When trying to improve productivity, looking after health and well-being is just as important. Proactively looking after health and well-being makes it easier to deal with and take on the different challenges faced each day.
Be active
- Fresh air and exercise are vital for well-being. Being active can help to relieve stress and have a positive impact on depression and anxiety. However, working from home can reduce activity levels and staff are often more sedentary when compared to working on-site
- Setting reminders or alerts can help to provide cues to get up, stretch and walk around when working from home. In addition, consideration could be given to using the time saved by not commuting to go out for a walk, bike ride, run or complete an exercise class
Learn more about being active from our Pilates videos:
Eat
- Working from home provides a great opportunity to eat healthy and balanced meals that can be prepared fresh every day
- There are strong links between what we eat and how we feel, with the brain needing a mix of nutrients to stay healthy and function properly. Don't forget to include treats as part of a healthy balanced diet
Sleep
- Sleep helps to regulate mood and behaviour. Changes to routine, such as switching from working on-site to working at home can impact on routine and sleep patterns
- Try to maintain a regular bedtime and add in some time for relaxation before bed. Most importantly, do not work in bed
Stay hydrated
- Drinking enough liquid helps to keep the brain from having to struggle against the effects of dehydration, which enables it to think more clearly. Keeping a bottle or glass nearby can help provide reminders to drink regularly throughout the day
Take time to look after yourself
- Be conscious of your own mental health and be kind to yourself. It can be easy to get caught up in your busy work or personal life and caring for other people
- Build in some "me time" to do something you enjoy. Taking time out for fun and participating in something that you enjoy doing is good for emotional well-being
- Don't forget to book in regular annual leave breaks
