5 Ways to Stay Healthy When You’re Working From Home
It’s the dream of many to work at home. Getting out of a corporate environment and managing your own work day can have a positive impact on your health, stress-levels and work/life balance. However, it’s important not to neglect your physical well-being and to stay fit when working from home.
Get a decent chair
Investing in a decent office chair will save you pain, irritation and long-term damage to your back. A supportive, comfortable chair is a good investment. Once you’ve found a chair that supports your back, allocate an area of your home as your designated work space. Consider a standing desk or a treadmill desk to burn more calories and avoid the pitfalls of a sedentary life.
Have a timer
Set a timer and take a break at least every 90 minutes. Stretch, walk, or get out the house for five minutes. More importantly, take a break from your computer screen. Regular breaks will increase productivity and motivation and help clear your head.
Set Deadlines / Break Times / Rewards
Having pre-arranged exercise or break times insures you take time to move during the day. I always exercise for 30 to 60 minutes usually around 10 am. I’m awake and have done some work, but it’s still early enough that I have the energy to move. Exercise isn’t just good for your physical health, but also it wakes your brain and gets the creative juices flowing again. And give yourself rewards, such as meeting a friend for lunch.
Fidgeting
Fidgeting at your desk can actually help you burn calories while you’re working! Don’t be tempted to sit on a sofa or lie on your bed with your laptop. Instead sit at a desk and fidget while you work. If you find you are able to work at the same time, listen to some music to get your toes tapping.
Use your kitchen
Although you don’t want to be rummaging in the cookie jar every ten minutes, keeping your fridge stocked with healthy, fresh snacks is a good way to keep your energy levels up without resorting to sugar or caffeine. You have the time, space and resources to cook and freeze delicious home cooked meals so you have no excuse to be snacking on candy at your desk. Also, make a point of not eating at your desk. Meals should be taken away from work. Sit by the window, at the kitchen table or even outside if the weather’s nice.
How do you keep yourself healthy and fit while working from home?
