How about this for a free email productivity hack? Breathing!

In all seriousness, there is a phenomenon called “email apnea” that afflicts 80% of us. Linda Stone describes how email and other screen-focused activities tend to compromise our breathing and reduce the quality of our attention.

The Connected Life: From Email Apnea To Conscious Computing

 

Definition: Shallow breathing or breath holding while doing email, or while working or playing in front of a screen.

While we have a greater tendency toward email apnea or screen apnea, while doing email and texting on laptops and smartphones, we are at risk for breath holding or shallow breathing in front of any screen, any time. Not only does this increase stress levels, it impacts our attitude, our sense of emotional well-being, and our ability to work effectively.

Why are we doing this? Our posture is often compromised, especially when we use laptops and smartphones. Arms forward, shoulders forward, we sit in a position where it’s impossible to get a healthy and full inhale and exhale. Further, anticipation is generally accompanied by an inhale — and email, texting, and viewing television shows generally includes a significant dose of anticipation. Meanwhile, the full exhale rarely follows.

Read the full article here.

Tags: Getting Things Done, GTD Times Team - Staff Contributors, Implementation, Inspiration //
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