How should you sit at your desk?

For those of us who work in an office, you will often be sitting at a desk for most, if not all of your day. While sitting down can be great (lazy, us?), it can also wreak havoc on your body if you don't do it right. Well, how DO you sit at your desk correctly? Our handy guide to desk-appropriate posture will help you out!

• Make sure you support your back to avoid back pain. The lower back can be easily supported by a correctly adjusted chair, so make sure your chair is easily adjustable so you can change the height, back position and tilt. Your knees should be slightly lower than your hips. 
• Adjust your chair so you can use the keyboard with your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor. This helps to prevent repetitive strain injuries.
• Place your feet flat on the floor, or use a footrest if necessary. Crossing your legs can cause posture-related problems.
• Your screen show be directly in front of you at eye level. The monitor should be about an arm's length away. To get the right level you may need to use a monitor stand. The right level will help prevent any neck strain from having to look too high or low.
• The keyboard should be in front of you, and should be 4 to 6 inches from the front of the desk to rest your wrists between typing. Your arms should be bent in an L-shape and your elbows by your sides. Some people like to use a wrist rest to keep their wrists straight and at the same level as the keys.
• Keep your mouse as close to you as possible, including during use. You may find a mouse mat is useful to keep your wrist straight.
• Keep your frequently used objects close to you so they are easily accessible, to avoid repeatedly stretching or twisting.
• Take breaks, and don't sit in the same position for too long. Change your posture as often as you can, to give your muscles a chance to relax.

Do you have any tips for posture? Let us know @office_fruit