Gaming can be fun and exciting or chill and relaxing, but gaming for extended periods can take its toll on your health. Hours of uninterrupted exposure to screens, bright lights, and not moving your body around are not good for you. Of course, you shouldn’t stop gaming, but you should know what you can do to stay healthy so you can continue enjoying your hobby for years to come.
Eat and Drink
When you intensely focus on anything, it’s easy to ignore all the other things you need, even food and water. It’s also much easier to reach over and grab a quick snack or soda when these are terrible for your health. When gaming, ensure that you’re staying hydrated with water, limiting sodas, juices, energy drinks, etc., and that you take a break to eat some good food. Junk food can only sustain you for so long, and ultimately it will adversely affect your body. Getting out of your chair and cooking something is a great way to give your body something nutritious while also getting you away from the screen for a little bit and onto your feet.
Eye Health
Your eyes are one of the parts of your body that you use most when you game. Typically, when you game, your eyes are open for extended periods and continuously looking at bright screens. Doing this without interruption can lead to eye strain, headaches, nausea, and even long-term eye damage. You need to take time away to look at natural light and give your eyes a break. Limiting screentime is one of the best ways to protect your eyes.
Take Breaks
Sitting still for an extended amount of time is not healthy, whether gaming or even working at your computer. You need to take regular breaks for your eyes and to get some good food and water, and getting up and moving around also helps your muscles and bones. Sitting still for too long can atrophy your muscles and even lead to blood clots. On the other hand, a short five-minute walk or stretch can get your circulation going again. This movement helps keep everything healthy and improves brain activity and cognition, boosting your gaming skills when you return to your chair for another match.
These were some quick tips for staying healthy when gaming, and they will go a long way. Games can be addictive, and it’s easy to sit for multiple hours straight without realizing it. If you want to stay healthy, take those regular breaks to get away from the screen and reorient yourself.
