Mental health is an integral part of our overall wellbeing, shaping our emotions, thoughts and interactions with others.
Working from home? It’s the perfect time to ramp up your self-care game!
Here are five top tips to help you stay healthy both mentally and physically 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!
This blog article was supported by AI generation and, while intended to be helpful, should not be relied upon as individual health advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making health decisions. The accuracy, completeness, or recency of the information cannot be guaranteed, and we cannot be held responsible for any loss incurred from acting on this information. Content developed in partnership with Health and Wellbeing Queensland.
Information source: https://hw.qld.gov.au/blog/how-to-eat-more-vegetables-these-school-holidays/