Healthy isn’t just your body, it’s your mind and soul as well. How do you keep all three healthy? By dedicating time to important health rituals, especially if you are sitting behind a computer all day.
Most workplaces do an excellent job at promoting health through providing yummy lunches or fun activities. It’s important for you to be an advocate of your health as well, and lunch is the perfect time to do so.
Here are 7 ways to be healthy on your lunch break.
1. Back Away From the Computer
Most people spend their day in front of a screen, which can cause your eyes and brain to become exhausted. Take a break from the screen even if it just means closing your eyes for a minute or two.
2. Plan Ahead
The New Year is always a hectic time, but it’s also the perfect time to start a new routine.
One of the best ways I’ve found to stay healthy is to pack my lunch. Not only can you save money, but the meals you make at home are more nutritious than eating out. You know the exact ingredients and that they are made with love!
3. Take Some "Me" Time
Work can be a hectic place; we all know that. There are always people trying to grab your attention.
If you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions, step out of the office during lunch for a few minutes of alone time. Go to the bathroom, find a quiet corner, or a conference room. Take a moment to just be silent by yourself.
4. Meditation
While we’re on the topic of "me" time, meditation is one of the best healthy practices for your mind. This is one you can do without even leaving your desk. If you need to, block out time on your calendar so people know not to bother you. Find an online guided meditation and listen to it right in your desk chair.
You’ll find that even five minutes will leave you feeling clearer and more vibrant.
5. Fresh Air
Nothing feels better than a breath of fresh air when you’ve been sitting in a crowded office all day! (That saying definitely came from a work crazed person like myself.)
Taking a break from work is so important and if you’ve got time to spare, there’s nothing better than going out for a mid-day walk. You’ll return to your desk feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on whatever the boss throws at you next.
6. Exercise
Got a full hour for lunch? Why not go to the gym?
This is a fantastic way to break up your day and get those endorphins pumping. Go to a nearby gym, yoga studio, or even out for a run. Hopefully your energy will be contagious and you can convince some colleagues to join you!
7. Stretch
I know all the yoga lovers reading this have been waiting, but I of course had to save the best for last!
If you’re a dedicated practitioner like myself, you’ve done enough research to know how bad it is for your body to sit at a desk all day. That’s why lunch time is the perfect break to get up and stretch it out!
We all know it can be tough to stay healthy, but the New Year is the perfect time to start. Set up a lunch time routine for yourself, put it on your calendar, and stick to it.
At first it will be hard, but trust me, at some point your body will begin to crave those meditations, healthy lunches and stretch sessions. You won't be able to make it through the day without a healthy lunch break!
How do you stay healthy on your lunch break? Share with us below!
