Saturday, February 5, 2011

Desk job? Stay active and alert all day.

I’ve spent the last 13 years sitting at a desk working on a computer for 8+ hours per day experiencing monotonous days, cravings for naps and even headaches due to eye strain. Sound familiar?

It’s important to boost your energy throughout the day no matter how full your email inbox. Trying these ideas will help rejuvenate you and keep your energy up throughout the day. Taking time to do these activities will make you more productive in the long run.

I actually do all of these things - give it a try!

Tip: Leave your desk once per hour. Get a glass of water or instead of sitting in meeting rooms, take a walk and discuss topics.
My personal comment: This forces me to drink more water and helps burn an additional 100 calories or so throughout the day.

Tip: Move your eyes away from the computer periodically. Your eyes will get used to looking at the screen up close. Over time, your long-range vision can deteriorate because you are so used to looking at something a foot away from you. Get away from the screen and take breaks by looking down long hallways or out the window.
My personal comment: Given my already poor vision, this has helped my eyes feel much better!

Tip: Sit on an exercise ball instead of your desk chair. This will force some movement and engage your core muscles to help improve posture. This is important! Poor posture can give your brain up to 30% less blood and oxygen.
My personal comment: My co-workers thought this was odd at first, but now I’ve started a trend!

Tip: Engage your cubicle mates in afternoon calisthenics. Lead them in neck, arm and leg stretches and maybe even a few jumping jacks.
My personal comment: This seems silly, but my co-workers love this!

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