Here in Canberra we have just finished our first full week of lockdown and it is looking like many of us will continue to work from home for a while.
Firstly I want to acknowledge all the essential workers who are still going into their workplaces to keep essential services going, keeping us safe, healthy and fed. We are grateful for all you do.
For those of us who are working, and potentially schooling, from home it is incredibly important that we all take care of ourselves during this time. Keeping connected, creating healthy routines and managing our stress is vital.
As you settle into your working from home routine, take a moment to consider what you can add in your daily routine to support your health and wellbeing. Here are some small adjustments or additions to your day that can have huge benefits:
- Schedule your 1 hour of exercise – we only get one hour outside the house to exercise each day, so blockout time in your day to get this exercise while the sun is out. When we schedule activities, we are more likely to complete them
- Keep a glass of water on your desk and refill it regularly – this will keep you hydrated, but when you get up to refill it regularly gives you added movement. We should stand up from our seated position at least every 30-40 minutes and this is an easy reminder or prompt to get up.
- Take stretch breaks – moving and stretching our body will help to counter the long periods of time spent seated and working on the computer. I like to stand and stretch while waiting from my online meetings to connect and I have rolled out a yoga mat next to my desk as a visual reminder.
- Have your coffee breaks away from technology, find a peaceful spot in your home or garden to enjoy the taste of your coffee, the feeling of the sun on your skin and listen to the sounds around you. By disconnecting from technology, you can reconnect with yourself.
- Have virtual breaks with your workmates – arranging a time to stop for a cuppa or lunch together as a team, just as you did while in the office. This keeps your connection and check in with each other.
- Place structure around your workday – this will help you to set and keep boundaries and have a separation between work and leisure. Maintain a regular routine of when you start and finish work and have a dedicated workspace, that once you leave for the day, can help you mentally switch off from work.
These are some ideas from me and you may have other ideas to support your wellbeing. Most important is that you find ways look after yourself and your loved ones.
Take care,
Jo