Most of us want to age gracefully and live long lives surrounded by family and friends. That is an easily attainable goal if we take care of ourselves. To be sure, it’s easier said than done, especially with the sedentary lifestyle that many of us live. Most professional jobs don’t involve any kind of physical labor. The industrial revolution took us out of the fields and into the cities. Over time the physicality of work disappeared for many people. Now we are desk jockeys that only get activity at work when we walk to the bathroom or coffee pot. We’ve all learned the value of exercise and being fit, but it’s hard to do that at work while tethered to a desk. Here are some easy ways to stay healthy at work.
Walk Around Periodically
If you find that you sit at your desk for hours on end, stop. Sitting in one place, immobile for long periods isn’t good for any system in your body. It’s bad for your back, eyes, fingers, neck and everything else. Get up and walk anywhere in the office. Stretch out your legs and get the blood flowing again. Your work suffers, too, when you’re stagnant—after a while, you lose focus and concentration. A quick walk will help reset your brain.
Stay Away from the Snacks
Every day there is something to snack on at work. Many workplaces have free snacks available for employees, or there are vending machines full of chips and candy. Every day is someone’s birthday, so there are cake and treats to pass around. These are all wonderful gestures of appreciation, but they aren’t helping the waistline at all. If there isn’t fresh fruit or nuts to snack on at work, don’t. Only eat what you bring with you and keep the calories down.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to work and keep it full all day long. The average man needs 3.7 liters and the average woman needs 2.7 liters of water a day. The human body is 60% water, and we can’t live without it. Plus, those trips to the watercooler and bathroom will get you away from your desk and walking around.
Be Mindful of Ergonomics
Your posture at your desk has a big impact on your health. If you are stuck in uncomfortable chairs and workstations there will be a physical impact on you. Ask for adjustable desks and ergonomically correct chairs to ease the burden. Recently there’s been an increased focus on ergonomics and how it affects people in the workplace, and that’s good for everyone.
Let it Roll Off
There are going to be good days and bad ones, but never forget that it’s just work. Don’t stress about it, don’t fret about it, and don’t lose sleep over it. Whatever bad thing is happening right now will end eventually. Keep your mind right, and the rest will fall into line with it.
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