Those of us in the Northern Hemisphere are approaching autumn/fall and heading for winter. I recently talked about ways to stay healthy at work and wanted to talk today about ways to stay healthy at work in the winter, which can be more of a challenge!
Get Outside (Even If It’s Cold!)
It can be tempting to spend more time indoors as the days start to draw in in but getting fresh air and sunlight is vital for good wellbeing even in the winter. If your job involves being inside all day or in front of the computer, schedule time into your day to get out into the elements.
Eat Healthily
In colder weather it can be easy to comfort eat, especially when there is less need to worry about your ‘beach body’ but it pays to eat healthily and well. You will be glad you ate healthily in the winter when next summer comes around!
Slow cookers are one great way to prepare quick and healthy meals in the winter. They are great for soups, stews and much more! You can literally throw everything in a pot, leave it to cook whilst you are at work and walk in the door to the smell of a cooked dinner. Bliss after a long day at work!
Exercise
Keeping an exercise habit through the winter keeps you fit and healthy and builds up your immune system lessening the likelihood of colds and viruses. If you are working in an office or enclosed space with others, colds can spread like wild fire! Going for a brisk walk outside combines two ways to stay healthy in the winter season. If it is too cold outside, a gym or home exercise video means there is no excuse! 🙂
Hydrate
Most people are particularly aware of staying hydrated in the summer but it is equally important to stay hydrated in the winter too. Drinking a lot of caffeinated drinks can reduce your hydration levels so herbal teas are a great substitute or partial replacement. Even replacing a couple of cups of coffee a day with herbal teas can help your overall wellbeing. I find having a glass or bottle of water on my desk is a good visual way to remind myself to hydrate regularly.
Live In Harmony With the Seasons
Living in harmony with the seasons around us helps us to harmonise our natural rhythms and our energy and in turn keep our edge at work. Technology is a great thing in many ways but it also allows us to be ‘on’ 24 hours a day which contributes to stress levels. Our bodies close down earlier in the winter so listen to what you need and wind down earlier when necessary. If you work for yourself or are able to be flexible with your work patterns consider adjusting your hours to suit the season and daylight hours. It makes a big difference to your wellbeing and enhances your natural energy reserves.
Stay Safe
There have been a lot of extreme winters in many countries in the past few years. Staying safe and travelling only as necessary is important in these situations. If you encounter such situations where you live, see if you can negotiate a remote working agreement to keep yourself safe. Your job is important but so is your health!
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