Since the pandemic hit, for almost all of us, going into the office doesn’t even require heading out the door. Working from home can be beneficial in many ways, but it can also present several physical, mental, and social challenges.
Health tips for those working from home include wellness fundamentals, such as eating a nutritious diet and getting regular exercise. The abundance of alluring snacks in the kitchen, the lack of social stimulation, and the temptation to work in an ergonomically unsound position, like in bed, can all sabotage an otherwise virtuous worker’s best health intentions.
As the challenges of working from home may affect physical, social, and psychological health, it is beneficial to take steps to maintain all aspects of wellness. These may include the following.
Here are my top 6 tips for staying fit, healthy, and on task while working from home:
CARVE OUT A SEPARATE WORKING SPACE
Utilize space in your home that’s designated solely for work. Your bed activities should be limited to sleep only. Bringing in work materials can interfere with your ability to relax later on. Even if you live in a tiny space, set up a desk and chair and separate the professional from the personal.
STOCK THE KITCHEN WITH HEALTHY SNACKS AND MEAL
It can be easy to wander into the kitchen when you know it’s packed with treats, so keep temptation at bay by buying fresh fruits and vegetables, and keeping the candy and junk food out of sight.
KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED
Drinking enough fluids is essential for preventing dehydration, water is the best beverage choice, but drinking moderate amounts of coffee and tea is also acceptable. It is best to avoid sugary beverages, such as sodas, energy drinks, and fruit drinks.
PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Transitioning to a remote-first environment can take its toll on mental health and wellness. Without the physical separation of leaving home for the office, some people find it harder to disengage from work and take care of themselves. Meditate before starting and/or after completing the workday. Enjoy a hobby that requires physical engagement (e.g., yoga, painting, riding a bike).
STAY SOCIAL BUT FROM A DISTANCE
You may not realize the amount of face-to-face socializing that occurs in an office setting until you can’t do it anymore. Socializing is good for your mental health. It provides the opportunity to connect with others and helps prevent feelings of isolation. Look for new ways to stay social with friends, family, and coworkers — without being close to one another.
CONNECT AND CELEBRATE
Congratulate yourself and your colleagues for a successful work week. Schedule a virtual social hour on weekend nights. Or end your workweek by playing an online game with friends or colleagues. Working from home is an adjustment — for everyone. You’re not alone. Take time every day to care for your own physical and mental health. It will help you remain productive and healthy.
-By Aditi Gupta
Author’s bio:
A vivacious and lively girl living in Delhi, on her voyage for exploration of colours in life. A glimpse of what she does: Read, write, eat, Repeat!
