If you are among those who spend one third of their day in the office, your top priority should be creating a healthier working environment. Even though as an individual we have less influence on the changes that might happen in our offices, realizing that there is a potential upgrade is a first step. All that is left is doing those small things and bringing in those few changes that will create a healthy environment and a better office to work in. Here are the things you can do.
Start with the Chair
Even though there is no such thing as an eco-friendly chair, getting one that is comfortable and equipped with both adjustable height and arms is very important. Since you will be spending most of your office time sitting, you have to ensure that your body is feeling comfortable. Also, your arms have to be at a 90-degree angle while typing on the keyboard since you will be sitting in your chair with your feet flat on the floor. Straining over or stretching to reach your computer will put your body and spine in a stress-causing situation. Spending a few extra dollars now on a good chair is way better than than spending thousands of dollars later on a chiropractor.
Bring in the Plants
One thing you can do is bring a couple of plants to work and place them somewhere where they will get enough light. Plants do much more than simply look beautiful – they will clean pollutants from the air as well as many chemicals and turn them into harmless substances, they bring colors into your office and can fight the common high-tech illness. Bringing a few of these to your office will not disrupt your work; it will not invoke your boss’s rage nor harm anyone. It will improve your health and state of mind.
Improve Air and Water Quality
Indoor air quality is generally low all over the world, especially in office buildings. In addition to that, air conditioners are on all the time and that bad air just keeps circling around. By installing a simple air filter, you will significantly improve your productivity; once the brain has enough fresh oxygen, it can operate faster, perform more difficult tasks and let you focus longer. In addition to air filters, consider getting one of those efficient water filtration systems. These are eco-friendly and are a great substitution and way cheaper than any bottled water. Once you take care of the air filter and your water quality, it is time to move on to the next step.
Lighting
Studies have shown that natural light improves your productivity and reduces stress and fatigue. If you are trapped in 4 walls without a window, you have to talk to your boss about installing a window. Otherwise, you are good as long as there are windows that can be opened. Replace all the antiquated fluorescent tubes with full-spectrum tubes and you will enhance not only your productivity, but your health in general. Lighting is an important factor especially because it can improve your mood, ease your eye fatigue, reduce cortisol levels and generally slow aging of the retina.
Music is all you need
In the darkest times, the only salvation can come from good music. It has been and still remains the undisputed champion in many factors, and managing your emotions is one of them. All you have to do is find a music that does not disturb you and create a great working atmosphere with a smooth track playing in the background. When you are under stress, it will calm you, stimulate you mentally and affect your overall well-being. Music is all you need most of the time, and bringing it to work can be the best move you have ever made.
Add Breaks to your Working Routine
Every person needs a break from work, whether it is for a smoke or simply to rest your eyes and brain. Adding a few extra breaks might prove to be useful; eliminate stress and recharge your body by changing scenery and going out for a 10 minute break. Absorb the sunrays and take a few deep breaths. Clear your thoughts, your mind and once you go back in the office it will feel as if you are entering it for the first time.
Putting extra effort into creating a healthier environment is important for your general well-being and productivity. No matter how much money and hard work you invest, it will pay off very soon and reflect on your results. The path to good health starts by addressing your attitude towards it, and by adding a few changes you commit to a healthy life and better working environment.
