Cuckoo Team’s Tips for Refreshing Breaks During Remote Working Days
Remote work is a common reality for most people, offering flexibility but also presenting challenges for both physical and mental health. Long hours spent in front of the computer, often in a static posture, can lead to physical discomfort, such as back and neck pain, while the lack of social interaction and movement can increase stress and fatigue. Over time, this can contribute to burnout, reduced productivity, and feelings of isolation. Without the natural breaks we might take in a traditional office setting, like walking to meetings or chatting with coworkers, it becomes easy to fall into a sedentary routine. There’s studies giving some indication of the effects of remote working. However, the reality is that we don’t even know the full scale of the effects on individuals or society as a whole.
What we do know, is that mindful breaks and adding movement to your day, no matter where you work, help to combat many of the disadvantages of sedentary work. In order to ensure you’re moving enough and staying active especially during your remote workdays, it’s essential to plan regular breaks. Too often, remote work leads to sitting for long periods, which can leave you feeling drained and unmotivated. Home environment gives you flexibility to get more creative with your breaks and allows you to do things you wouldn’t be able to do at an office. Here are three simple yet effective ways to take breaks and feel more energised throughout your day.
1. Take a walk in the nature
One of the best ways to recharge during a break is to step outside and immerse yourself in nature, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Nature bathing, or simply spending time outdoors, can improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your overall well-being. A quick walk around the block or even sitting in your backyard can do wonders for your mental and physical energy. Fresh air and sunlight help refresh your mind, allowing you to return to work feeling rejuvenated.
2. Read a Book or Newspaper
Stepping away from the screen doesn’t just mean physical movement; it also means giving your mind a chance to rest. Reading a book or a newspaper during a break can provide a mental reset, allowing you to momentarily focus on something non-work related. Whether it’s fiction, an interesting article, or just a few pages of a novel, reading can reduce stress, spark creativity, and help you return to your tasks with fresh focus.
3. Stretch Your Body
Long hours of sitting can lead to stiffness, back pain, and decreased energy. Incorporating simple stretches during your breaks can combat this. Focus on stretching your back, neck, shoulders, and legs to improve circulation and relieve muscle tension. Even just 2-3 minutes of stretching can boost your energy levels, increase flexibility, and improve posture, helping you feel more comfortable and energized for the rest of your day. Stretching at home gives you more freedom to use the floor and walls that you’d maybe feel comfortable utilising at the office. Did you know that we have stretching and yoga also in Cuckoo?
Back Rounding and Chest Opening
Bend forward, letting your upper body hang loosely toward the floor. Rise up, extend your arms to the sides, and open your chest. Repeat.
Side Stretch
Place your left foot behind your right leg, crossing them. Raise your left arm up. Bend your torso to the right. Repeat on the other side.
Shoulder Rolls
Roll your shoulders a few times backward and forward. Make a pumping motion by lifting your shoulders toward your ears. Repeat the sequence.
By taking regular breaks and incorporating these activities into your routine, you’ll not only feel more energized but also improve your overall productivity and well-being during remote workdays. Remember, taking care of yourself is key to staying effective and engaged while working from home!
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