Wellness Tips To Maintain Mental And Physical Wellness While Working From Home

Mavis LUncategorized

Although it has been over a year since COVID-19 forced most companies to adopt working remotely, many employees still find it hard to find motivation and creativity when working from home. Although working from home brings about some levels of benefit and convenience to employees, employees are now faced with a unique challenge – staying productive and healthy, both mentally & physically. Today, we’re going to discuss what are some wellness tips that can help to combat this 21st century challenge! 

Step 1: Creating a Work Station (Away From Your Bed)

As much as working on your bed sounds like a really comfortable idea, don’t! Not only does this drain your productivity, it brings about a lot of posture issues either immediately or over time, which can also decrease your sleep quality. In extreme situations, it can also lead to musculoskeletal diseases. Furthermore, a separate working space also helps you disconnect at the end of the day. If your office is also the place where you sleep and relax every night, it will be difficult to establish a work-life balance. 

Instead, set up a work station in another room (if you have one), or at your living/dinning area. This will immediately make you feel more productive as a dedicated office space helps to avoid distractions and stay focused on the day’s tasks. Make sure your new workspace has natural light, all of your materials, and is away from too much noise. 

Step 2: Shower & Get Dressed Like You Would To Office

Have you been working in your pyjamas all day and feeling unproductive? Well, similar to the concept of working from your bed, it makes you too “chill” and decreases your productivity levels. Therefore, as much as it may seem tempting to work in your pyjamas all day, again don’t! We’re not telling you to be dressed in all suits and ties. Wear something that is both comfortable yet productive. A good guide would be what you wear for your dress down Fridays. 

Step 3: Get Active!

Now that you’re not commuting to work, the distance between your desk to your kitchen might just be the furthest distance you travel while working from home. And because of that, it is important to take regular breaks throughout the day to stretch and do something physical. This can be heading out to grab lunch, or even a quick jog! Increasing your blood flow and adrenaline will give you the energy you need to get you through the day. You’d be surprise how much stress a short physical activity can help alleviate.  

Step 4: Set Limits

Working from home has sparked multiple debates relating to the blurred lines between work and life. Due to the convenience that working from home brings, it’s not uncommon to see employees take night calls, and working long after working hours. To maintain mental wellness, it is important to set limits and end your working days as you normally would in the office. Keep track of your time to make sure you aren’t constantly working overtime unnecessarily. If need be, set an alarm to remind yourself that the working day has ended and tuck your working devices aside. Don’t bring them into your dinner tables, or your tv times. 

Step 5: Employee Recognition

With most employees working remotely and new challenges arising, companies need to maintain a positive work environment now more than ever. It is important to stay connected to your employees by checking in on them regularly to keep updated of how they are doing. You can also organise virtual team building activities to bring the team together to stay connected! Alternatively, offering wellness programs, and access to wellness resources is important for the success and productivity of the employees. 

Working from home is an adjustment. However, with the right attitude and mindful actions to stay healthy, it can be just as productive as working in an office.