Your Office Needs A Cleanse
A productive employee all day keeps the boss away!–– Many of us work remotely these days which can be beneficial if we create a healthy work environment. From upgrading gadgets to simple decorations, these are ways you can improve your office and your health:
1. Soft Light Desk Lamp
Open your blinds and let the sunlight flood through the window! Exposure to natural light has positive effects on our health and well-being. If enough natural light isn’t available, a lamp that omits a warm glow will help brighten the room gently. When your screen is your main light source in a dimly lit space it can cause eye strain and headaches.
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2. A Yoga Mat
A few stretches throughout your day can do wonders for your body. Having a yoga mat in your office is an easy reminder to have a quick break to stretch your limbs and back. It’s equally as beneficial to use the mat for a cat nap or a few minutes of meditation for your mental health.
3. Adjustable Desk
An adjustable desk or stand is worth the investment. Everyone knows by now that sitting down all day is horrible for your posture and overall health. A desk that moves you from sitting to standing at your leisure is an ideal solution. You can choose the appropriate height for your size to prevent you from hunching or any other discomfort.
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4. A Whiteboard Or Bulletin Board
A whiteboard or corkboard on your wall lets you brainstorm or manifest off-screen. You can use these handy boards for multiple purposes. Pin up inspirational imagery, use dry-erase markers to jot down ideas and to-do lists, or organize your paperwork–– the wall is your oyster.
5. House Plants
Make your office a greener space with some potted plants. Adding foliage to your room filters the air you breathe and brightens the space. Plants have proven to help folks manage stress and productivity. It’s beneficial to bring a little nature indoors when you’re stuck inside.
6. Infuser Or Scented Candles
Spark up a natural candle or an essential oil infuser and breathe in their therapeutic scents. Even if you’re skeptical about aromatherapy, filling your environment with fragrances you enjoy will only have positive effects on your mood. Certain scents can calm you down while others might fuel your energy–– a win-win for a happy worker.
7. Second Screen
Whether you need a second monitor or not depends on your job but in many cases, the additional screen is life-changing. For instance, it can be helpful to organize your workflow with separate browsers or to share a PowerPoint while having a video call. Anything to help our visibility or productivity is better for our overall health as we work.
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8. Multi-Plug Charger
A tangle of cords around the office is an eye sore and a tripping hazard. A multi-plug charger keeps all your electrical devices plugged into one source for your convenience. One main power outlet keeps everything close and eases your accessibility.
9. Artwork & Photographs
Make it your own by decorating your office with art and decor that you love. You’re going to spend a lot of time in there so you might as well make it visually appealing. Frame photographs with happy memories or hang prints or paintings by your favorite artists. The more you fill your workspace with things you like the more enjoyable work will be.
10. A Good Speaker
Pump up the office volume with your feel-good tracks. A good quality sound system is beneficial for several reasons. Certain music and sounds can help your concentration so the better you can hear, the better you can focus. If you’re on calls without headphones, quality speakers make conversations easier to listen to while having control over the volume.
11. Noise Canceling Headphones
If you share your home office or living quarters with other people you understand why noise-canceling headphones are beneficial when you’re on a conference call. If you live next to a city street or noisy neighbors, these headphones will help block out sound distractions, keeping your mind at ease.
12. Comfy Desk Chair
A comfortable and supportive desk chair is crucial to your overall health. You’re likely sitting in that chair for hours so the more support you have for your back, the better it’ll be for your whole body. You’ll feel less like a pretzel after standing up from your desk after a long day and prevent a sore bottom. Specialized pillows are also available to help with back and shoulder support.
13. Helpful Organizers
Declutter your office with organization aids and furnishings. Tuck away items in drawers or cupboards when they’re not in use and clear your desk top with a handy desk organizer. Your workflow is enhanced when your things are accessible and easy to find. Studies have shown that a tidy space is better for your mental health as well.
14. Good Ventilation & Temperature
When an open window is not an option, make sure you can keep your office at a pleasant temperature. If you run on hot you should consider a fan or if you tend to shiver, you should have control of the thermostat and a fluffy blanket on hand. A comfortable temperature and good air quality are important environmental features for your well-being.
15. Office Layout
Consider the layout of your office when you arrange the furniture. You may want your desk to face the window rather than your wall or you may want enough space to move around easily. Experiment with the placement of your office furniture until you create a pleasant space for your sight and mobility.
16. Vertical Mouse
Do your digits a favor and don’t get trapped with a bad mouse! If you frequently use a computer you may want to consider a vertical mouse. The design of this mouse was created to help prevent hand soreness and carpal tunnel syndrome. High-five to hand health!
17. Quench Your Thirst
A simple way to improve healthy habits at work is to invest in proper beverage vessels. If you’re not great at getting your eight glasses a day, a large water bottle with measurement intervals may be a good option. A motivational mug might boost your mood during an afternoon slump or an insulated bottle might encourage you to drink more water. Do whatever you can do to keep hydrated while you work.
18. Set Reminders
You can set reminders on your phone or purchase a separate alarm clock for your office. Either way, setting a few reminders throughout the day keeps your health on track. You can manage stress with alarms that remind you to take a break or prepare for an important meeting.
19. Lounge Space
If the space is available to you, create a cozy corner! A space in your office where you can kick your feet up gives you a break from your desk and a change of scenery. A chair with an ottoman or a small couch gives you additional comfort for your workplace.
Cathal Mac an Bheatha on Unsplash
20. Helpful Smartphone Apps
Download apps on your phone to improve productivity or enhance your office experience. Whether you connect your smart devices to voice activation or use a day planner app for your daily schedules, find the right apps that work for you. Let the convenience of technology improve your home office and your well-being.