Stay healthy while you work

Feeling tired, disorganised, anxious or tense in the workplace? Then try these 10 ways to make your work day healthier!

Have a healthier work day, tip 1: Declutter your desk

A clean, uncluttered working space is far more conducive to a productive day than a desk piled high with files, dirty mugs and scraps of paper. Depending on how bad the situation is, put aside five minutes to an hour (or even a whole day, if possible!) to clear up your desk, wipe your keyboard clean and organise your files and papers. You'll feel a lot more clearheaded when you do so, and you won't constantly be igniting stress levels by having to look for important things that have disappeared under the rubble.

Have a healthier work day, tip 2: Go green!
Certain plants can help absorb the pollutants emitted by office carpets, MDF, paint and anti-stain treated fabrics such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichorethylene. Spider plants, peace lilies, golden pothos and goosefoot plants are all effective varieties. Also, fresh-cut flowers brighten the office and therefore brighten your mood! and can help to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air.

Have a healthier work day, tip 3: Take a break

Chiropractors recommend getting up to stretch and walk around at least every 40 minutes to prevent joint pain, muscular tension and eye strain. It's also good for your productivity: breaking a long spell of concentration by changing position, taking a few deep breaths and focusing on something else for a moment can help to recharge you for the next bout of work.

Have a healthier work day, tip 4: Get ventilation

Many of us don't have the luxury of working next to an open window especially as some companies prefer to keep the windows firmly sealed and pump the place with air conditioning! But if you do have the choice, work in a well-ventilated area with as much natural light as possible. If your options are limited, though, install a plug-in ioniser to help improve the air quality. Ionisers are available from department stores and larger chemists. Also, ensure you get out of the office for at least 20 minutes every day, regardless of your office set-up.

Have a healthier work day, tip 5: Pack your lunch

It's not impossible to get healthy snacks and lunches in the deli or cafe, but the temptation to go for a mayonnaise-laden sandwich can be quite strong after a stressful morning! The cost of regular trips to the nearest coffee house or pastry shop can add up, too. So, try to take a packed lunch instead of buying your lunch. However, if a packed lunch doesn't appeal (perhaps you like to eat out with colleagues or friends), you could still stock your desk drawer with healthy snacks such as dried fruit, nuts, apples and pears, rice cakes and crackers. You could also take your own non-caffeinated tea, coffee or herbal tea supply.

Have a healthier work day, tip 6: Switch off

Don't leave computers, faxes, phone chargers and photocopiers switched on all the time all electrical equipment emits electro-magnetic fields, and there is some evidence that these are linked with sub-optimal health and conditions such as insomnia, headaches and anxiety. Also, you should make sure you switch things off anyway if you don't need them for long periods, as it can save on the company's electricity bill (or yours, if you work at home!).

Read more on realbuzz.com...
Five best snacks to eat at your desk
10 ways your job is bad for your health
Follow realbuzz on Facebook