3 Secrets of Your Computer Screen Set Up
Feb 07, 2022
Most of us are having habits that are contrary to neurobiological science related to focus and alertness. Looking down at our screens, lying down/ back when we are on our phone, or slouching in the chair will actually activate the brain promoting calmness and sleepiness. Today I share three secrets to utilizing neurology to create more alertness and focus so that we can be more productive.
If you don't want to read all the neuro sciency stuff then just move straight into action to get the full benefits:
ELEVATE YOUR SCREEN TO AT LEAST EYE LEVEL OR SLIGHTLY HIGHER
Hint: The photo demonstrates what not to do.
Elevating your computer screen will help you with:
Secret #1: Light Increases Focus and Alertness
To optimize your workspace, bright light from overhead helps you focus more. Light from above hits neurons in the lower half of the retina in our eyes which are also part of the upper visual field. These neurons send signals to the hypothalamus which creates a state of alertness. Placing your computer screen at eye level or slightly higher will activate these neurons. The better focused and alert we are the more productive we will be.
In addition, light releases chemicals dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and cortisol. These chemicals play a role in increasing alertness and arousal and speeds reaction time. Norepinephrine has been shown to play a role in a person's mood and ability to concentrate.
Keep in mind, in the afternoon and evening you want to avoid the chemical release since it can interfere with sleep. Reduce the blue light, dim the light (turn night mode on), avoid LEDs lights.
Secret #2: Eye Position
Our eyes are moved by muscles that activate different areas of the brainstem. Looking down will activate areas of the brainstem that are related to calm and sleepiness. There is even an active inhibition of neurons that create alertness. When looking below the nose we get more tired.
Different neurons are activated by looking up (level of nose or looking up). Those neurons trigger brain circuits that are related to alertness. Elevate your screen to at least eye level or slightly above. Use a box or a stack of books to elevate your laptop and get an external keyboard. Hold your phone or tablet higher when reading.
Secret #3: Neck Position and Posture
Elevating the screen will let you sit or stand with a better posture. More upright posture correlates to more focus and alertness. Bonus: It helps you avoid aches and pains such as back, neck, elbow, wrist pain to just name a few.
