By Anouska Shenn
21st November 2024, 12:52 PM UTC
As the seasons change, it’s natural to feel a shift in energy and mood, especially at work. With a few thoughtful adjustments to your workspace and routine, you can make the shift more easeful for both body and mind. Here are some practical tips to help you adapt:
Brighten your mornings
A SAD light on your desk can help combat the effects of darker days, boosting energy, mood, and supporting your cortisol (stress hormone) curve. You may even find that this improves your sleep quality as you calibrate your circadian rhythm.
Stay cosy
A hot water bottle by your feet or a blanket over your legs isn’t just about comfort – it allows your muscles to relax, too. Staying warm promotes circulation and helps prevent muscle tension from setting in, which in turn calms the nervous system.
Have a stretch
Colder temperatures can make our joints stiffer and muscles feel tighter. Incorporate some gentle stretches into your workday to keep yourself feeling bendy and pain-free. Need some inspiration? Download our free mini guide here, or book one of our Desk Yoga classes for your team.
Go green
Add some greenery to your desk. An Exeter University study found that incorporating plants improved employees’ happiness and productivity levels. Indoor plants also help to filter out pollutants from the air, which is especially important when windows are being kept closed.
Spice things up
Eating spicy foods releases endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers, creating a natural high. Add some chilli flakes to your lunch or drink a warming cup of chai for a quick boost. Cinnamon, in particular, has been shown to support mood by influencing brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, thanks to compounds such as cinnamaldehyde.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading these suggestions. For even more ideas on how to make your workday more nourishing for your mind and body, book our signature Self-Care at Your Desk workshop.
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Anouska Shenn writes about workplace wellness and employee experience from London, drawing on 8 years of experience and her work with corporate clients around the world.