If you’re spending hours out of your day working, then it’s important to keep yourself comfortable. After all, discomfort can, over the years, evolve into long-term health problems that you might struggle to ever be rid of. This is true for manual labourers, who might find themselves engaged in physical work for upwards of ten hours a day. But it’s also the case when it comes to desk-bound office workers, who might adopt the wrong posture, and eventually come to live with the consequences.
So, what changes might you make to promote your health and comfort in the long term?
Prioritise Ergonomic Tools and Gear
If you place your body under constant stress and strain, then your choice of equipment can make a big difference. For example, if you know that you’re going to be walking for miles every day, through uneven terrain, then the investment in a comfortable pair of work boots might not only keep your feet comfortable – it might also reduce your risk of trips and falls. Similarly, for tasks that require extended kneeling, construction knee pads are essential for reducing pressure and preventing discomfort.
Take Regular Breaks and Stretch Frequently
Of course, the investment in the right equipment alone might not be enough to keep you in good shape. You’ll also need to engage in exercises to limit the damage. This might mean spending time in the gym, or on a yoga mat. However, you can make a difference by investing just a few minutes a day in short stretches, and by breaking things up with regular rest sessions. Simply getting up to make a cup of tea every hour or two might be enough to prevent the problems associated with long periods spent in the same position. It might be that you’re already beginning to show the symptoms of a longstanding muscular problem – so learn the exercises you need to counteract them.
Cook healthy meals in advance
The food you eat can make a huge difference to your long-term health. And yet millions of workers in the UK find themselves subsisting on convenience-focussed food during the daytime – much of which might not provide the same nutrition as a home-cooked meal. By preparing your food in batches, and in advance, you can limit the damage significantly – and protect your finances at the same time.
Of course, doing this effectively requires some planning and forethought. But in the long run, the benefits can be significant. Make a habit of spending an hour or so on a Sunday chopping vegetables and distributing cooked rice into Tupperware boxes. The great food you enjoy throughout the week might provide you with an incentive to keep up the routine!
