For the average person, a good portion of the day is spent at work. Whether your work environment is indoors or outdoors, quiet or loud, sedentary or always on the move... you're going to be there for a good chunk of the day you so want it to be a place you can feel healthy and happy. Here are some of our tips on ensuring a healthy workplace.
Pack a healthy lunch, and eat it on time
Too often, people get caught up or too busy at work and either disregard eating lunch completely or eat lunch when their day is practically over. Be sure follow a consistent lunch schedule. Lunch is an important meal of the day because around lunchtime you will probably already be feeling a bit sluggish. Reenergize your body and mind with a mid-day meal to keep you going for the remainder of your work day. If you need to, keep a healthy snack nearby for when you need that extra bit of energy during other times of the day.
Keep your work area clean
When you get too caught up or busy at work, not only are you more likely to skip or postpone your lunch; you are also likely to forget about hygiene safety. How many different things do you touch throughout the work day? From a computer keyboard to a door knob, it is unavoidable that germs are everywhere. Make sure to wash your hands regularly and disinfect your computer, phone, and desk periodically. By not keeping a clean work space, you will be making yourself more susceptible to illness (and we all know how much of a hassle it is to be sick for work). Be sure to practice clean habits in your workplace to avoid these things altogether.
Get up and move.
Keeping your legs well circulated will also help to keep your body and mind energized and healthy throughout the work day. Be sure to get up every 30 minutes or so. Take a walk around the office, walk to the printer/fax machine, or get up for a drink of water. Sitting for a long period of time can put your leg health at risk and will also cause you to feel more fatigued during your work day. You may also try doing simple leg exercises while sitting or standing for energy and good circulation or at least stretch your legs out often to keep your blood flowing. Especially if you’re one of many who have swollen ankles at the end of the day, take that as a call for help from your legs. When your legs aren't circulated enough throughout the day fluid and blood gradually pool in your ankles resulting in this swelling. Take care of your legs by stretching or exercising them throughout the day or by wearing a pair of compression stockings to help promote circulation.
Work takes up a lot of our time. Don't let yourself get so caught up or busy with work that you forget to take care of yourself during the day. Keep your mind sharp and your body energized with these tips and you'll notice a more pleasant work day (it may even go by a bit faster).