The new year brings changes and new habits, often for better health. While writing your goals on paper is a great first step, actually implementing them can be difficult, especially when you add work into the mix. Whether you’re constantly on the go or tied to your desk, work doesn’t have to get in the way of health. We at Urban Office have a few suggestions for using our coworking space wisely and some tips and tricks for improved focus, heightened productivity, and better health overall. 

Plan and Prepare Meals

Preparing healthy lunches instead of going to a restaurant or ordering take-out can make a big difference both for your health and your bank account. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Tossing together a salad with a protein, an assortment of vegetables, and a simple dressing provides you with a complete, ready-to-go lunch. Alternatively, you can make extra portions of a healthy meal for dinner the night before and take the leftovers with you to store in the fridge. Additionally, our themed potlucks are a great opportunity to bring a dish to contribute and socialize during lunch time.

Stash Healthy Snacks (Only)

Stocking your workspace with snacks that are always available to you is a great way to avoid mid-afternoon hunger pains. However, that’s just half of it. Keeping only healthy items and getting rid of unhealthy, nutrient-lacking snacks keeps you making good choices by avoiding otherwise tempting sugary or sodium-filled treats. Some satiating snack options include nuts and protein bars; plus these have a long shelf life, eliminating the need to replace them often. If you forget to bring snacks, check out our snacks available at the vending machine; we’re always changing it up!

Stay Hydrated

This may seem simple, but we often overestimate our level of hydration. While ideal water consumption varies from person to person, regularly sipping water throughout the day is beneficial to everyone. Conveniently, we have water bottle refill stations as well as a built-in water and ice system located at our fridge. Additionally, having an insulated water bottle that keeps your water cold for hours at a time can prompt you to keep reaching for it. If plain water isn’t your preference, there are ways around that as well. You can infuse water with fruits or herbs, such as mint, to add a hint of flavor, or you can buy flavor-infused sparkling water.  

Sit, Stand, and Change It Up

Being sedentary for hours each day can add up and take a toll on health. However, sitting all day is no longer required when working at your desk, thanks to sit-stand desks, monitor risers, and chairs that encourage more movement. The added benefit to having your own dedicated desk or office is an increased ability to customize your workspace. Likewise, if you use our shared tables or common spaces you can find different locations to work from that allow you to sit or stand differently. By frequently alternating between sitting and standing, you keep moving throughout the day, contributing to better overall health in the long term.

Sometimes You Need to Walk Away

Walking around the office frequently is a great way to add more steps to your day, but why not increase your mileage? By going for a walk during your lunch break, you get additional exercise while also getting a change of scenery and some fresh air, helping you de-stress. Urban Office happens to be perfectly located near some great walking routes, particularly along the river.

We All Need Reminders

Taking periodic breaks is important for reducing stress and redirecting your focus. But it can be easy to get caught up in work and forget to pause. Setting notifications or reminders on your phone can encourage you to take a time out every now and then for a refresher. One way to spend these breaks is socializing with coworkers at the kitchen, sitting on the couches and reading a magazine, or browsing through our new library in the lounge!

Give Your Brain a Break

Giving your brain a break from work is wise, but that doesn’t mean you can’t exercise it! Spending a few minutes solving a crossword puzzle or word scramble, or simply doodling while listening to some music, can help relax your mind before getting back to work.

Incorporating healthy practices should enhance the quality of your workdays, not feel like an inconvenience. Fortunately, coworking spaces like Urban Office give you the freedom and flexibility to work in a way that is best for you.