Working in an office might sound easy. After all, it’s just sitting at a desk all day, right? But many people don’t realize that office life comes with its own set of health challenges. From sitting too much to feeling constantly stressed out, office work can take a toll on our bodies and minds.
The good news is, with some simple changes, we can keep ourselves healthy and happy in the office. To avoid getting sick and losing valuable work days, you can stay healthier and be more productive. In this article, we will go over several ways to maintain your health when working in an office.
1 – Make the workspace ergonomic
One of the first things we should consider when thinking about our health in the office is the way we set up our workspace. This is called ergonomics. Ergonomics is about designing a workspace so it fits you and the tasks you do.
First on the list should be getting a good desk chair. It’s where you’ll spend most of your day, so it should support your lower back and allow your feet to rest flat on the ground for pain-free sitting which you can learn more about here.
The height should be adjustable, and it’s even better if the backrest and armrests can be adjusted too. When you sit, there should be a little space between the edge of the chair and the back of your knees.
Next up is choosing the right desk. It should be at a height where your elbows are at a right angle when typing. This means you won’t be reaching too high or too low, which can lead to strain over time. Your computer monitor should be at eye level so you aren’t looking down or up all day.
2 – Keep moving
Sitting for long hours can be tough on your body. In fact, prolonged sitting is often linked to various health issues. Our bodies are built to move, and staying in one position for too long can lead to decreased blood circulation.
Thankfully, there’s an easy way to counter this. Schedule quick breaks to move around. Even when we’re swamped with work, there are simple desk exercises and stretches that can help. Try stretching your arms, rotating your ankles, or doing some gentle neck movements.
3 – Maintain a good work-life balance
Just as our bodies need care in an office setting, so do our minds. One of the most important aspects of improving mental health at work is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. You can be committed to your job and still make sure that you are not overworking so you can stay healthy.
After work hours, make it a habit to disconnect from work and engage in activities you love. This clear division helps in mentally detaching from work pressures and allows you to fully unwind.
And when it comes to vacations, embrace them fully. Even a short amount of time off provides a break from routine, giving your mind a chance to rest and come back even more focused.
