... All About Ergonomics

The Webster's Dictionary defines ergonomics as follows; "an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely. — called also biotechnology, human engineering, human factors." In my own words; "coming up with habits to make your repetitive and prolonged movement to be as least damaging as possible."

I first learned the word while studying to be a dental assistant. I found my instructors placed this science high on the priority list as we were often docked marks for poor posture and lazy positioning. At the time it seemed a little excessive, but we soon learned that how our body is situated for a 3-hour dental appointment can have major effects on said body. From then on, I had respected ergonomics as a tool to help me as opposed to an inconvenience to slow me down.

Respected that is, until I became a mom. Maybe it's the desperation of trying to soothe a crying baby, or the joy of playing on the floor with a toddler. Whatever it may be, I have quickly come to realize that it can't outweigh the benefits of keeping ergonomics in mind. Now I'm not saying I believe we all need to sit up with our backs straight and chin up all day, regardless of what your little one is doing. I am saying, that when you do go to sit down, I highly encourage you to think about the actions you are about to do, for how long, and what that may feel like tomorrow morning.

I've had the sore back from carrying BabyK the wrong way all day, or the pins and needles from sitting on my feet too long. I can't say that the pain wasn't worth it. I can say however, it wasn't necessary. Lucky for me I have people in my life that are also aware of the benefits of proper ergonomic habits. It's good to be remined every once and a while by someone else who can see the way you're sitting, or holding baby that may not be helpful in the long run if repeated for long stretches of time.

Naturally, there are other areas of my life as MommyK that could use some human engineering tweaks. This blogging adventure for example was addressed by MommaK when she generously set me up with a wireless mouse and keyboard for Christmas (thanks, MommaK!). Yet, I can't help but feel an application to my Christian faith. "Spiritual ergonomics", if you will.

What habits am I creating and tools am I using to make sure my faith is not strained for long periods of time, or that unnecessary pain is felt? Some pain and strain is to be expected, after all, we still live on planet earth. However, I have found that when I am able to start my day reading the bible, I am able to gain a perspective that allows me to sit humbly before my God. And that is the best way to sit for any length of time.

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Micah 6:8

"And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."