How to Stay Healthy when Working from Home

There are a lot of positives about working from home: you have more flexibility, you don’t have the stress of the daily commute, and you can pretty much work hours that suit you. 

But if you’re not careful, it can be easy to fall into bad habits, and before you know it, you’re feeling lonesome, you’re stacking on the weight, and your back hurts. 

How can you work from home and stay healthy?

Stay Connected to Your Colleagues

At first, people often find that working from home is great. You don’t have to put up with the office clown or be bothered by other people’s loud conversations. 

But connection is essential for humans. We are social animals, and you’ll soon be missing those office kitchen conversations, birthday celebrations, and work lunches. 

Schedule regular video catch-ups with your colleagues and maybe arrange a monthly coffee or lunch date.

Get Some Exercise

If you spend all day in front of the computer, you risk turning into a slob within weeks. 

Make time in your schedule for exercise. Go to the gym first thing in the morning or when you finish your work for the day. Get out for a walk or a run at lunchtime.  Take the dog for a walk or offer to walk a neighbor’s pooch. Good for you and great for the dog!

Eat a Healthy Diet

It should be easier to stick to a healthy diet when you work from home. 

Just be sure not to bring unhealthy snacks into the house, so you’re not tempted to grab a mid-afternoon candy bar. Keep a fruit bowl on your desk, and be sure to stay well hydrated. 

You can use an app to make sure you’re drinking enough water, or simply keep a water bottle or pitcher on your desk. Whenever you finish a sentence or send an email, take a glass of water!

Take Regular Breaks

When you’re working from home, there’s nothing to break up your day unless you make it happen. Set a timer, so you get up from your desk every half hour. 

Don’t eat lunch at your desk. Make yourself a proper lunch and eat in the kitchen or dining room. 

If you’re stuck on a problem, leave your phone and your laptop at home and go to a neighboring park or café. Have a coffee break and see if the change of scenery helps you work it out. 

Check out the free 7 Day Productivity Challenge

Sign up for the Work from Home online course