Even though the pandemic is dwindling, it is still very prominent in our professional and personal lives. Most of us are still spending a significant amount of time at home. As a constant travel bug, staying put has really taken a toll on my physical and mental wellbeing. So, whether you’re working from home, you’re homeschooling or you’re venturing out less due to restrictions, it’s important to prioritize your mindset and health.

During my time at home I have found a few things that have helped me when I feel down, misguided, or overall unwell. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy at home. 

Getting comfortable at work

If you are like me, you have swapped offices for spare bedrooms and dining rooms. If you’re working from home, it’s crucial to ensure that you are comfortable. Your posture should be a priority, particularly if you are prone to back pain or you spend long periods of time sitting at a desk. I created a comfortable workspace for me. When it comes to office furniture, anything that’s adjustable is a win.

I have started paying more attention to my posture recently because I have started noticing some back uncomfortability. It is important to keep your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed when you’re at your desk. I’ve considered consulting a chiropractor about my spine.

It’s also beneficial to take regular breaks, stretch your legs and give your eyes a rest from staring at the screen to stay healthy at home. 

Making exercise part of your daily routine

Getting into a routine is incredibly helpful for people trying to adapt to working from home. As well as establishing core hours for work, it’s also beneficial to get into the habit of taking time out every day to move your body. Whether you have a Peleton or a treadmill at home, you follow workouts online or you get out of the house to go for a jog, a walk, or a bike ride, you’ll feel much better if you exercise regularly. Physical activity boosts physical health, but it also increases energy levels, reduces stress and makes you feel good. 

I make it a point to go for a walk in the mid morning hours as well as in the mid afternoon hours. Just a little walk down the block can be very beneficial and keep you focused!

Eating well

Eating well is important for several reasons. Firstly, your body relies on you to provide it with sufficient fuel and energy to get through the day. I’ve incorporated a hefty amount of vitamins and supplements for optimum health and immunity. Eating healthy foods can have a positive impact on your skin and hair and it can also be incredibly enjoyable to cook for yourself and eat a delicious meal. When you’re planning menus and writing lists for the next grocery store visit, stick to your list, but add ingredients that provide nutritional value. Cut down on unhealthy snacks and foods that are full of sugar and saturated fats. *cough cough* Put the Oreos back!

Try to prepare meals that will fill you up so that you don’t resort to snacking and grazing. Good examples include eggs, avocado, and wholemeal toast, oatmeal and whole-grain cereals for breakfast and brown rice with lean meat or vegetables, or a healthy wholemeal salad wrap for lunch. 

The pandemic has caused many of us to give more thought to our wellbeing and staying healthy at home. If you’re working from home or you’re spending most of your time at home, there are some very simple ways to protect and enhance your mental and physical health. Try to move more, create a comfortable workspace and adopt a routine that enables you to make time for regular breaks and focus on nutrition when planning your weekly menu.