Eight Tips For Spending More Time Outside
As we all realised during the height of lockdown, there's no refuting that spending more time outside is good for our health. It's linked to fighting fatigue, boosting productivity, improving mental health and even lowering blood pressure. But does that mean doom and gloom for us busy computer workers?
Not so fast… here’s how you can benefit from spending more time in the great outdoors, even with a hectic desk job:
Utilise Your Lunch Break
When work gets crazy - as always seems to be the case – it’s important to utilise any opportunities you can to get out. Getting out of the house or office at lunchtime is a great non-negotiable. A 20-minute walk and eating lunch outside on sunny days is ideal, or even just heading out for a quick coffee is better than nothing!
Take Catch Ups, Outside
It’s not always realistic to request your international board members dial in to a meeting taking place in the park, but it is a great idea for internal catch ups. If you’re having a weekly check in call or catch up, take advantage of dry weather and talk and walk or pick a spot to sit outside. It’ll help you feel refreshed and the change of scenery might even spark your creativity.
Working From Home? Take Advantage Of The Extra Time
Who else has gained 2 hours of time back thanks to the new working from home way of the world? Instead of snoozing in bed, take advantage of the extra time and get outside for an early morning walk or bike ride.
Swap Your Gym Session For A Run Club
Not sure about getting back in the gym after lockdown? Swap your usual gym session for an outdoor workout instead. Grab a skipping rope, head out for a run, or pull together a quick bodyweight circuit. Terrible at staying accountable without booking into a class? Stay committed by meeting a friend or joining your local run club instead. Live in London? Here’s a few great clubs to get you started
Post Work Picnic
Who needs the pub? Grab some supplies from the shops and head to the park for a socially distant picnic! The fresh air and vitamin D will be just what you need after a stressful day at your laptop.
Maximise Your Weekend
You might be stuck at your desk 5 days a week, but there’s still 2 days to get out and explore! Make the most of your freedom at the weekend and try to avoid holing away in front of Netflix. Go explore a new neighbourhood, meet a friend for a bike ride or walk and talk with a coffee. A weekend of outdoor adventures will help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated come Monday morning.
Make It A Habit
The hardest part about any of these tips? Making them stick. Pick a couple that you think seem achievable and stick with it until it becomes second nature (apologies for the pun!). Set an alarm or mark it in your calendar so that it’s an appointment you can’t skip - no excuses!