Working From Bed Isn't A Good Idea. Here's Why
For remote workers, the bed can feel like a tempting place to nestle in for the work day with the idea that it may decrease stress along the way. However, research indicates that working from our beds may be more problematic than beneficial.
While the numbers vary based on age group, the average adult should be getting between seven and nine hours of sleep per night (via SleepFoundation.org). In order for this to happen, it's important that we associate our bedrooms with rest and recuperation. Between the increased use of screen time, and the new mental associations formed between work and our bed, it becomes difficult to wind our brains down at night which then has a negative effect on our sleep (via Healthline). A poor night's sleep also goes hand in hand with energy. With less energy, you may find yourself struggling to stay focused and engaged throughout the day.
Working from bed can affect sleep, energy, and your back muscles
In addition to the effects on our mental health, experts caution that working from bed can have negative physical side effects as well. Extended time spent in bed is often directly linked to back problems (via Healthline). A 2007 study conducted by the University of Queensland examined the effects of prolonged bed stays on a group of young men (via Science Daily). It was found that after 56 days in bed, the time resulted in painful changes to the men's back muscles due to poor posture that for some, took months to recover from.
Staff members at the Cleveland Clinic suggest making your bed as supportive to your body as possible to prevent back problems. Chiropractor Andrew Bang, D.C., suggests that the optimal way to situate yourself is flat on your back and encourages the use of a tablet over a laptop. Giving further instruction, he explains, "Hold the tablet above your head and rest your elbows on either side of you." Using a pillow or headboard as support is discouraged as it runs the risk of putting increased strain on back and neck muscles.
Bottom line? It's best you head to your desk, table or standing desk when working from home. In fact, SleepFoundation.org recommends you save your bed for sleep and sex only. In addition, remembering to move throughout the day is an important way to prevent body pain from long periods of inactivity.