4 Easy Things

By now we are all somewhat accustomed to our new work-life situation.  Like it or not, here we are. Without the ergonomics of professional office spaces, "water cooler" interactions with co-workers, and add to that lots of extra stress, your body may be complaining about the situation. I wanted to offer some suggestions for alleviating very common issues desk jockeys deal with under 'normal' conditions, and which are now exacerbated with our makeshift offices and lifestyles. 
You've heard these before. But now is the time to actually take action and make some little tweaks to your daily routine. Hopefully, they will become habits and I promise they will serve you well.

1) Sit up! Make sure you are using good form when you're clacking away on your keyboard and calling in to your virtual meeting. (And by good form, I don't mean just get out of our pajamas!)  Here's a pic of how your body will be happiest if you must sit at a computer:

If you don't have a nice fancy office chair, you may need to add some support with pillows or rolled up towels. If your computer screen is too low, change the height by improvising with some books or shoe boxes as risers. 

2) Move! Once or twice an hour, get up and get some blood flowing. Stretch. Planks. Jumping jacks. Set an alarm and do this regularly. There are tons of resources for exercise, stretching and breathing routines.  Find what works for you and DO IT! Here are a couple simple and straightforward suggestions:

https://youtu.be/vRQdJQ3Xhzk

https://www.verywellfit.com/best-stretches-for-office-workers-1231153

3) Drink water! Yeah, you'll have to make more bathroom breaks, but that's great excuse to get up and move. Here are some tips to increasing your intake:

• fill (daily) and keep a jug or carafe at your desk- it'll give you a constant reminder to replenish your glass and it'll be a satisfying accomplishment when you've emptied it by day's end
• set an intention to drink one glass per hour
• before you refill your coffee mug, drink another glass of water
• drink water from a straw 
• add some fresh lemon wedges to your glass or make some herbal tea
• set your phone or computer background as a water image for a visual reminder

4) Breathe! It's a superpower. Really.  Again, lots of articles and videos. You don't need a lot of time or any special equipment to practice different types of breathing. 

Feeling tired? Try the Bellows Breath for some energy!

Feeling anxious, stressed or having trouble sleeping? Try 4-7-8 breathing (twice a day for no more than 4 breath cycles).  

May you find peace, love and joy in each day. Take good care of yourself so you are able be good to others as well.  

Much love! xoxox