Most people have to work full-time – eight or more hours a day – to pay their mortgages/rent, purchase food and care for other personal obligations. However, even though full-time employment is a must for a large percentage of the population, there is no denying the mental and physical consequences of a long, 40-hour work week.
Whether you sit at a desk or stand on your feet all day, you may feel tired and stressed at the end of the day. Sure, going home and getting a good nights sleep can recharge your body and brain, thus preparing you for the next day. However, you might develop physical issues that aren’t easily fixed with rest. Maintaining your health is key to getting through each day, thus increasing productivity.
Here are four ways to maintain your health on the job.
1. Maintain proper posture
Sitting at a desk for long periods every day is a welcome mat for back problems. This is primarily due to poor posture, as many people slouch as they work. Fortunately, there are simple ways to improve your posture.
Purchase an ergonomic office chair from Sitbetter and relieve pressure on your mid and lower back. These chairs come in a variety of styles, and they are great for your home or office. Additionally, you can improve posture by sitting close to your workstation. Sit with your legs at a 90-degree angle and keep your feet flat on the floor. Make sure your eyes remain leveled with your computer monitor, and keep your shoulders back to avoid slouching.
2. Maintain proper lights
Dimmed or low lights may create a relaxing atmosphere, but this doesn’t help your eyes. If your work area doesn’t have adequate light, you may strain to read documents. This puts added pressure on your eyes. The more you strain, the greater your risk for tension headaches. Tensions headaches feel like a tight band around your head, and these chronic headaches aren’t easily relieved with over-the-counter medication.
3. Take frequent breaks
This tip doesn’t suggest goofing off at work. However, taking short ten-minute breaks every couple of hours can reduce a variety of work-related ailments. For example, if you sit at a desk all day, rising and pacing the room for a few minutes can reduce backaches. And if you work at a computer all day, giving your eyes a break can reduce eye strain and headaches. There is also a lower risk for carpal tunnel syndrome when you take frequent computer breaks.
4. Use sanitizer throughout the day
Colds and the flu can spread like wildfire in a confined space. To protect yourself from germs, infections and virus, keep a small bottle of alcohol and sanitizer near your workstation. Use these products once or twice a day, perhaps after someone uses your phone or keyboard. This reduces your exposure to germs, which can significantly lower your number of illnesses.
Your job doesn’t have to be an occupational hazard. Besides, the less you work, the less you earn. For this matter, be proactive and take steps to maintain your health at work.
Photo by JAXPORT
