How to Stay Healthy at Work

How to Stay Healthy at Work

As the U.S. continues to reopen after the COVID-19 pandemic, American workers are beginning to return to their offices after working from home for the better part of a year. Still, even if you continue to work from home part-time, you might worry about many of the routine health effects that might arise from going back to the office.

Sitting at a desk all day might take a toll on everything from your posture to your blood pressure and staying healthy at work is important for everyone. By simply being conscious of wellness when working, you will often experience both better overall health and even be happier and more productive on the job.

Tips for Improving At-Work Health

If you have a desk job, then you are in a sedentary position most of the time. The lack of activity might eventually cause you harm. However, by simply being conscious of your own body, you can do a lot to maintain your well-being.

Here are just a few effortless ways to stay healthy at work:

• Bring your own lunch (and even breakfast) to work. This will reduce the frequency that you have to eat out. You can have control over preparation of your own, healthier food. Not only that, but you can also usually save money.
• If you need to snack at work, try to avoid sugary or carbohydrate-laden food. Try eating nuts, dried, or fresh fruit instead of sodas and candy bars.
• Drink plenty of water. Set milestones to monitor how much you drink throughout the day. Attempt to drink one 8 oz. glass of water by 10 a.m., another by noon and so on. You will be able to improve your hydration while avoiding sugary, unhealthy drinks.
• Keep a sanitary workspace (especially in these days of social distancing). Always wash your hands and clean up after yourself.
• Commit to time away from your computer. You need to give your eyes periods of rest after staring into lighted screens. For example, eat lunch and take breaks away from your desk. Read a book, meditate, or listen to music at this time.
• Take work breaks throughout the day, as allowed. This can reduce stress and help you focus on your work when you return. Many companies even require employees to take periodic breaks.
• Move around. For example, take time during your break to walk around outside or do some stretches at your desk. This can help improve your muscle tone and circulation.
• Consider enhancements to your desk like a standing platform or posture straightener. These mechanisms might help you remain more active and engaged in work.

If you try to stay healthy at work, you might lessen your risk for illness or other negative health developments like obesity, arthritis, or diabetes. This means that you are less of a risk in the eyes of your health insurer. You might even pay less for your coverage as a result.