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Simple Tips For Workplace Wellness

Most of us nod knowingly at the statement that work is only a part of our life and not the whole life. But with the world becoming increasingly information-driven, the workplace has become a big part of our lives, with most of us spending a major chunk of our time at the workplace wellness. This brings to the fore the intrinsic element of wellness at the workplace. When we say wellness we mean going beyond the measures of keeping off diseases and injuries, but instead focusing on boosting the overall health of everyone that includes physical, mental, and emotional. Hence, regardless of whether the office is at home or one has to drive there to another location, deploying these useful and simple tips goes a long way to enhance the productivity of the employees and improve their work quality.

Tips For Workplace Wellness

1. Prioritize Movement

One common consequence of modern working conditions is physical inactivity, which is one of the critical threat factors to people’s health. Staying for long hours in front of a desk causes several health complications such as back aches, bad posture, and other health complexities such as heart complications and diabetes. Trying to weave in physical activity into your day at work, wherever possible can be very helpful. Here are some ways:

• Take Regular Breaks: Sitting is the new smoking. Try to use a timer to be aware of the need to at least stand up and move around every half an hour. A five-minute walk around the office, and several stretches, can help relieve some of that tension and improve circulation.
• Incorporate Desk Exercises: Some of the exercises you can do are leg lifts, seated twists or shoulder rolls. They are beneficial in decreasing stiffness and keeping the muscles active.
• Use a Standing Desk: It is preferred that you should occasionally get up from sitting and stand for some time during the day. With the help of a standing desk, you put less stress on your back and improve your posture.

2. Optimize Your Workspace

The physical environment is a critical component of your overall health and work output. A cramped or ill-designed workplace has its demerits that lead to stress, fatigue, and reduced productivity. Here are ways to enhance your organizational arrangement to improve wellness:

• Ergonomics Matter: All employees at the workplace must have a chair, or desk that is ergonomically constructed to minimize bad posture. They should be able to view the screen at arm’s length and the chair should have back support that follows the concave curve of the spine.
• Declutter Your Space: Clutter in the workplace frustrates workers therefore, the work environment should be clean and free from clutter. It is equally important to minimize clutter on your desk; one should have only the necessities on the desk and the remaining files and supplies should be arranged in an orderly manner.
• Personalize Your Environment: You can incorporate pictures, flowers, or many other things into your working space, which helps you to feel better. Research has established that plants help to cut down stress and enhance output.

3. Mindful Eating

The meals you take during the working day determine your energy levels and ability to focus on work.  Conscious consumption of food is a practice of controlling what to eat, the portions, and the effects of food on one’s moods and thought processes. Mindful eating includes:

• Planning Your Meals: If you have healthy meals and snacks prepared in advance this will discourage you from running to the vending machines or the fast food joints for a quick bite.. Eat a balanced diet with vitamins and mineral-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins.
• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps in avoiding fatigue, headaches, and reduced concentration. Ensure that you have a water bottle at your workstation and try to take adequate water in a day.
• Avoid Multitasking While Eating: Consuming food while seated at your computer or while at work results in overeating and causes digestive problems. Make sure you eat lunch peacefully without the distractions of the phone or laptop.

4. Manage Stress

Another obstacle is stress, which has a detrimental effect on an individual’s well-being. It is therefore crucial to learn how to manage stress and boost well-being at the workplace.

• Practice Deep Breathing: Breathing exercises soothe the nerves and decrease stress in the body. 
• Take Short Breaks: Take a few minutes off work and clear your thoughts. Be it a short walk, meditating, or going to a window for some fresh air. 
• Set Boundaries: Separate your professional and personal life to avoid burnout. This means that the office work stays at the office after work hours no matter how important it is.
• Foster Positive Relationships: Workplace relationships can have a positive bearing on your health and well-being. Friendship with co-workers increases morale and productivity.
• Communicate Openly: In any workplace, communication plays a crucial role. Demonstrate professional courtesy with fellow workers, as well as with superiors, show appreciation, and participate in team activities. If you feel saturated with work, it is always good to consult with a psychologist or a coworker. It is common for many organizations to have EAP that offers counseling services to the employees.

Workplace wellness means the promotion of health and an organized, healthy approach in the workplace in addition to the well-being of the employees. Adopting these tips ensures that you and your employees are happy and enjoying their work daily.  As people say ‘Every little counts’ It only means that the change begins today. Prioritise wellbeing at work and those around you as well will be grateful.