Ergonomics

When contributing to an open-source project, like other computing activities, the main risks are:

• muscle and skeleton impact
• mental health impact
• eyes impact

Workstation ergonomics

The first important point is the workstation ergonomics. You need to sit in a correct position, with correct placement of what surrounds you.

The NIH Office of Research Services maintains for their own use a comprehensive checklist of the points to check.

INRS also maintain such a risks list in French, with nice illustrations.

Whatever those positions, it's very important to move, not be too static. One of the best way to achieve that is to keep a physical activity on the side. Do also regular breaks to move.

Mental health

Frequent pauses are needed, 5 minutes par hour, to gain concentration back.

Research hints open-source maintainers are at risk for burnout. Some guides try to address this topic, for example https://opensource.guide/maintaining-balance-for-open-source-maintainers/

Eyes

When doing a pause, look far away from your screen (regarder au loin).

Consider to use blue light filter (software or screen hardware) after sunset.

Helpful software

Some software can help you to do break, move, improve eye health:

Stretchly. Open-source software - https://hovancik.net/stretchly/