Most of us spend the majority of our time at work, so how can we optimize our workspaces to best support our health? Here are seven positive changes you can easily make in your office space. Some of these might surprise you.
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1. Ergonomics and movement
Pain in your neck, elbows and/or wrists is a sign that your workspace can use an ergonomic adjustment. Make sure your desk, chair, mouse and monitor line up to create a natural position for your body while you work. Better yet, consider a standing or walking desk to stay more active during the day.
2. Optimize your lighting
The benefits of natural lighting in the workplace are proven and numerous. Working near a window has been shown to increase alertness, enhance work performance and even improve sleep. When natural light isn’t an option, a natural spectrum energy lamp, like a HappyLight®, can have a positive impact on your mood and energy at work while a natural spectrum task lamp, like a SmartLight LED desk or floor lamp, can help you see and focus better - while also reducing eyestrain. Lighting is a small change you can make to your workspace that can have a huge impact.
3. Add a plant or two
Not only do plants beautify your workspace, but they have also been shown to remove harmful indoor air pollutants, like VOCs, from the air. Adding one to your work area is another great way to bring the outdoors inside to create a serene and healthy work environment.
4. Put your favorite pictures on display
Having pictures up of loved ones can help us stay centered and more calm throughout the day. In fact, a Stanford University study found that people in love showed reduced levels of pain when they saw photographs of their partners. A framed photo of your significant other or of close friends and family can give you a much needed boost on a rough day.
5. Stock up on your own snacks
Having fresh or dehydrated fruit, nuts and other healthy treats at your desk can help prevent snacking on the unhealthy foods in the vending machine or your co-worker’s desk.
6. Make it easy to drink plenty of water
Drinking enough water daily can actually help prevent fatigue, especially in the afternoon. Keep a water bottle at your desk to help you keep track of your water intake. 32oz of water for the day is the recommended amount.
7. Get rid of the germs
Clean and disinfect your keyboard and mouse regularly. Studies have shown these items are some of the dirtiest surfaces in the whole office. A Verilux® CleanWave® Portable Wand is a great tool to have handy to quickly zap germs away.
