How To Be Healthier, At Work!
Maintaining a good work + life balance is so important for your health. Being active daily is such an important part of your life as well. Being able to move our bodies is something we should be grateful for daily! Part of the reason why I love my job so much is because I get to see people moving and getting stronger daily. But, I know that for many of you, though, the 9-5 working week involves being in an office environment, which is most of the day.
One of the difficult things about working in an office job is that you are more likely to be inactive at a desk, which is something that could have a negative impact on your health in the long run. By following these simple health tips, you can help reduce negative health risks and work towards being healthier during your work week!
STAY ACTIVE. Set an hourly reminder to stand up and move! Get up from your desk and walk around the office, make some coffee, use the bathroom, go for a stroll at lunchtime, just move. Trying to move your body regularly can help combat some of the negative effects of sitting down for most of the day at work. A great goal is to try to walk at least 10,000 steps a day so this is something that you can aim for. However, if you currently only do 2,000 or 3,000 steps, aim to just add an extra 1,000-2,000 and then go from there. Every little but help.
STAY HYDRATED. Water is life! Sometimes we get so engulfed in our work we may forget to drink our H2O! Try keeping a large water bottle at your desk that you regularly drink from AND refill. Set a reminder. Another option could be to keep a small glass at your desk and then go fill it up every hour. This is a win win because you drink water and get your steps in!
PLAN YOUR WORKOUTS. I know for me, this is super helpful. On Sunday, I plan my workouts for the week so they are scheduled ahead of time, like an appointment. Find day and times that fit into your schedule or that you enjoy working out and stick to it, even if its 10, 15 or 30 minutes.
PACK YOUR LUNCH. I cannot remember the last time I bought lunch out. One thing that became a habit of mine, was to pack my lunch. Not only does it save me some money, but it helps keep me on track and feeling good. It’s a lot easier to reach for unhealthy food at work when you’re hungry and unprepared! Try to pack your lunch every day, rather than eating out on your lunch break. You’ll know exactly what is in your meal because you made it! And if you like to snack, it could also be useful to prepare some healthy snack options to take to work.
BE VOCAL. Let everyone know your health and fitness goals, this will help with accountability and committing to yourself. Be your own health advocate and allow others to motivate, encourage and help you. When friends, co-workers and family know you are trying to form new healthy habits, they will likely remind you of them or join you!
Xoxo, MK