How To Make Office Breaks Healthier

Sticking to your healthy lifestyle while working in an office seems to be a contradictory idea. If you want to age beautifully and gracefully, then incorporating a healthy lifestyle is a must. Unfortunately, as the adage says, “It’s easier said than done.” However, you do have options to make this happen, such as eating SnackNation healthy office snacks instead of munching on junk food while working.

It may take time and effort to practice getting used to healthy eating habits in the workplace because you likely have the tendency to rush your break, or forego eating altogether because of your workload. You may not even have time to prepare your office snacks, but thanks to technology, you can order from websites such as HeyYou Sydney and have food delivered to you directly and conveniently.

Here are more strategies and techniques that you can do to make your office breaks healthier than before:

1. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule

Working in an office and having your eyes fixed on the computer monitor for an extended period can lead to eye strain, as well as severe back and neck pains.

To prevent this from happening, you need to practice the 20-20-20 rule, wherein you take a break every 20 minutes and shift your attention 20 feet away from your computer screen for at least 20 seconds. This is a simple exercise you can do on your office chair for a healthy and productive workday.

Don’t forget as well to mind your posture in order to encourage proper blood circulation. Bad posture like slouching can cause backaches and neck pains, so always make it a point to sit up straight when you’re working on your computer.

2. Take The Stairs

More often than not, there isn’t enough space in an office to exercise during your break since not all workplaces can afford to install an exercise room. To compromise, try taking the stairs during your break. Walking up and down a few floors can get your blood flowing, which would make you feel less lethargic or tired. If your office has a cafeteria downstairs, take the stairs going there instead of the lift. You can even do some breathing exercises when going up and down the steps.

3. Drink Lots of Water

Water is good for your health as it helps keep you hydrated, and clears out the toxins in your body. Instead of opting for sugary beverages like soda, drink water instead. Sugary drinks can only get you so far during the day before you start to feel the crash. Drinking water doesn’t have this kind of effect, and it can even help you have healthier, glowing skin. Here are some more benefits you can get from drinking more water:

  • Increases our brain power
  • Provides more energy
  • Elevates our mood
  • Enhances our cognitive skills
  • Enhances our memory
  • Boosts immune system
  • Prevents headaches
  • Prevents backaches
  • Prevents bad breath

4. Cut Your Caffeine

Coffee is a staple beverage during office breaks, but too much of it can also be harmful to your health. According to the Mayo Clinic, excessive caffeine intake can lead to side effects, such as nervousness, restlessness, irritability, stomach upsets, palpitations, and even muscle tremors. While there are numerous health benefits that you can get from drinking coffee, anything taken in excess will naturally be bad for your health. Caffeine is not only found in coffee but also other drinks and food, such as waffles, syrups, soft drinks, and jelly beans. Cut down your caffeine intake to manageable levels during break times.

5. Initiate An Office Workout Practice

If your company does not provide any health facility or if your office has no stairs, then initiating a workout during break times is a fun alternative. There are easy and fun office workouts that you can do on your desk such as stretching, reaching, and bending. You may also jog in place, do squats, wall push-ups, or simply walk around. You can do it alone or with your colleague and other officemates. This practice will not only encourage healthy living, but it also promotes your relationship with your co-workers. Having such activities can help strengthen your connection with them.

The Bottom Line

Having a healthy lifestyle while working in an office is not an easy task. You have to actively pursue a healthy lifestyle so as not to neglect your well-being even while you’re busy accomplishing your tasks during work hours. Keep these tips in mind for a healthier experience during your break hours in the workplace.