There are a lot of great things about working from home. Your commute is much shorter, you can work in your comfy clothes, getting home on time is an absolute doddle and there is a fridge full of food just steps away from your desk!
However, there are a lot of things about working from home which aren’t so great. Many people really struggle working from home, finding themselves becoming lethargic and depressed as the days all blend into one. If this sounds like you, read on to find some ways of looking after yourself while you’re working at home.
Go outside!
Even when it’s cold outside, it’s important to try and get out each day if you can. Numerous studies have shown that being outside in nature can help to lift negative moods, improve stress, anxiety and depression and even help to boost your memory.
Going outside is also a great way to increase your consumption of Vitamin D. Vitamin D comes from sunlight, so in the winter months, many of us don’t get enough of it. Vitamin D is important for improving our mood and helping us to absorb other vitamins.
Try to get outside daily, even if it’s only for a ten-minute walk around the block. You’ll be surprised at the difference it makes.
Look after your back
If you’re working at home it can be all too easy to fall into the pattern of working from your bed, or from beneath a huge pile of cushions and blankets on the sofa.
While this is very comfortable, it’s not at all good for you back! Working slouched over like this, you will likely find that you start to experience discomfort in your back. The best thing you can do is work from a desk with a chair that provides proper ergonomic support. However, if you really do want to work from your bed or sofa you can help to support your back by using a ‘husband pillow’ which will provide your back and neck with the support that they need. Check out husbandpillow.com to see what they look like.
Stick to a routine
Even though you don’t have to be at the office by a particular time, and you could easily work in your pajamas, there are a lot of benefits to sticking to a routine. Having a good routine will improve your sleep, which in turn will help you to feel happier and more awake during the day. Your stress levels will be improved, and your overall health will benefit.
Try setting an alarm for the same time each day, ensuring that you shower and dress before you begin work, eat meals at regular times and make a point of going to bed early and relaxing.
Connection
Working at home can feel a bit lonely at times, and you can start to feel really disconnected from your colleagues. Making a point of catching up with colleagues to see how they’re doing will not only help you to feel more connected, but it can also be really beneficial for your mental health.
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