December 3, 2020
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The current global situation has caused a surge in remote work across the country. The unexpected shift has affected the daily lives of most. With a lack of regular social interactions, and a daily routine it can become difficult for employees to find motivation and creativity while working from home. Remote work comes with unique challenges when it comes to staying healthy. Continue reading for workplace wellness tips while working from home to help keep you happy, healthy, and productive.
1. Establish a Daily Routine
One of the biggest adjustments of remote work is the lack of a daily routine. You will no longer have to wake up early to ensure to make it to work on time while counting in the morning coffee run, and rush-hour traffic. Routines give us all a sense of control and organization. Therefore, sticking to a routine is one of the most important workplace wellness tips. Try to wake up and start work at the same time every day. If you would normally stop for a coffee, schedule in the time to make your morning brew and enjoy some breakfast before starting your workday. It certainly is convenient to let your alarm go off 5 minutes before work, but you will appreciate the extra time in the morning to yourself.
2. Get Showered & Dressed
Although it may seem tempting to work in your pajamas all day, don’t do it! Getting showered and dressed will help with your motivation and self-confidence to get your day started. Of course, you don’t have to dress up in tailored suits every day. Wear something that will make you feel comfortable yet productive.
3. Create a Separate Office Space
Not everyone has the luxury of a second bedroom or an office, however, creating a separate office space can help make you feel more productive. A dedicated office space helps to avoid distractions and stay focused on the day’s tasks. Make sure your new workspace has natural light, all of your materials, and is away from too much noise.
If possible, avoid working in your bed or on the couch. Apart from the back pain, it will be difficult to get into a working routine in these spaces. A separate working space also lets you disconnect at the end of the day. If your office is also the place where you sleep and watch television every night it will be difficult to differentiate work from relaxation.
4. Try Meditation
Meditation is a great way to disconnect and focus on your mental wellbeing. Research shows that it can help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and lower blood pressure. Scheduling in a few minutes of meditation every morning is a great way to start your day with a clear and focused mind! Try Meditainment, which offers free guided meditations online.
5. Get Physical
The furthest walk of your day may be from your desk to the kitchen. For that reason, it is important to schedule at least 20 to 30 
minutes of physical activity every day. Whether that be a stroll around your neighborhood, an online workout video, or morning yoga. Try some laughter yoga for a fun and unique workout to help reduce stress. Increasing your blood flow and adrenaline will give you the energy you need to get you through the day. It is also vital to keep the muscles moving and active throughout the day. Try some quick stretches for your neck, and back every hour, and stand up every once in a while, to stretch out your legs.
6. Take a Break
Remember that just because you are at home doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a coffee break or a lunch break. Avoid eating in front of your computer as much as possible to prevent burnout and exhaustion. If needed, schedule your lunch breaks so your coworkers know that you are not available. Chose healthy and nutritious foods for lunches and snacks that you would normally eat at the office.
7. Listen to Music 
Music is a great outlet for many to increase morale, and lift spirits. Create a work from home playlist with songs that will help motivate you throughout the day. You can even try sharing playlists with your coworkers and friends as a way to stay connected. Check out our “Motivation for Working Remotely” playlist for some inspiration!
8. Set Limits
Working from home makes it very easy to stay connected until the late hours of the day. To maintain mental wellness, it is important to set limits, and end your working days as you normally would in the office. Keep track of your hours to make sure you aren’t constantly working overtime unnecessarily. Watch Daryl Woodhouse’s webinar for more workplace wellness tips on how to work smart and avoid burnout.
9. Stay Social
One of the most difficult aspects of working from home is not being able to see your coworkers, and friends on a daily basis. After all, we often see our coworkers more than we see our family. Make it a point to stay connected and bond with your coworkers. Whether that be through Zoom lunches, or virtual team Happy Hours.
10. Employee Recognition
With most employees working remotely and new difficulties arising, companies need to maintain a positive work environment now more than ever. Offering wellness programs, and access to wellness resources is important for the success and productivity of the employees. Positive affirmations through milestone gifts or customer reviews are also a great way to keep up the spirits while working from home.
Working from home is an adjustment. However, with the right attitude and mindful actions to stay healthy, it can be just as productive as working in an office. Stay up to date with all of our wellness resources here!
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