Staying Healthy and Productive while working from home

Our lives have turned upside down and we are trying to create our new normal. Many of us are working from home for the first time. Some of us have to coordinate home school and work, and with all of this we are trying to stay active, fit and healthy

So just how do we assure we can continue to be productive at our new home office and not lose focus on our health? Below are tips to stay healthy and be productive from home.

1. Create your own Workspace

If you have a designate office already you are ahead of the game. If not, it is important to create a designated space that will be strictly used for your workspace. When choosing your space look for lighting, as well as a place that is clean, comfortable and quiet with minimal distractions. Let your family know this is your work office and this room is for you to designate your time to your profession.

It is also recommended to organize your office space with photos and greenery.

2. Schedule your day

If you were working in an outside office, typically you would have a set work schedule. The same holds true when working from home. Set clear work hours, when you will start and finish your day. It is also critical you organize your day – prioritize workload and create an outline of tasks to complete.

When scheduling your day be sure to include a break and lunch and assure you take your break or lunch away from the office.

3. Meal Prep

If we work outside of the home, we prep nutritious meals and snacks. Do the same while working from home. Stock your refrigerator with healthy snacks. Snack on yogurt and berries, or carrots and hummus, hard boiled eggs, and for lunch eat lean proteins and veggies! You will feel less sluggish if you fuel your body with lean proteins and healthy carbs such as whole grains, fruits, and fiber filled veggies

4. Schedule your workout!

A good workout session has many mental and physical health benefits. To assure you do not skip your workout – schedule it into your daily calendar and do not cancel on yourself.

Working out will reduce stress an increase your energy level. Schedule it first thing in the morning, middle of the day, or after work – it doesn’t matter just remember this time is as important as any other scheduled meeting you have on your agenda.

5. Drink Plenty of water

The goal is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water each day. Staying hydrated will help fight fatigue and headaches.

6. Take Breaks

Take mindful breaks. Every hour – stand up and take a deep breath. Walk around and stretch. These mindful breaks will help refresh the mind.

7. End the workday

When we work outside the home, we know the workday ends with packing up our belongings and heading home. However, when you are already home the line between work and home can blur. Thus, it is important to end your workday in a similar fashion- clean up your desk, close your computer and walk away from your designated work office. It may be good to take a walk outside or schedule your workout, so you refresh your mind and body.

You can be productive and stay healthy as you work from the comfort of your own home. Scheduling and organizing your day is key. Create boundaries to establish a healthy work- personal life balance.