Summer might be a time for relaxation, but that doesn’t mean it should be a break from habits that contribute to a happy and healthy lifestyle.
Here are seven ways to keep healthy habits in the office this summer:
1. Sit up straight
Sitting can be a pain in the neck — literally. Sitting at your desk for long periods puts pressure on your neck, shoulders, and spine. Invest in a good ergonomic office chair with lumbar support and ensure it’s set to the proper height. Your feet should be flat on the floor, and you should be able to lay your forearms flat on the desk.
Maintaining good posture and stretching throughout the day can help offset this tension. You can research postural stretches to do from your desk. Make a conscious effort to improve your posture by taking notes and adjusting yourself if you realize you are leaning into your screen or hunching your shoulders.
Keep your computer screen at eye level and about arm’s length away from you. Use larger font sizes or display settings to avoid straining your eyes.
2. Bike to work
Trade in the car for your bike one day a week (or five!) and reap the benefits – health-wise and financially!
Riding a bike can reduce the amount spent on gas, car payments, monthly car insurance, parking, repairs, and maintenance.
With your commuter benefits program, you can add funds to offset the cost of bike repair and maintenance or participate in a bike-sharing program.
3. Go! Go! Go!
Get up and move, that is. Set a time to remind yourself to get up and stretch, do a few squats, or take a lap around the office. Even 5-minute spurts of movement or exercise can have significant health benefits.
4. Eat well
Hot dogs, cracker jack, ballpark peanuts, and carnival cotton candy; summer foods sure can be sweet! Make sure you don’t overdo it. Stay on track with your goals by using a fitness app or meal-logging app to keep yourself accountable.
Use meal benefits like Edenred’s Ticket Restaurant to help offset the cost of fresh fruit and veggies. With a prepaid card funded monthly with a meal allowance, this benefit can pay for meals during working hours at local eateries, restaurants, grocery stores, and through food-delivery apps.
5. Drink all the water
Hydration matters! Keeping hydrated helps you stay alert and energized throughout your workday. Many people aim to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, and the amount each person needs can vary based on the level of physical activity and the climate. Purchase a reusable bottle you can refill all day.
6. Go easy on the coffee (and other caffeine)
While we all rely on caffeine occasionally to stay focused or alert, the effects only last for a short while and can have serious side effects. Shakiness, restlessness, upset stomachs, or dizziness can all result from too much caffeine.
7. Challenge yourself
Take some time this summer to get outside your comfort zone. Use your Lifestyle Spending Accounts to take a new class at the gym, do some restorative yoga, or learn a new skill.
If you’re looking for creative ways to expand your employees’ office habits, Edenred is here to help. Book a meeting with us today to get started.
