Looking after your physical and mental health can be challenging, with everything else going on right now. The obvious concerns at this time are fighting Covid-19, the flu, RSV and similar bugs. But while that’s critically important, it’s part of a bigger picture: keeping it all in balance. Doing so can be even harder if you’re working from home, as lines between working hours and free time may become blurred.
Here’s What You Need to Know to Stay Healthy at Work:
Put your own oxygen mask on first.
Take a look at which areas of your life need improvement in order for you to get – and stay – physically, mentally, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually healthy. While your first reaction to this concept may be, “I don’t have time! I’m already overloaded!” think about what every flight attendant tells you before takeoff: If those oxygen masks drop down from the ceiling and you’re traveling with someone else whom you need to care for, put your own mask on first. Because otherwise, you’ll be incapable of helping your travel companion.
In other words, make time in your schedule for healthy self-care habits. As best-selling author Eleanor Brown put it, “rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”
You are what you eat.
As noted by the Harvard Business Review, “it’s an action plan that makes healthy eating easier to accomplish.” (Hint: This applies to other areas of getting healthier, too!)
- Plan ahead for healthy meals and snacks, whether you’re at home or work.
- Make time each day for all three meals. Set a realistic limit to snacks, especially the less healthy ones.
You’ll boost your immune system, nourish your brain, and sleep better.
Night night. Sleep tight.
Speaking of sleep, shoot for seven to eight hours of it a night. This results in:
- A sharper brain: Sleep plays a big part in both learning and memory.
- Better moods: While you sleep, your brain processes your emotions. If you cut it short, you tend to have more negative emotions and less positive ones.
- A healthier heart: When you sleep, your blood pressure goes down.
- Better athletic performance: A lack of sleep robs you of energy and time for muscle repair.
- Steadier blood sugar: During deep sleep, your glucose level has a chance to reset.
- Weight control: You’ll be less hungry when you’re well rested.
Get moving.
Even a few simple changes can help you fit exercise into your already full schedule. Try:
- Parking farther away from work and walking the rest of the way. If you’re home-based, take 15 minutes to walk, stretch, or tune into a short fitness video.
- Using mutual motivation. Buddy up with a friend, family member or coworker to encourage each other and stay on track.
- Trying some of these workday tips.
The most successful journeys in life begin with a single step. So, even if you adopt just one additional healthy habit, you’ll be on your way to improved fitness and overall well-being.
As you self-reflect on what needs to change in your life, is your job part of the problem? If you need additional guidance in finding the most satisfying career opportunity for you – whether it’s in your current role or elsewhere – consider partnering with PrideStaff Fresno. Read our related posts or contact us today to learn more.