Stay Healthy At Work With These 10 Tips
10 Tips to Stay Healthy at Work
The average workweek can leave people both physically and mentally drained. Unfortunately, it can also make them less healthy, thanks to prolonged sitting, standing, and nutritional traps which can lead to weight gain. If you think your job may be compromising your health, learn some simple ways you can stay healthy at work.
Take a Nature Walk
According to a study appearing in the journal Psychological Science, subjects were able to improve their working memories by 20 percent by taking a 50-minute nature walk. Our working memories play a crucial role in work-related activities. By combining exercise with peaceful natural surroundings, researchers believe workers are able to improve circulation, while also disengaging from traditional office environments.
Surf the Web
Researchers at the National University of Singapore found that ten minutes of recreational web browsing actually boosted work-related productivity by reducing mental exhaustion and boredom.
Create a Mini Gym at Work
You can improve your health and mental well-being by doing some simple exercises around your office. A few lunges, push-ups, or squats can make a noticeable difference in the way you look and feel, especially if you can establish a daily routine. You can also replace your chair with an exercise ball to promote better posture and keep your abdominal muscles tighter.
Prioritize your Posture
Bad posture can have serious long-term effects. To promote better posture, sit closer to your desk; keep your monitor at eye level; place your keyboard in a comfortable position; and sit with your legs flexed at a 90-degree level, while placing your feet flat on the floor. Above all else, focus on maintaining good posture until it becomes a habit you no longer need to think about.
Pack a Lunch
With vending machines, on-site restaurants, and in-house stores, modern workplaces are chock full of temptation. Before you head to work, pack a healthy lunch and a few snacks, such as almonds, raisins, and other types of dried fruits. This will ensure that you always have a smart option available when temptation strikes.
Stretch
Get up out of your chair and stretch as much as possible. This will improve your circulation and help prevent back problems.
Wash your Hands
According to a report from the American Dietetic Association, 6 in 10 American workers eat lunch at their desks. Unfortunately, the average work area is riddled with bacteria that can make you sick. Use good hygiene and wash your hands frequently to reduce the risk of illness.
Avoid Eye Strain
Don’t keep your eyes locked on your computer screen for extended periods of time. Take a few moments to look away and focus on something in the distance. You can also increase the font size on your computer to see how your eyes respond.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress
Studies have linked stress to all sorts of physical ailments. Fortunately, you can drastically reduce stress by taking a few moments at the end of each day to plan your schedule for the next. You’d be amazed at how much better you feel knowing you have all your ducks in a row for the coming day.
Keep Moving
Prolonged sitting has been linked to a myriad of health problems. Unfortunately, prolonged standing can also cause problems, such as back and knee pain. Our bodies are meant to move, so it’s important to take periodic breaks involving some type of physical activity. This may include stretching, brief exercise, or simply walking down the hall to deliver a message instead of sending an email.
