Did you know August is National Wellness Month? Even though September is knocking on our doorstep, wellness is something to be practiced all year round, and not just confined to one month. In the workplace, fall and Q4 tend to be some of the busiest times of the year, and it's more important than ever to take time for yourself. Here are four tips for practicing workplace wellness in August, and every other month of the year.
1. Get Out of Your Chair
Did you know that there are many health risks associated with long periods of sitting? Obesity, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high body fat are all associated with spending too much time in a chair, according to the Mayo Clinic. Look for a workspace that provides the option to use a standing desk or an office that is big enough to roll out a yoga mat and do some movement.
While sitting can sometimes feel like the only way to get work done, start small and challenge yourself to take one call while walking a day or to get up and stroll around the office every hour. Trust us, your body will thank you!
2. Build Healthy Habits
Wellness is built through little healthy habits that stack up throughout the day. Start with a protein-packed breakfast in the morning to provide the energy you need for the next eight hours. Keep yourself full all day long with a hearty lunch (bonus points if your workspace is next to some great fast-casual restaurants) and these snacks.
Outside of food, fuel your body by adding quick fitness exercises in between meetings and projects. Making slight adjustments to your schedule can have a big impact. Challenge yourself to bike to the office or walk to the metro instead of driving, swap out your usual meeting for a walking one, or block out time on your calendar to take a proper 30-minute lunch break without your laptop. No matter what your schedule is like, there is a way for everyone to add elements of wellness to their workday.
3. Use PTO
Utilize your paid time off and other sick days to relax and recharge. A simple staycation can have the same effect as an exotic getaway. Consider taking the time to catch up with friends, have a “life admin” day (taking care of errands, appointments, etc.), or simply do nothing. Plus, in a shared workspace, you are able to take time off guilt-free, without worrying about what is going on at the office.
4. Practice Self-Care
Self-care does not always have to be a luxurious to-do. At work, self-care looks more like taking small moments for yourself during the day to reset and prevent burnout. If you don’t take care of yourself, then who will? Click here for seven easy ways to implement elements of self-care into your workday.
Wellness at work should never be limited to a month or time of year. Feeling good enables us to be our best selves in the workplace. An unhealthy lifestyle can permeate every aspect of our lives, and it is essential to not let work get in the way of our well-being. Promoting wellness year-round is easy when you are in a workspace that supports your goals and values! At AdvantEdge Workspaces, clients have access to workout spaces, green areas, and full-service lounges. Come check out how you can level up workplace wellness with AdvantEdge!
