5 Ways to Avoid the Physical Side Effects
of Working From Home.
Make time and schedule your workouts
Workouts help you stay fit, and there’s no best time for a workout since it depends on personal preferences. Morning exercise helps you sleep better and keeps your mood-regulating hormones in check, so you face the day in a calmer and better mood. On the other hand, evening exercise is a great way to wind down after a long day and relieve stress. Regardless of when you choose to work out, even a daily simple five-minute routine is enough to improve your health. Find some time to squeeze it in, and your mind and body will thank you.
Ensure your workspace is ergonomic
An ergonomic workspace keeps you comfortable and prevents work-related strain and injury — effectively improving efficiency and productivity. A popular piece of ergonomic equipment is a standing desk, which boosts brain function and energy by promoting better blood and oxygen flow. Plus, it improves posture and reduces any aches from sitting for too long. On the other hand, if you want to use an existing desk you have, an alternative is a standing desk converter, which you simply put on top of any table. It can accommodate your laptop, mouse, and other desk essentials. This gives you all the benefits of a standing desk.
Stretch and take mini walks during your breaks
Of course, an ergonomic workspace and exercise can only do so much for your health. It’s also important to keep moving throughout your work hours. Try to schedule small breaks to stretch and get away from your desk, so you can get your muscles moving and your blood flowing. On top of this, breaks give your brain time to breathe and prepare you for your next tasks. It can be as simple as getting up to grab a quick snack or walking around the room while you take calls.
Invite people to virtual workouts
Exercising alone may be boring and not motivating enough for some, so why not invite friends or coworkers to work out with you? Exercising together through Skype or Zoom even just once a week can give you the feeling of accountability, so you’re motivated to push through with your workouts. You can have a shared workout plan or have a weekly challenge, such as who can do the longest plank. Moreover, seeing faces and hearing the voices of people outside your household can reduce the feeling of isolation.
Find time to go outside
If it's safe enough for you to go outside, then put on a mask, pack some water, hand sanitizer, and get out of the house. Whether you're going on a walk or simply enjoying the fresh air, being outdoors will give you some much-needed vitamin D. Most of all, it should give you some welcome respite from being holed up indoors. If you have a yard or garden, you can also just spend time there and reap some of its benefits.
Ruth James is a business consultant and part-time writer. Her spare time is spent contributing to blogs, tending to her small garden, doing yoga and caring for her grandfather who has looked after her since she was young.
