Working from home can have a lot of benefits, such as avoiding long commutes, spending more time with your family, and being able to work in your pajamas. It can feel like a great way to have more control over your life and your work.
However, it also comes with some drawbacks, such as the temptation to spend too much time on the couch, being less productive because you’re not in an office environment, and gaining weight from all the snacks you have around the house.
To counteract everything that might be making you feel less than healthy, here are the top tips and tricks you can use:
1. Get up and move around every hour
Even if you just walk around your house or do some light stretching, it’s vital to get your body moving when sitting in the same position for a while. This will help improve your circulation and reduce developing blood clots. So, set a reminder on your phone or computer to get up and move every hour!
2. Go on frequent breaks
Although it’s essential to be productive when working from home, you must also take breaks. This will help you avoid burnout and stay fresh throughout the day. Make sure to step away from your work area and do something else, even if it’s just for a few minutes. For instance, you can take a quick walk around the block, make yourself a cup of tea, or call a friend.
3. Take care of your mental health
Working from home can sometimes be stressful, especially if you’re not used to it. Make sure to take care of your mental health by meditating, practicing yoga, and reading. You could also try to connect with friends and family members online or absorb some sunlight every day.
4. Eat healthy snacks
When you’re working from home, it’s easy to snack on unhealthy foods. However, eating nutritious snacks is essential if you want to stay healthy. Try to avoid processed foods and stick to fruits and vegetables instead. So, every time you’re itching to reach for the potato chips, grab an apple instead!
5. Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is essential when working from home, especially in the summer. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and keep a water bottle near your work area. If you struggle to drink enough water, try adding some fruit or herbs to flavor it. You could also set reminders on your phone to drink water every hour.
6. Get enough sleep
Working from home can sometimes make it challenging to stick to a regular sleep schedule. However, it’s essential to get enough sleep to stay healthy. Make sure to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. You should also avoid working late into the night, so set some boundaries for yourself and stick to them.
7. Limit your screen time
Between working on your computer, watching TV, and using your phone, it’s easy to spend a lot of time in front of screens when you’re working from home. However, you should take breaks from screens and rest your eyes. If you suffer from severe screen fatigue, you might want to consider wearing blue-light blocking glasses. Or, you could consider LASIK surgery if you want a more permanent solution.
8. Invest in a good chair
When you’re working from home, it’s crucial to have a comfortable chair. This will help reduce the amount of pain you experience in your neck, back, and shoulders. Investing in an ergonomic chair is a good idea, but you can also use a pillow or blanket to support your back.
9. Create a set routine
It’s essential to create a routine for yourself and stick to it as much as possible. This will help you stay organized and productive when working from home. Include things like eating meals at the same time every day, going for a walk each morning, and spending a certain amount of time on work each day.
10. Take care of your office environment
Although you’re working from home, it’s still essential to have a designated work area. Make sure your office is well-organized and comfortable, and free of distractions. This will help you stay productive and focused when you’re working.
11. Experience nature
Whenever possible, try to get outside and experience nature. This can help reduce stress levels, improve your mood, and increase your energy levels, even if it’s just for a few minutes. So, take a break from work and go for a walk in the park, or sit in your backyard and enjoy the sun.
Working from home definitely has its benefits, but it also comes with drawbacks. However, you can try to stay healthy while working from home by following these tips. So, give them a try to see how they work for you!
