Health might start in your home, but with most Americans spending half of their waking hours at work, healthy office habits are crucial. From sedentary desk work to break rooms brimming with temptations, our workplaces need a healthy makeover. Follow these five strategies for healthy habits in your workspace:
1. Move the candy dish. According to one study, people with candy in or on their desk weighed at least 15 pounds more than those with a candy-free desk. Keep your desk stocked with healthy foods, and banish tempting treats. If co-workers tempt you with convenient treats, consider having a workplace discussion about banning free food that sabotages everyone’s healthy-eating goals.
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2. Brown bag it. Pack a lunch, and pack on less pounds. Food prepared at home tends to be lower in calories compared to anything found in a restaurant, cafeteria, or vending machine. People also tend to make healthier decisions when packing their lunches at home, on a full stomach. In contrast, when workers buy lunch on the go, while rushing between meetings and ravenous, they’re more likely to make snap decisions.
3. Hold mobile meetings. No, we’re not talking about cellphones. Whenever possible, put meetings in motion either in the office halls or around the block. Moving can actually stimulate brain activity, resulting in a more productive meeting. If you’re tied to a phone all day, pace while making calls. Even this small amount of movement can add thousands of steps to your day.
4. Uni-task. Our over-connected world takes a toll on stress levels, productivity, and health. The average smart-phone user checks his or her device every 6.5 minutes (or about 150 times per day), and it takes 67 seconds to refocus after every email. Give yourself permission to uni-task. Focusing on one task at a time, rather than multi-tasking, will instantly increase productivity.
5. Take five. When your mind feels unfocused and you’re tempted to dive headfirst into the candy dish, give yourself a five-minute break. Get up from your desk, and take a lap around the office or simply sit back and close your eyes. Focus on deep breathing to calm your mind.
