The COVID pandemic has shifted the way many organisations work, including moving to more flexible options, such as hybrid and remote work positions. For those who have made the switch, prioritising good health habits and productivity has been crucial to achieving success in this new professional setting. I now work from home, 95% of the time and I have had to review my fitness plan too!
By maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine, remote workers can enjoy many benefits, including more energy, sharper mental activity, better sleep, and more.
1. Increased Energy Levels
By eating a nutritious diet and scheduling regular physical activity into your day, you will have boosted energy levels, helping you stay focused and productive throughout the day. Through a nutrient-rich diet, your body has the ability to convert foods into energy that it can use to complete various tasks that rely on high energy levels.
2. Improved Mental Well-being
Physical activity releases endorphins, which can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Combined with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, this can contribute to better mental health and overall well-being. By enhancing your mood and increasing your sense of wellness, these healthy habits can increase your engagement and help you successfully tackle projects and heavy workloads.
3. Enhanced Cognitive Function
Eating nutrient-dense foods and engaging in regular exercise can improve cognitive function, including memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. This can be particularly beneficial for remote workers who need to stay sharp and focused while working independently. Since built-in stimulus, such as peer interaction, is absent in a remote work setting, group exercise options can be a unique option to explore.
4. Better Sleep Quality
Although it is unclear exactly how regular exercise improves sleep, studies have shown that it does help you fall asleep faster and enjoy better sleep quality. This is important for remote workers and helps them feel more rested and refreshed each day. Additionally, certain foods, such as those rich in tryptophan and magnesium, can promote relaxation and improve sleep. A good rule to follow is cutting off all food and drinks at least an hour before bed to allow your body time to properly digest.
5. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
Many people underestimate the impact of a healthy diet and regular exercise when it comes to their health. By eating the right foods and engaging in physical activity, you can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Not only does this improve the quality of life, but it also reduces healthcare costs and absenteeism for remote workers. Taking a proactive approach in your healthcare, such as scheduling cardiology checkups, can go a long way toward ensuring optimal health and long-term viability in a remote work setting.
6. Increased Immunity
Nutrient-rich foods and regular exercise can strengthen the immune system, making remote workers less susceptible to illnesses. This is particularly important for individuals who may have limited access to healthcare or who work in isolation. Choose foods that will boost your immune system, such as those rich in vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin D, and probiotics, to name a few.
7. Enhanced Work-Life Balance
Working remotely can blur the lines of healthy work habits including taking regular breaks, optimizing your workspace, creating a schedule, and prioritizing movement and nutrition. By incorporating a healthy diet and frequent exercise into your work routine, you will enjoy a better work-life balance and overall mental well-being, leading to increased satisfaction and productivity both at work and in personal life.
By prioritising a healthy diet and regular exercise, remote workers can significantly improve their physical and mental health as well as enhance their overall quality of life and productivity. Check out my other tips for working from home.
