Practices for staying healthy at work

Employers are continuing to grow their wellness programs in 2017 and actively seeking to promote better health in the workplace. Healthcare reforms means that employers have increased health-related employee benefits by 58% in 2016. This includes an increase in wellness for employee programs by 45% from the previous year.

Maintaining a healthy balance in the workplace means fewer missed work days, improved productivity and decreased stress.

Manage stress properly

We live in a fast-paced working environment and can often feel overwhelmed with day to day pressures. With a potentially turbulent time in the economy approaching it can feel like companies expect employees to work harder with less resource. To work SMART and effectively it's important to manage high stress levels. Outside the workplace this includes investing time for family, hobbies, reading a book and taking care of yourself. In the workplace this includes setting priorities and goals for heavy workloads, meditating and taking time away from your desk for regular breaks. Off Limits Events have a number of mindfulness related stress buster workshops to teach desk, regular yoga, meditation and beginner massages. Techniques such as desk yoga and meditation can be used for reducing stress and applied to the workplace for teambuilding.

Eat lighter, healthy lunches

Plan meals for lunch. Take time out the night before to pack a healthy lunch for the following day. Include plenty of protein, lean meats, salad, fresh veggies to avoid that afternoon slump. The Balanced Bites session helps encourage employees to cook nutritious healthy meals and to work through healthy meal plans. Particularly with recent “workplace cake culture” reports taking over the news in recent weeks, it may be time to invest in lighter and healthier lunches.

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is crucial to productivity as it improves energy levels and will generally improve overall health. The 3 ‘o clock lull that many employees feel can be due to dehydration, it's important to keep a large water bottle at your desk. Drinking 8-10 glasses per day can keep you hydrated, other good sources of water include grapefruits, grapes, watermelon and apples.

Keep hand sanitiser on your desk

Taking time away from your desk to wash your hands can be tricky and it's understandable during the busy working day this isn't always possible. After coughing or sneezing immediately use hand sanitiser to avoid the spread of any germs.

Eat snacks rather than heavy meals

If you go several hours between meals blood sugar levels tend to drop and can lead you to grab the easiest, fast food snacks available. Keep a few healthy snacks at your desk for when you're feeling a little hungry. Try to avoid the vending machines and add a mix of dried fruits, nuts and yoghurts to your list of healthy snacks.

Take breaks and get some sunshine

It's important to get a daily dose of fresh air, even if it's a quick 5 minute outdoor break. Add some vitamin D to your day by having a break in the sunshine. Invigorate your day and take a brisk walk around the office building, plus it's a great time to meditate any relieve stresses. We have seen a growth in clients requesting outdoor team building events for delegates, to get out of the office and experience team building in the open air. It's a great way to boost skills in a fresh environment to educate, inspire and entertain employees.

Limit caffeine

You might love your coffee and rely on it to give you an instant boost but it's important to drink caffeinated beverages in moderation. Try your best to reduce your intake to one cup each morning to avoid the crash and burn. Perhaps try to drink your coffee without cream or sugar as it will definitely be better for your health in the long run.

Keep your workspace area clean

Yes it's gross but your desk harbours hundreds more bacteria than a toilet seat. Keep your work area tidy and neat, wipe down surfaces as often as possible to avoid the spread of any potential bacteria.

Sticking to a personal healthy balance will contribute to a happier environment, improved productivity and decreased stress. What better way to start the new year with a fresh start.

Do you have anymore practical tips for healthy and wellness topics in workplace? We'd love to hear from you on Linkedin or Twitter?