How to stay healthy while working from home

1. Eat well and hydrate

Home life can sometimes lead to snack overload. Keep it balanced by eating a variety of nutritious foods and limit foods high in saturated fats, salt, and sugars. Aim for plenty of fruits, veggies, and grains, plus two to three serves of lean meat and dairy.

Got a stockpile of canned and frozen veggies? Great! They’re just as good as fresh – but watch out for any added salt or sugar. Whip up smoothies with frozen fruit or toss canned beans into your meals.

Stay hydrated! Men need about 2.6 litres (10 cups) of water daily, and women need 2.1 litres (8 cups). Add some fruit slices or ice cubes to make it fun. If you’re exercising, drink more water. Sports drinks aren’t needed but can be useful for super intense workouts.

Treat yourself occasionally, but don’t let it become a habit. If you slip up, don’t stress—just get back on track. Find other activities to distract you, like calling a friend or spending time outdoors.

2. Move your body

No commute? No problem! Use that extra time to get moving. Try home workout videos that match your fitness level—whether you’re a newbie or a pro. Aim for 30 minutes of activity daily and mix in some strength training twice a week.

Crank up your favourite tunes to stay motivated but keep the volume neighbour-friendly. Dancing in your living room counts too—just get that body moving and have fun with it.

3. Keep stress at bay

Maintain balance by managing stress. Limit your news and social media intake—stick to positive vibes and reliable updates. Stay connected with friends and family through video calls and social media. A good chat can do wonders for your mood.

Set boundaries for work. Create a comfy, dedicated workspace and take regular breaks. Remember, work time is work time, and break time is for YOU. Treat yourself to a quick walk outside or a relaxing tea break.

4. Sleep well

Sleep is super important. Don’t let your sleep schedule go haywire. Adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Set a regular bedtime and avoid late-night screen time.

Create a sleep-friendly zone: no work in bed, no screens before sleep, and keep it dark and quiet. Try reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to music to wind down.

5. Practice good hygiene

Wash your hands often, especially before cooking and eating. Keep your kitchen clean and wash fruits and veggies thoroughly.

Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and veggies to avoid cross-contamination. Thaw food in the fridge and cook it thoroughly. Reheat leftovers until they're steaming hot.

By following these tips, you can stay healthy and develop great habits that will last long after you’re back in the office. Stay well and take care of yourself!