With many recent studies suggesting that sitting at your desk for extended periods of time can have serious consequences, it’s not surprising that so many people are looking for office health tips. Unfortunately, many of the most common wellness tips for the workplace can seem a little out of reach for busy professionals who simply don’t have time to go to the gym every day. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of seven ways even the busiest employees can make some of the most common fitness truisms work, without damaging their productivity.
One of the most important—and widely overlooked—health tips for working professionals is just to get up and move! Being mobile is key to staying healthy at work. Remember that every little bit counts, even if you’re simply taking the long route back to your desk from the bathroom.
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Even though it may feel wrong to get up and leave a project partway complete, breaks will actually increase your productivity in addition to boosting your office health. Taking breaks minimizes eyestrain and computer-induced headaches, rejuvenates your mind so you can return to a problem with new energy and a fresh perspective, and prevents bodily strain from staying in one position for too long. It even decreases your stress levels, which benefits your immune system.
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As far as wellness tips for the workplace go, cutting the habit of going out to lunch may be the most difficult to comply with. Sticking to food from home means planning ahead, packing the food the night before (or in the morning, for early risers), and remembering to take the brown bag with you. Here are some ways to stick to home-prepped food without over-burdening yourself.
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Keeping your area clean is especially essential for staying healthy at work during the cold and flu season! When several people are in an enclosed space for significant amounts of time, germs will spread quickly.
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Find a workplace fitness buddy or two who will keep you on track and make the whole experience more enjoyable. No one wants to be the only person doing lunges in the break room or opting to stand rather than sit during meetings, so a partner or two can make your new routine a little less awkward.
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You probably know that experts recommend drinking eight to ten glasses of water per day. What you may not have realized is that staying hydrated will not only improve your physiological health, but will also help to push you over that midday slump!
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No list of office health tips is complete without a discussion of posture. Avoid unnecessary strain on your joints by restructuring your work area. According to Mayo Clinic, appropriate office ergonomics can save you from continued neck, back, wrist, and finger pain.
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The above list will help you jump-start your workplace wellness journey. Use these simple health tips for working professionals to keep yourself feeling good and functioning at your highest capacity. Good luck!