Keeping the Brain and Body Healthy While Working Remotely

The flexibility of working remotely sounds like a dream, but we forget remote work takes a toll on the mind and body. Among the many mental health effects of working remotely, loneliness, social isolation, anxiety, and depression are all common. 

Many people are returning to the office or shared office space. But side effects of remote work, like poor diet and lack of exercise, still linger on the body. 

Luckily, these easy habits you can add to your routine to boost your body and mental health when adjusting to working outside the home. 

Watch what you eat

Working in a shared office space makes it easy to get lazy when it comes to eating healthy. There’s no shame- you reach for the closest snack or eat lunch at a nearby fast-food chain. But you can readily get the right nutrients to stay full longer by sticking to fruits and vegetables. Also, limit foods high in saturated and trans fats and avoid processed foods.

Keep up your exercise routine

Exercise helps both the mind and the body, so this one’s essential, and it’s not hard to add to your workday. Do some pushups in between phone calls. Go on a morning jog. Hit the gym on the way to the office. No matter what you do, take the time to exercise. 

 Make a schedule

When working remotely, you probably regularly dealt with your roommates popping in or out, the fridge calling your name and a million other distractions.

Now that you’re back in the office, you may find yourself equally distracted by your co-workers. Reduce the stress of trying to stay focused by making a schedule to achieve your daily goals.

Stay social

You may find it’s harder to make social connections after months of virtual interactions. Video calling is not the same as face-to-face interaction. No worries. To beat loneliness, you can find a co-working space near you, or take advantage of socializing outside of work.