People who use the co-working space at the Cooperative Venture Workspace know how to work hard. That is, in their job of course. However, they also know how to work hard to improve their overall health.
Working on your health while working at the Workspace is easier than one may think. We’ve compiled a list of healthy activities to do in and around the office.
Don’t Slouch
Remember what your mom says? It still applies! Pay attention to how you are seated. The Mayo Clinic says proper office ergonomics — including correct chair height, adequate equipment spacing, and good desk posture — can help you and your joints stay comfortable at work.
Take a break
Experts say you should divert your attention from the task at hand at least once every hour. So go ahead – stand up, cruise the Workspace halls, and get away from the screen for a few minutes.
Deskercise
Yes. That’s a thing. There is a full array of stretches that you can do at your desk. These simple stretches can help with common problems such as neck and shoulder pain, lower back pain, and even stress. Check out the full list here.
Take a walk
We — meaning every single one of us – should be walking as much as we can. The goal of 10,000 steps is a popular recommendation, but the folks at LifeScience, citing the Center for Disease Control, say 7,000 to 8,000 steps is good. And what better place to take a quick walk than the streets of beautiful downtown Portsmouth?
Walk and talk
Does your business require a lot of phone calls? Do you use a smartphone and not a landline? Then how about getting up and walking while you talk. Or if it’s you and a co-worker or two, don’t park it in a couple of seats somewhere, take a walk and talk it out.
Drink water
That should be easy at the Workspace. We supply bottled water. As well, the tap water is filtered. Drinking water is essential to your health, says WebMD. And by getting up to get some water, you accomplish No. 2 in the list.
Bring your lunch
Of course, being located in downtown Portsmouth means easy access to some great food, including Bubby’s Deli right here at 36 Maplewood Avenue. But eating out every day can pack on the calories, sodium, etc. Bring food from home on occasion – you can not only better what you eat, but also save money while doing it.
Walk, run or bike to work
Ditching the car can be tough, but the health benefits of walking, running or biking to work can’t be overstated. And don’t sweat the sweat. We have a shower here at the Workspace.
Replace your desk chair with stand-up desk
Sitting for long periods can be hard on any number of limbs and joints. A stand-up desk might be an option. With adjustable heights and options for doing work while standing or sitting, it’s no wonder stand-up desks are all the rage among offices. Don’t believe us? Just ask member Nick Bouquet.
The Cooperative Venture Workspace is evolution of the creative, shared workspace.