Since we spend so much of our time at work, it is so important to stay healthy while you are there. Many companies are slow to catch up with changing better health at work campaigns that are happening all over the world, so you need to think of a few changes that you can make yourself. Staying healthy means fewer missed health days, increased productivity and less stress. Here are a few of the ways that you can stay healthier at work.
Wash Your Hands Often
Hand washing is one of the number one ways that you can help prevent yourself from getting sick. When you are in a working environment that is particularly dirty, or one that that has a lot of people in a confined space, this becomes particularly important. Try to get yourself into good hand washing habits throughout the day so it becomes like second nature to you.
Clean Up Your Workspace
If you are an office worker, you will probably be alarmed to learn that the average desk harbors more bacteria than a toilet seat! Take some time out each day to organise your desk and then wipe everything down with sanitizing wipes. It also makes good sense to keep some anti-bacterial hand gel on your desk to help with the fight against germs!
Check Your Work Health Policy
Every workplace should have a policy that protects the health of its employees. Checking the steps that your employer makes is one of your rights as an employee. For example, you should be reassured that you are working in a clean environment and you are not under any unnecessary risk of something like asbestos exposure. If there is something that is ringing alarm bells, you should always speak up. Your health should be the number one priority while you are at work.
Drink More Water
Sometimes, people are so busy at work that they forget to even drink! Always having a water bottle nearby to your workspace should encourage you to stay hydrated, which is so important to your productivity, energy levels and general health. As well as this, drinking water helps you to stay alert and encourages clear thinking.
Eat Well
If you have a job that operates at the speed of light, you may well end up having a lunch that matches this lifestyle. Unfortunately, this often includes a lot of fast food or other meals that are easy to eat on the go. You should plan out your meals for the week, taking some time the night before to pack a healthy lunch for the following day. Lean protein, salad and fresh vegetables are all a good idea, along with fresh fruit to stave off the afternoon slump.
Stay Active
If you work in an office, it can be very difficult to find the time to stay active during the day. But sitting for long periods of time has been found to be detrimental to your health. Try to get up at least once an hour to have a brief walk around.