The first suggestion for you is to keep your cutlery sharp so that they require much less force to use. Force is an ergonomic risk factor and not only will reduce your ergonomic injury risk but because it's less likely to slip it will improve safety as well. Knives can either be professionally sharpened or you can purchase a stone or special tool to sharpen them yourself. It's also important to use the most appropriate tool for the job you're performing. This sounds obvious but one example is a whisk. This can mean for a much more efficient mixing process compared to a spoon with much less effort. Another example is a garlic press which would be much less work that chopping. Use powered devices whenever you can or whatever you can afford. An electric knife, for instance, will get a turkey carved quick and a food processor mixing literally a piece of cake. It also allows you to do multiple tasks simultaneously. Don’t forget about adjusting or using the ideal working height. Generally heavier tasks such as mixing thick batter by hand, rolling dough, or scrubbing a pot, are easier at a height that is inches lower that your standing elbow height. It is best to possibly work in the sink or at kitchen table for these tasks. More detailed work that required high visual acuity such decorating a cake or measuring out ingredients should be done at a height a couple inches above the elbow height. To bring it up to these heights, use a bar table or sit at the dining room table for these tasks. Improve lighting whenever possible since, poor lighting usually leads to leaning forward or slouching. Wear comfortable supportive shoes so that while you're moving and standing in one position in the kitchen area, you reduce leg fatigue. Consider using standing mats near the sink area or any other part of your kitchen you stand in a single spot. These are just a few of the many ways you can shield yourself from ergonomic related injuries so that you can feel like your best self during the holiday season. If you would like to learn more about ergonomics, reach out to one of the ergonomic consulting specialists with Ergobility today! Ergonomics is not only about reducing injuries but also helping you enjoy the things you are passionate about so you can be your most productive self.