Most of have experienced major changes to our daily routines and exercise levels. So it is not be unusual to feel new or old aches and pains or stressed, anxious or low. So we’ve got some hints and tips to get you through:
1. Ergonomic workspaces
If you are working from home, make sure your workspace is set up as ergonomically as possible. Raise your monitor so that the top of the screen is at eye level, preferably with a separate keyboard and mouse on a surface immediately in front of you, roughly at elbow height. Ideally choose a suitable chair with back support –– you may find it more comfortable to place a cushion or lumbar support in the small of your back.
2. Take a break
Working from home or not, it could be
very easy to sit down for long periods and
no matter how well your workstation is set up, there is no such thing as the perfect sitting posture. So be sure to get up every hour, even if it’s just to stretch off/make a drink/take a comfort break. Set a timer or alarm to interrupt you so that you don’t lose track of time.
3. Daily exercise
Many of us are finding new ways to keep fit, exercise or generally stave off boredom. Walking, running and cycling are simple options, but there is also a wealth of online exercise classes available on platforms such as YouTube – try searching for yoga or Pilates workouts. Joe Wicks’ (The Body Coach) YouTube PE classes have become especially popular.
Remember with any new form of exercise – build up slowly!
4. DIY fitness
Likewise with the new found time for DIY & gardening projects – build up gradually and mix up jobs to avoid repetitive strain.
5. Routine meal times
With more time spent within reach of our fridges and stock cupboards, diet and eating habits could all too easily slip. Keep to regular mealtimes and resist the urge to raid the fridge. If self-discipline is not your strength, try low-sugar alternatives to your favourite snack.
6. Mind over matter
Combat this stressful situation and find time for those little moments of joy: get in touch with family and friends, play games, read a book, grow some vegetables, learn a new recipe or skill. Slow down and reflect.
7. Up and at ‘em
Create and stick to a daily routine. Set your alarm and get on with the day. Get dressed so you’re not tempted to spend all day in your pyjamas, otherwise your day can easily slip and leave you feeling low.
8. Sleep hygiene
Stick to a regular bedtime and give yourself time before bed without your laptop or phone. Avoid this potentially slippery slope to keep your body clock happy.
9. Vitamin boost
Give your immune system a helping hand; eat plenty of fresh fruit and veg, particularly those high in Vitamin C. You can also order vitamin supplements online.
10. Safety First
It is good to get out responsibly for some fresh air and exercise. Nonetheless do weigh up the risks of certain activities such as cycling or going up ladders as you don’t want to find yourself in A&E. Be sure to wash your hands after a walk if you have been touching communal surfaces like gates. Life is most definitely on a best endeavours basis at the moment. If even with exercise and a sensible routine in place you find yourself struggling, please do get in touch.