first thing in the morning (guilty!), laptops and computers at work, tablets for play and then TV to relax, we are inundated by screens!......
Look around. Every store window is glittering with holiday decorations, streets are lined with holiday lights. Invitations for holiday gatherings are coming fast a furious. Without a doubt, the holidays are upon us. And while this is a time of excitement, planning and magic, it......
First off, HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! All of us at PBE wish you a happy, healthy and meaningful new year! And you know what the best part of the New Year is? It’s like a new notebook with a fresh clean page to start the year......
I have a new mantra this year. It goes like this: “Make Space.” So what does that mean exactly? Well, it means a few things, that when I go without it, I really feel my stress-o-meter rise. Without space, I have a hard time getting things done and my productivity-meter starts......
One of the most common issues we hear about lately is eye fatigue, irritation and eye-related headaches, all from too much exposure to screens. We call this digital eye strain. And there are many reasons for this, but it’s easier than you to keep your......
I had the pleasure of teaching a workshop at a tech company in New York City. Digital Detox: Less Stress, More Balance, was the name of the class, and the main thrust was to tackle the challenging scenario that so many of us find ourselves in which......
I am an urban dweller. In fact, I live in New York City. Needless to say, spending time in nature (real nature) can be a challenge! But for the past few weeks, I have been in Oregon, (a regular summer occurrence) and have been hiking......
The truth is, companies spend tens of thousands of dollars each year on amenities like free coffee, tea and snacks. Others spend hundreds of thousands if not millions per year on perks like free breakfast, lunch and dinner, (some even have free wine and beer on tap!)......
We all know that exercise is good for us. I can list out all of the amazing health benefits from weight loss, improved health, better sleep, elevated mood, tone and strength to a stronger immune system and the list goes on and on. Yet, so......
Whether you prefer a manual , electronic, single or multi channel pipette, repetitive pipetting can pose some serious ergonomic challenges which, if you are not careful, can take a serious toll on your body. And more specifically, repetitive pipetting can cause harm to your shoulders, wrists, hands and thumbs.......
If you work with in an office, a lab or any job that involves physical labor, then read on. You see, just a few minutes of stretches during your work day can you help you: Relieve Stress (that alone is reason enough!) Sooth Sore and......
Ok so the text exchange with my best friend went something like this: “O.M.G.! You need to get a Squatty Potty.” “A Squatty Whatty?” “You haven’t heard about the Squatty Potty. I’m telling you it’s going to change your life!” “Um, ok. But what is......
As ergonomists, we work with people just like you every everyday. And as a company that conducts thousands of ergonomic evaluations each year across the U.S., there’s a common habit that we see over and over that in one fell swoop ruins otherwise great posture and......
I just got back from two glorious weeks in Paris. (Pinch me!) And it amazed me to see the French Paradox in action. If you are not familiar with the French Paradox, it is a phrase that was coined in the 1980’s when doctors and scientists......
Happiness isn’t luck. It isn’t something that happens to others. It isn’t something you can buy or wish for and certainly not something you should be envious of. In fact, just like everything else worth having, happiness is a practice. And it is our choice......
I recently stayed at a hotel and took a look at the Spa services that the Wellness Center provided. And lo and behold, among the traditional Hot Stone and Swedish massages, I spotted the Tech Neck Chair Massage and the PDA Pain Relief Hand Massage. And that got me......
I was speaking to someone recently about exercise and when I asked her how often she exercised, she said, “every single day”. “Every single day? Wow! . . . But how do you have the time?” “I make the time.” Light Bulb Moment! I, like......
“How many monitors should I be using? That’s a good question, and with multi-monitor use on the rise, it’s one that we get all the time. And our answer is usually pretty consistent. “Well, that depends. Followed by a series of questions like: “What do you......
Anyone who works in a lab, fab, clean room or production area knows first hand just how taxing that work can be on the body. And the biggest challenge in the lab is posture! Why? Many lab set ups are notoriously awkward, the work......
You made it! You survived the holidays and all of the year end madness. And now we are here at the start of a brand new year, fresh, crisp, clean and full of promise. Kind of like a brand new notebook – full of......
I had planned to write a great blog post about staying stress-free and keeping your spirits up throughout the holiday season. It was going to include a list of self care practices. It was going to include time management tips and other great ways to......
We all know that too much mouse use can be wearing on your hand, arm, wrist and even shoulder. And we all know that the endless stream of daily e-mails are not going to end anytime soon. So, we have a double whammy of good......
You know the feeling. It’s mid afternoon, your energy starts to wane but you still have a few more hours of work ahead of you. The idea of a snack comes into your head and you debate whether you should get another Frappucino, grab that......
The days of a big private office are quickly coming to an end with the adoption of open floor plans in today’s offices. And while there are many benefits to open spaces like collaboration, easy access to your team, spaciousness, natural light and lowered costs,......
If you work full time and are trying to have a semblance of a life, chances are that more often than not, your well laid plans to prepare and eat healthy meals often go right out the window. That’s when it’s easy to grab......
I finally did it! After years of writing about, talking about and recommending sit/stand desks to people, I finally took the plunge and set one up in my home office. I think there are some amazing options out there, for my set up preferences and needs,......
I don’t know about you, but I’m always on the hunt for ways to be more productive and less stressed out. Once upon a time I thought that being productive meant working more, sacrificing sleep and skipping meals. I thought that suffering but being productive......
So, you are thinking about making the switch to a sit/stand desk but not sure which set up is right for you. Well, now with so many affordable options out there, it’s easy to get confused and even a bit overwhelmed. To make......
As a life long musician, I know all too well, the miraculous powers of music. It can move us to tears. It can make us feel rapture. Music inspires. Music can scare us (think scary movie!). Music unites us. Music makes us dance. It conjures......
If you were asked if you are really and truly 100% pain free when you are working with your computer, laptop or devices, what would your answer be? You see, many of us are struggling with some type of obvious ache and pain associated with our......
We all have our vices. And we all have our time wasters – you know, the things we do, thinking “I really shouldn’t be doing this…but…” Or, we tell ourselves that we will only do this procrastination – time – wasting activity for just 5......
I don’t know about you, but I often feel as though I am racing against the clock. Between my never ending to-do-list, self imposed as well as very real deadlines, the daily marathon is stressful and I feel as though I’m forever spinning plates! But the......
Does any else ever wonder when Kale became such a celebrity veggie? I mean, when I grew up, I never heard of Kale, no less ate it, juiced it, designed salads around it, made snack chips from it or added it to smoothies. I’m not sure when Kale......
Most of us relate typing discomfort to wrists and arms. But did you know that the most common injury related to typing, mousing and device use is the elbow? If you think about your anatomy for a moment, it will will start to make sense. The......
This blog nearly ruined my weekend. Seriously. Now, don’t get me wrong, I LOVE writing to you. PBE loves writing to you. But the problem is that these blogs tend to be written over the weekend. Why? Because the weekend is open. There’s headspace. There’s......
This blog nearly ruined my weekend. Seriously. Now, don’t get me wrong, I LOVE writing to you. PBE loves writing to you. But the problem is that these blogs tend to be written over the weekend. Why? Because the weekend is open. There’s headspace. There’s......
Congratulations on your decision to embrace the concept of sitting and standing during your work day. While sit/stand options are not for everyone, redefining the standard workplace is a hot topic these days! And for good reason. Sitting at your desk all day is taxing......
Some of you may or may not know that here at PBE, we are a virtual business. This means, we have no office, never have and likely never will. When someone asks me where I work, I smile and say whereever I can plop......
We all know that we are more addicted then ever to our devices. So it’s no wonder that so many of us are plagued with unwanted aches and pains associated with the hours and hours of typing, keying and texting on our computers, laptops, iPads and......
This year, at the Thanksgiving table, we took a moment to go around the table and say one thing that we were grateful for. And at first it seemed a bit hokey, but then we got into it. My brother-n-law turned to me and......
Last weekend, I experienced something new. Something kinda strange, and something rather awesome. My best friend casually asked: “Want to go to a free rolling class this Saturday?” “Sure. But what’s a rolling class?” “You’ve never been to a rolling class? You are involved with......
Last night, my husband opened the fridge and grabbed a healthy looking snack that my daughter stocked up on. Dannon’s Fit and Light Blueberry Yogurt. Only 80 calories 0 Fat and 5 grams of protein. Sounds good right? But then I looked more......
Has this ever happened to you? You sit down to work and before you know it you look up at the clock and you cannot figure out how it got to be 2:00 in the afternoon? Do you run from one meeting to another, answering......
My daughter recently started an internship at a prestigious research center which requires long hours at the computer. Now, I know she is excited about this position, because she was a go getter, made it happen and I was the one who jumped up......
Ahhhhh. Work is done and now it’s time to play. Maybe it’s time to watch a movie on your big screen TV, your laptop, your iPad oreven your phone. Or maybe it’s time to zone out on Candy Crush, or see what your friends are......
I love what I do. I really really do. But it wasn’t always this way. I remember when I was in college, I landed a summer job at NY Life Insurance. A “good” job, which paid well and had promise for a full time position when......
Ok. I know this sounds a bit like an oxymoron to suggest improving your productivity by working less, not more, but stay with me here. I was as stuck as a person can be on a big project that had a looming deadline fast approaching.......
If you can relate to any of the following, you are far from alone. “OMG, where did all these e-mails come from?” “I keep clearing them out, and poof, they come back in droves!” “I swear, I get so many e-mails, I barely have......
I don’t know about you, but I hate using my mouse. I’ve tried them all. Standard mice, ergonomic mice, right handed, left handed and I realized that none of them feel good if I use them for very long. Now that’s not to say......
Most aches and pains associated with work are, well, associated with things you may or may not be doing on the job. Funky sitting or standing postures, pounding the keys when you type, death gripping your mouse, hunching over your laptop and not taking enough......
If you are a frequent traveler (you road warriors know who you are), or even just a pleasure traveler, then this post is for you! You see, out of desperation to find an affordable air fare I scooped up a ticket that had a 5......
With July 4th around the corner, grocery baskets are being filled up with chips, dips, steaks, beer, bacon burger ingredients, ice-cream, BBQ sauce, sweets, treats and general diet splurge delights. And as most of you know, I am a green juicing hard core vegan, while......
Last week, I just couldn’t take it any more. Between switching some rooms around in our apartment (making our former living room, our current bedroom, and our former bedroom our current office/guest room), having our nephew here with all of his belongings for 10 days and......
If your Starbucks looks anything like mine, I’d bet money that at any given time there are at least a dozen people hunched & crunched over their laptops and devices. And I would bet even more money that at any given time, offices around the......
We know that you know that you should sit up straight and try your best to have good posture, but all too often that’s not the case, especially when you are working with your laptop or computer. In fact, if you find yourself slouching or......
There was an interesting article in last week’s Sunday Times (NY Times) called PSST, Look Over Here. which addressed the impact that eye contact (or lack thereof) has on our social interactions with each other. And that begs the question, of how our work styles and technology......
If I didn’t experience it myself, I wouldn’t have believed it and would probably be rolling my eyes just about now as someone was boasting all of the amazing benefits of juicing. But stay with me here. For YEARS, I fueled my engine (which burns......
If you work at home full time or even part time (telecommute), then this post is for you! While working at home sounds like a luxury (and in many ways it is), it can be fraught with challenges that can affect your productivity as well......
This winter was a harsh one in New York. I believe we had 15 or more snow storms and endless days of cold, dreary, wintery weather. And I had not so much as a sneeze! Then spring came along (Hooray!) and I started a self......
Today marks the 4th day of a self imposed 30 day yoga challenge. Why am I doing this you ask? Well, for starters, I want to be more regular with my exercise. Here I am preaching to everyone about healthy lifestyles, self care and regular......
The other day, I knew I had gone too far when during a conference call, after shooting off a few texts and checking e-mails, (all while talking), I e-mailed a lengthy message and cc’d the very person that I was on the call with!......
Your kitchen should be a place of comfort and nourishment for you and your family, not a source of backaches, wrist pain and sore feet! Whether or not you are currently wrestling with an existing injury or ailment (like tendonitis, carpal tunnel, arthritis, back pain,......
With all due respect to ergonomic setup guidelines, proper posture, dynamic sitting, appropriate and good functioning equipment and healthy movement…….they can all be somewhat undone without learning how to prioritize, plan and engage in what we call “proper work flow”. It is analogous to the golf......
The response to our last post, Here’s an Ergo Secret That Will Help Your Wrists Rest Easy was so overwhelming, that we decided to write a sequel. The last article put the spot light on twisting your wrist when typing and mousing and the havoc......
So you have an active life! A rewarding, if not stressful and time consuming career; a spouse or significant other; maybe a child or two (or three!); a mortgage or working hard to attain one; daily chores and obligations; community involvement; maybe volunteering at the......
You know what I noticed over the years? When it comes to Ergo (the hip version of Ergonomics), everyone immediately thinks posture or, chair, or even keyboard and mouse. Most people when they hear what I do professionally, immediately stand up tall and say something......
When I was a kid and someone brought in the Duncan Butterfly Yoyo, I was hooked! Walk the Dog, Rock the Cradle , The Sling Shot were all great moves and lots of fun. Now when you apply these to dieting, they only go so far! I mean the yoyo part......
When was the last time you did nothing? Really did nothing. And by that we don’t mean you are doing nothing while fretting about the fact that you should be doing SOMETHING. We mean really kicking back, relaxing and recharging your battery because in today’s......
I recently worked with a client who complained of common computer related aches and pains. Sore neck and shoulders, on and off wrist pain and then she looked down and looked embarrassed for a moment until she finally blurted out: “And I have this pain......
If New Year’s resolutions work for you, then great, please carry on and get busy now that 2014 has rolled around. However, if you find that you approach New Year’s resolutions with gusto, only to fall down on meeting your goals and setting up this......
Something rather startling happened the other day. There was something that made me really sad. Lump in the throat, eyes stinging, hold back the tears sad. And after the feelings passed, I had this stunning realization that it’s been a while since I have felt......
Well, it’s that time of year where we are all shopping, celebrating and feasting. And if you are not careful, all that feasting can lead to weight gain. In fact, I was talking with one of our clients a few weeks ago who designed a......
Instead of writing about all of the virtues and benefits of adopting an Attitude of Gratitude like we did last year. This year, you are in for a very special treat. Feast you eyes (and ears) on this incredible video that will open your......
Recently, I had lunch with my cousin who was rightfully boasting about his two super achiever sons. Both still in school and busy with competitions, internships, puling down straight A’s, special interest activities, school politics and the list went on. My cousin turned to me......
Have you walked into a cafe lately? Any cafe will do. And if you have, you’ll agree that each cafe these days looks like a set for an Apple commercial. Most tables are filled with folks hunched over their laptops, phones and iPads, and sometimes......
Do you ever have days where you are struggling with mushy brain syndrome? You know that helpless feeling of staring at your to-do list, knowing you have to get things done but you can’t quite clear the cob webs from your brain? After a day......
It is easy for us to associate stress with struggle. We all know that things like too much work, not enough time, being constantly tethered to our devices, not enough sleep and eating junk foods will stress us out and take it’s toll. We also......
Our recent series helping you to choose the right keyboard, mouse and monitor set up has been a great success! [Choosing the Right Keyboard, Choosing the Right Mouse & Monitor Madness] And for good reason, we all want to be comfortable while we work! And......
A few months ago, we published a two part series to help you set yourself up as comfortably as possible. If you haven’t read them, we suggest you take a quick look at Pain Free Typing Part 1: Choosing the Right Keyboard and Pain Free Typing......
I don’t know about you, but when I was young, I loved the start of the new school year. Everything was new again. A clean slate. A new notebook, new textbooks, new locker. Sure there were some nerves, but mostly excitement to see all of......
Why does anyone join a gym? To tell your neighbors and friends that: (1) you realize you are getting (have gotten) soft in the middle;(2) you want to be more like them (if they go to a gym); (3) you think you are a step......
We are always touting the numerous benefits of a great ergonomics and wellness program. But how do you do that when resources are slim and you don’t have much more than yourself and maybe a few support people to help you put a program together.......
They say that 50 is the new 40. I don’t know who “they” are but my hat goes off to “them”. Of course, this another way to advance the hopeful canard: “you’re not getting older, you’re getting better!” However, I think Bob Seger said it......
The ErgoMuse Presents….. In today’s world of computer monitors (single, multiple and monster sized) as well as our tablets, phones and even TV’s, we are bombarded with screens everywhere! But how is this affecting your eyes? And in turn, how does your vision (or......
At the ripe old age of 40, after more than 20 years of smoking anywhere from one to one and a half packs a day, I decided it was time to give healthy inhalation of air a try. In truth, I could not find a......
Since the advent of the personal computer (circa 1980) ergonomists have been warning both computer users and the companies they work for alike, that poor posture, outdated or deficient equipment and flawed movements may contribute to fatigue, discomfort, pain and if unchecked, injury. It is......
The ErgoMuse Presents….. We are very excited to kick off our new monthly video ErgoChats. These are live interviews with experts who specialize in all things ergo and wellness! Today’s special guest is Dr. Paul Bommarito, O.D.,C.I.E. Dr. Bommarito is an optometrist specializing in occupational......
If you thought choosing the right keyboard was daunting (see part one of this series), try cruising through the computer options of any big box store (think Best Buy, Office Max, Staples) or go onto Amazon and type in the words computer mouse. Talk about......
Once upon a time typing was really simple. There was something called a typewriter and you sat down and typed! Then technology jumped forward and the era of personal computers were born. The keyboard you used was the one that came with the computer.......
Last week, a wonderful friend of mine, Kathryn Goodson came to NYC to perform for the first time in Carnegie Hall. We went out to dinner the night before the concert with her husband who happens to be the Mayor of Ann Arbor, MI.......
A few weeks ago, I participated in a company health fair. There were lots of tables set up, each one promoting a different aspect of health like blood pressure, weight loss, fitness, dental and even financial! Everyone had their bag of goodies including......
A few weeks ago, I participated in a company health fair. There were lots of tables set up, each one promoting a different aspect of health like blood pressure, weight loss, fitness, dental and even financial! Everyone had their bag of goodies including fresh......
What do you do when your day starts to get away from you and your to do list seems to be getting longer? Do you…. (A) resign yourself to staying late to finish or working from home in the evening, or (B) finish what you......
For any of you who have followed my 21 Day Workaholic Recovery Plan, you might have noticed that I omitted writing about week 3 of my plan which was dedicated to getting back into a fitness routine. The plan was fairly simple and looked......
In an effort to promote health and wellness in the office, it’s vital to enjoy yourself OUT of the office. Today’s guest blog by Erica Duncan reminds us about the importance of recess! “It’s time for recess!” my teacher declared, standing up and directing......
I’m a little embarrassed to admit this, but I have become one of those gadget girls. You know the ones in Starbucks who whip out their laptop, iPhone and tablet. Well, I am now one of those types that work surrounded by my laptop, iPhone, Samsung......
I think we can all agree that our beloved laptops are amazing. Portable, convenient and best of all, they allow us to work anywhere. And while laptops pose their fair share of ergonomic challenges, the ergo solutions are numerous and fairly easy to implement.......
As you know, the ways in which we respond to both physical and mental stressors profoundly influences our behaviors, both positive and negative. And what with our ever increasing levels of “connectivity” and need to multi-task, we seem to be under more stress and......
Yahoo’s recent stand on their Work-At-Home policy has fired up some mighty heated debates across the globe. As the discussion on the Pro’s and Con’s of this edict continue, I feel compelled to weigh in. Working at home isn’t for everyone, but for those......
I am happy to let you know that I made it through Week 2 of the 21 Day Workaholic Recovery Plan. Not only was this week easier than the first week, but it has confirmed something that I know to be true, but lost sight......
When we first started, almost 15 years ago, there were many organizations which were still afraid of the word “ergonomics” like it had cooties or a plague of locusts would descend on any who uttered its name! There was not always company “buy in” and......
Well, I survived week one of the 21 Day Workaholic Recovery Plan and it was an interesting ride. Overall, it was a success, but some very interesting habits, mindsets and insights surfaced. And I don’t believe I’m the only one who has experienced this. My......
Ok. I admit it. Lately I have been something of a fraud. A fake. Someone who runs a company dedicated to wellness, blogs about all these great ways to take care of yourself and yet, I myself have not been practicing what I preach! I......
In the 21st Century, most of us expect that employers are at least aware of the term ergonomics and moreover, are attuned to the benefits of an ergo program, even in the most reactive and rudimentary form. Antiquated ideas of allowing the staff to “muddle......
As a result of tightening budgets and a lack of economic certitude, both employers and employees are asking themselves the same kinds of questions in determining whether or not to schedule ergonomic evaluations or training. And whether or not an employer is proactive or reactive......
If your To-Do-List is anything like my To-Do-List, it is like a trick candle. Remember trick candles? You blow them out and then poof! The flame reappears, and everyone laughs, but you. Well, on days that are crammed in with more To-Do list items......
If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it dozens of times from prospective clients: “ If we broadcast that we are willing to provide ergonomic evaluations on a preventive basis, then everyone will want one and then what will we do!? It could be expensive!”......
I don’t know about you, but for me, snacks are where I fall down. It’s easy to eat a healthy breakfast, pack a salad chock full of nutritious goodness and plan a healthy dinner. But when your stomach starts to rumble in the middle of......
How far from my monitor should I be? Do I need a footrest? Where do I place my mouse? Do I need a keyboard tray? How do I adjust my lumbar support? These and many other “ergonomic” questions are both profound and yet, confound many......
We’ve all been there. Work piles up, so you pull another late night which means a good night’s sleep goes out the window. After hitting the snooze button enough times, you drag yourself out of bed, realize it’s late, hop in the shower, get......
When it comes to making a decision about whether or not to continue working, just to get the last item on your check list accomplished before lunch or before COB or before the weekend or….getting up and stretching, going to the gym or taking a......
They are everywhere! Laptops. Tablets. Smart Phones. Two, three, four and even five monitors on a single desktop. It is screen madness. And then there’s the meeting scene: people huddled over a laptop in conference rooms, lounge areas and even hallways. I believe it is......
Many organizations have a seemingly well defined response to ergonomic issues that could arise. For example, we have seen a serious uptick in requiring ergonomic information and/or training as part of new hire packages and orientation. “Nip it in the bud!” Great idea! Some companies......
We’ve all been there! A twinge, an ache or an all out back attack. Whatever form it takes, back pain is no fun and can be a real hindrance to your everyday activities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 1 million......
As practicing ergonomists and users of computers, laptops and mobile devices, we have wrestled with the gap that exists between office and furniture design and a good sound ergonomic set up. The trick for most of us working in the fields of Ergonomics, Healthy &......
Everyone wants to feel great, and what better time is there than the start of the New Year to incorporate easy ways to help you get there! Here are 10 simple ways to improve your health, boost your energy and feel your best! Get......
These days, with laptops, tablets, smart phones and virtual office options like Go-To Office, Webex and Skype, the traditional office has changed before our very eyes. And this transformation is paving the way for Work Anywhere programs, telecommuting and home offices. But the truth is,......
While everyone wants to be ergo savvy and avoid aches and pains while working, not everyone has a big budget to work with. Over the years, PBE has had the luxury of working with companies with big budgets, as well as companies whose motto......
Does this sound familiar? You wake up, grab your nearest device (which is likely your alarm clock), hit the snooze button a few times, check the weather and maybe glimpse at some news headlines. Next comes rapid succession of a glimpse at Facebook, LinkedIn, and......
As technology advances, allowing for flexible work spaces, companies around the world are embracing “work anywhere” programs. And while these programs have terrific benefits with regards to cost savings, reducing carbon footprints and attracting talent, these programs are also presenting very real ergonomic challenges......
A few years back, while teaching an ergo class called Improving Your “Position” at Work, a student remarked that their company (which shall remain nameless) was so fantastic that they even “gave you a new computer for your home” as part of their new......
Guest Blog Post By: Jacqueline Bogard, EHS Consultant Did you know that each year the flu season results in an estimated 100 million lost work days? According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) that translates into 6.2 billion (yes, BILLION) in lost wages, not to......
As Thanksgiving approaches, it is only natural to take stock and think about things we are grateful for. And for those who volunteer on Thanksgiving and Christmas to help the needy and the lonely – while the act of giving is always a beautiful thing,......
It is getting close to lunch! It is late Friday afternoon! My presentation is in 45 minutes! My deadline is in 2 hours! Wait! Just 5 more e-mails to respond to! These are just a few of the myriad “reasonable” excuses we allow ourselves......
Is it just me, or is everyone glued to their devices these days? And not just glued, but texting, texting and then texting some more. Seriously, people text while they talk to you (and tell you that they are listening!), or interrupt their conversation with......
Remember when you were growing up, how your parents and teachers loved to tell you to sit up straight? And you’d respond by rolling your eyes, sitting up straight (ish) and then two minutes later slumping back down into your chair, only to be reminded......
Help! I am Working and I Can’t Get Up! On a recent weekend, I went to visit my son at college, and in a “glory day’s” moment decided to play basketball with him and his roommates. Quite the athlete I used to be (emphasis on......
Recently, I conducted an ergonomic evaluation for a woman who was struggling with back, hand, neck and shoulder pain from her work set up. During the course of the evaluation, while giving a demonstration of good and bad sitting postures, a funny beep came from......
Most of us have gotten used to the current reality of trimming our personal budgets and dealing with the economic upshot of self imposed austerity. On a personal level we can all appreciate (even if we are not happy about it!) that we must adjust......
Let’s face it. Being tired when you don’t want to be really sucks. When you’re tired, instead of experiencing the world in color, it kind of goes grey and everything feels harder than it should. Your mind feels like sludge, your body like mush......
The question of whether you should sit or stand during your work day is a mighty hot topic these days! In fact, we get asked about this on a daily basis! Employees like the option, many employers are skeptical, and yet other companies......
Ok, so let’s face it. Ergonomics is not sexy. It just isn’t. It’s often technical and promotes concepts like human factors and maximizing productivity. It advocates things like sitting ergonomically correct and adhering to the 90 degree rule. Take a look at a standard definition of ergonomics: Case in Point! Now, this......