Sitting at the same desk in the same chair in the same position for eight to ten hours a day, five days a week can take its toll on you.
However, there is the potential for building some healthier habits into the time you spend at work. Level up your workday with one (or all) of these healthy habits:
1. Stand as Much as You Can.
Your body is built for movement, so cementing yourself to your chair for extended periods of time is physically and mentally tough. Try to stand as much as you can throughout the day. Even when you want to power through a project, make sure that you’re taking breaks to walk around. And if you happen to have a standing desk, still make an effort to walk away from your desk.
2. Get in a Work Out During Lunch.
What’s the best time of day to work out? The answer is up to you! If you have a hard time waking up early or motivating yourself to get to the gym after work, then your lunch hour could be a great solution. Breaking up your workday with a workout can give you something to look forward to and even make the second half of your day go by faster. If you can’t swing a group class, head outside for a twenty to thirty-minute walk.
3. Drink Water throughout the Day.
Your body needs water for so many vital processes, so if you’re not drinking enough water during the day, it can affect your body and your mind. Unfortunately, drinking coffee does not count as hydrating. So instead, show up for work every day with a water bottle and keep it close by. If you forget to drink from your bottle, set a timer on your phone to remind you. You’ll probably find that you have to get out of your chair frequently to either refill or use the bathroom.
4. Hold Walking Meetings.
If you have a meeting scheduled where you don’t need your computer or other types of technology, then hold a walking meeting. When the weather allows, head outside. Most people think better when they’re moving around, and it can be easier to share opinions and ideas without a formal face-to-face sit down.
5. Relax Your Shoulders Away from Your Ears.
Right now, relax your shoulders. Were they scrunched up by your ears? Throughout the day, we unknowingly tense our necks and shoulders. But when you become more aware of your posture and where you’re holding tension, you can make an effort to relax, breathe, and let that go. When you’re sitting or standing at your computer, let your shoulders settle down.
Are you ready to raise the bar on your health and fitness? Schedule your first free class at Rhapsody CrossFit in Charleston today.
