This is part two of our series on ergonomic New Year's resolutions. You don't need to make large changes to create a more productive work environment this year. Implementing small, healthy work habits can make a big difference. Replace sedentary activities with active ones: instead of scrolling through social media, walk up a flight of stairs. Any new movement can help to combat tiredness, aches and a sedentary lifestyle, and it's the foundation of good posture and movement at work.
Switch It Up
Make time for new movements and activities. Don't get stuck completing routine movements that use the same muscles. Learn new stretches or try a new type of workout. While you're at it, check how you're sitting between tasks; these tips for improving your posture at work are a good place to start.
Spend Less Time on Your Phone
Instead of checking your social media profile during your breaks, get active. Replace sedentary activities with active ones. This will also give your eyes a break. Looking at screens all day can strain your eyes.
Find a New Skill or Interest
Another way to be more active is to practice a new skill or interest. Ride a bike, learn to cook, or garden. Any activity that gets you up from your desk, using new muscles and moving in new ways, counts. If gardening is your pick, brush up on healthy gardening techniques so your new hobby doesn't strain your back or hands.
Take the Stairs
Even if you don't need to leave your floor, walk or run up and down your office stairs. This is an easy way to get in more steps and increase blood flow. Try it out the next time you have a slump in your work day. It can give you energy and help you be more productive for the rest of the day.
Meditate
Take a break to clear your mind. A few minutes can reduce stress and improve focus. This is also a good way to be mindful of how your body is feeling. Any aches and pains can tell a lot about your ergonomic risk factors.
Be Active on Breaks
Use your breaks to add movement into your day. Stand up, take a walk, do some stretches. Anything to get your blood flowing and break a sedentary cycle.
Complete a Physical Challenge
Motivate yourself to get active throughout your workday by completing a physical challenge. Think outside of the box. Walk for 30 minutes every day, start a sit-up challenge or join a recreational sports team.
Take Stretch Breaks
You can stretch at your desk any time during your work day. Take a minute after you respond to an email or five minutes on your walk back from the water station. You can even stretch while seated at your desk. The important thing is that you do it.
Walk More
Incorporate walking into your everyday tasks. Walk across the office to ask a coworker a question, take client calls walking around the block or use the stairs instead of the elevator. All of these little walks can make a big difference.
Contact Us
Ergo Works in Palo Alto, CA is available for all of your ergonomic needs. We provide workstation evaluations, workshop trainings, on-site installations and more. Our team developed in response to the need for ergonomic workplace safety for heavy computer users. If your office is struggling to maintain a well-planned work environment, contact us.
