Stream health: streaming, gaming, and everyday life
Taking care of yourself mentally and physically
Virtual worlds can be as immersive as they are enormous. Our in-game characters can travel vast terrains and battle hordes of enemies, all without needing food, water, or even sleep. Unfortunately for us mere humans, these are necessities we need to function.
Whether you’re streaming countless hours to entertain viewers, or just gaming on your own, always listen to your body. But what does that mean exactly? Well, here are some basic tips to maintain a healthy balance while still racing to stay inside that final circle.
Side note: All of this is based on my personal experience, so always take the necessary steps to make sure any health advice you take is right for you.
Food is Fuel
A common excuse heard around the world when it comes to eating right is “I don’t have enough time”. Being too busy to prep, cook, or simply get a decent meal leads to junk food snacking and a lack of proper nourishment.
Here are some healthy alternative options I’ve personally indulged in to keep me feeling great while manning the sticks. Keep these in mind on your next trip to the grocery store.
- Smoothies
- Simple salads
- Nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios)
- Yogurt
- Jerky (beef/turkey)
- Dark chocolate
- Hummus and pita chips
Of course, these are personal selections, but they are easy to make work for you. For instance, smoothies can consist of mixing various fruits for whatever suits your taste. Same with salads, there are a ton of variables you can mix-up, like vegetables, proteins, cheese, and more.
It’s good to be cognizant of what you are ingesting — moderation is key. There’s nothing wrong with having a sweet-tooth (or craving potato chips if salt is your weakness), but switching it up with healthier alternatives can be extremely beneficial.
Body and Mind
If you’re gaming or streaming, you’re most likely sitting on a couch or in an office chair. And look, trust me, I’ve tried to play lying down, standing up, upside down — you name it. Sitting is just the optimal way to stay laser-focused on the task at hand.
There’s a reason gaming chairs are growing in popularity — a good chair is one of the most important parts of your gaming setup. Always look for ones that offer plenty of support, comfort, and encourages you to maintain good posture — something that is constantly overlooked.
If you’re sitting for hours, you’re bound to slouch from time to time, so try and keep in mind these negative effects of bad posture:
- Soreness/pain (spinal, neck, shoulders)
- Poor circulation
- Fatigue
- Digestion
- Mood
It’s easy to lose time and while putting in long hours gaming, so put some sticky-notes on your monitor if you have to remind yourself how much bad posture it can affect your health in the long run.
Positive habits
What about life outside of gaming? The steps you take to stay healthy when away from the controller can help you stay in the game longer!
- Exercise — A little bit goes a long way. Even 20 minutes a day!
- Rest — Eye fatigue is real, especially focusing on screens, so give your eyes a break now and then.
- Get up — Get out of that chair and take a walk. Set a timer for yourself if you have to!
Compare your gaming habits to how an athlete approaches their sport. To perform at the highest level an athlete must prepare physically and mentally. Slacking in preparation and postgame can make the next round harder.
Keeping your body and mind healthy leads to positivity all around. It all starts with balance, moderation, and discipline.
Know thyself
Again, I’m no expert, and these tips are solely opinion based on experience. But I definitely have had my fair share of health obstacles which have caused me to switch up my habits. So whether you’re casually gaming, streaming for the masses, or challenging your friends on the couch, always be aware of your body and mind.
