Hi all! This week’s Everyday
Living is all about staying healthy while working an office job. Let’s face it,
we know sitting in a chair all day is doing terrible things to our health.
Studies have linked long periods of sitting with increased risk of diabetes,
heart disease, and even cancer. According to an advisory from the American
Heart Association even those who exercise after work are still experiencing
the negative effects of sitting for long hours.
So how do we combat some of
these bad health effects but still do our job? I’m glad you asked!! I’ve pulled
together a few tips for us. Also here’s links to the full articles if anyone
wants to read more:
1. Eat breakfast.
This is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. A wholesome
breakfast can provide you with the energy you need to get through the first
half of the day, and it will help prevent you from consuming junk food.
2. Bring your
own lunch.
Restaurant meals often include large portions and high-calorie
choices. You can eat healthier and spend much less money if you prepare your
own lunch.
3. Drink lots of
water.
It's good for you, and it will keep your mind off soda or
coffee. It may help you fight off other cravings, too. Sleepiness is often
caused by dehydration, so keep yourself well hydrated. If you want some flavor,
put lime, lemon or cucumber slices into your water bottle.
4. Move as much
as you can!
Walk around the office and stretch every now and then. Take
breaks every hour or so and move your body. Use every possible opportunity to
burn calories. Move while waiting for programs on the computer to load. If you
need to discuss something with your colleague, go to his or her desk instead of
making a phone call or sending an email. Consider
teaming up with a friend at work to take regular breaks for exercise and to
motivate each other.
5. Stand as much
as you can.
This is healthier than sitting. It's better for your back, and
burns more calories. If you have a Standing Desk available to you take
advantage of it.
6. Have walking meeting.
Walk and talks have obvious benefits. Desk-bound office workers
can all use a bit more exercise. Sitting too much is killing us. Yet the
walking meeting’s upsides go far beyond the physical. Walking helps break down
formalities, relaxes inhibitions and fosters camaraderie between colleagues —
and less eye contact can fuel more personal conversation.
7. Boost
Your Immune System
Working in an office with many people will expose you to plenty of
germs you wouldn’t get staying at home or spending your days outside. It’s
important to keep your immune system in
top form. Eat nutrient-rich vegetables, get enough sleep each night and drink
plenty of water. Wash your hands regularly.
I believe that the greatest gift you can give
your family and the world is a healthy you.
-Joyce Meyer
Thank you,
Wenona Mertens
