For many of us, working hours dominate our week. Failing to integrate mindful practices into our professional existence can have a major impact on our health. Don’t sleep walk through the prime years of your life! A little motivation and direction can help you install the habits that are key to your vitality. Here’s the three best healthy habits for your work experience…
Stand: Sitting for extended periods of time is being compared to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. That should say it all! Our entire body is impacted from sitting too long. Our cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and metabolic systems all slow down due to lack of stimulus. Weight gain is coupled with an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Energy and brain function decrease while back, spine, and hip pain increases. Stand up for a minimum of fifteen minutes per hour, shooting to eventually reach 30 minutes per hour. Set an alarm on your phone. Get a standing desk. Take all of your phone calls while standing. Make it happen!
Food Prep: This is a must! The days of relying on quick grab options from the deli are over. Ordering lunch with your co-workers almost always results in French fries, sandwiches, chips, or pizza. If you want real control over what is going into your body (and ultimately your health) you have to practice a food prep system at home. The practice of preparing your own food empowers you to pass on all of the garbage temptations that come with the typical American work day. Be the one who passes on the candy and donuts. Be prepared!
Refresh and Reset: Staying locked into your computer for the day has a serious impact on your brain and ability to efficiently complete tasks. Give all all of your executive functioning skills a reset by getting away from your desk and moving around. Go for a ten minute walk outside and get some fresh air and sunshine. Have a conversation with someone about things that aren’t work related. Take advantage of your breaks by mixing up your stimulus. It will refresh and reset your mindset to get more done in less time.