Let’s face it, most of us are stuck at a desk for most of the day. And while sitting at a desk doesn’t sound like it would be that bad for you, the truth is that it can be detrimental to your health. According to research, sitting for extended periods can contribute to health problems like obesity, heart disease, and even depression. These are very serious issues you can avoid with simple changes to your daily habits.
So here are a few tips on staying healthy even when you’re stuck at a desk all day.
1. Get up and move around every hour or so.
We know it can be tough to tear yourself away from your work, but getting up and moving your body every once in a while is essential. Take a walk around the office, do some stretches, or get up and walk around for a few minutes. Your body will thank you for it. Many people even set a timer to remind them to get up and move every hour or so.
The Pomodoro technique is an excellent way to incorporate this into your day. This technique involves breaking down your tasks into 25-minute chunks and then taking a 5-minute break after each chunk. This not only helps you stay focused and productive, but it also gives you built-in movement breaks throughout the day. You can use an online timer or even the built-in timer on your phone to ensure you stay on track.
2. Take care of your eyes.
Staring at a computer screen all day can be hard on your eyes. Make sure to take regular breaks from the screen and give your eyes a rest. Try to look away from the screen for 10-20 seconds every few minutes and focus on something further away. This will help reduce eye strain and prevent headaches.
People with vision problems may also be at a greater risk for eye strain. If you have any vision issues, consider visiting an optometrist for an eye exam and get the appropriate corrective lenses if needed. If you don’t want to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses at work, other options, like orthokeratology lenses, temporarily reshape your cornea for clearer vision. The device uses a special lens worn at night and removed in the morning to help correct vision problems without needing glasses or contacts.
3. Make sure your chair is at the right height.
This one might seem small, but it’s essential. If your chair is too high or too low, it can strain your back and neck. Many people also don’t realize that they should tilt their chair slightly forward to help keep their spine in an upright position. This helps reduce strain on the lower back and makes it easier to sit straight.
Investing in an ergonomic chair can also be beneficial if you’re stuck at a desk all day. These chairs are designed to provide the best possible support for your spine and help keep you comfortable while you work. You can even find chairs with adjustable lumbar support if you need extra lower back support. They may be a bit more expensive, but they can help you stay comfortable and healthy in the long run.
4. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Dehydration can lead to fatigue and even headaches, so it’s important to make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Invest in a good water bottle and try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. You can also add some fruits or herbs to your water for an extra flavor boost. Employees who have access to a fridge can also keep their water bottles cold for an extra refreshing pick-me-up.
Some companies offer free sparkling water machines or even flavored waters to help keep employees hydrated. If your workplace doesn’t have one, maybe you can suggest it to your boss! They’re easy to install and maintain, so they could be a great addition to the office. Just make sure to check with your boss first before making any changes.
If you’re stuck at a desk all day, there are still things you can do to stay healthy. These tips will help you stay energized and productive while reducing the strain on your body. Make sure to take regular breaks, look away from your screen from time to time, adjust your chair to the right height, and stay hydrated throughout the day. These small changes can make a big difference in your overall health and well-being.
