Working from home is great, but all that sitting can do your body and mind a right turn. Staying active isn’t just about dodging health issues, it keeps your mood up and stress down. Exercise makes you happier and sharper, and let’s be honest, sitting around all day is a recipe for tiredness. Get moving and you’ll have more energy, sleep better, and even avoid backache from hunching over your desk. Staying active is basically an investment in feeling brilliant, both physically and mentally. So let’s explore some practical tips to stay active while working remotely!
1. Schedule Breaks and Set Timers
Our bodies weren’t built to be glued to chairs all day. Long stretches sitting down can lead to all sorts of health problems, so whack a timer on to remind yourself to get up and move around every twenty or thirty minutes. Do some stretches to loosen up your muscles, take a lap around the house, or even do a quick burst of jumping jacks or squats. Whatever gets your blood flowing!
2. Make Use of Your Lunch Break
Your lunch break is another golden opportunity to get your blood pumping. Don’t waste it scrolling through endless social media! Take a brisk walk or jog outside for some fresh air, join an online fitness class for a more structured workout, or if you have a gym membership, pop in for a quick sweat session. Even half an hour of exercise can make a massive difference to your energy levels and how you feel overall.
3. Take Walking Meetings
Meetings don’t have to be a sit-down affair, either. If you’ve got a call that’s more of a chat or brainstorming session, why not take it on a walking meeting? It’s a brilliant way to multitask and get some steps in at the same time. Just find a quiet area where you can hear and be heard properly.
4. Stand Up and Work
Thinking about investing in a standing desk or a converter? This allows you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. Standing helps your circulation, stops your back from getting sore, and burns more calories than sitting. But remember, ergonomics are key! Make sure your desk is the right height so your elbows are bent at a ninety-degree angle when you stand. Wear comfy shoes with good arch support, and consider using a footrest to ease pressure on your lower back and legs.
5. Mind Your Posture
Last but not least, good posture is important, whether you’re sitting or standing. Keep your shoulders back and relaxed, don’t slouch, and make sure your lower back has a natural curve. Adjust your monitor so the top of the screen is level with your eyes, and take regular breaks from typing to stretch your hands, wrists, and arms.
