It’s summertime, and while you might be getting ready for a sunshine-filled vacation, the sun should not be reserved only for the weekend or when you take time off from work. Here’s how to help you maximize your workday vitamin D by getting some sunlight, even in the office.
Work Outdoors or By a Window
If your desk has a window view, be intentional about how you position yourself so you can take a minute to look at nature. If you have the opportunity to work remotely, consider switching up your workspace by placing yourself next to a window at home or in a coffee shop or café. According to one study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, people who work near windows are more physically active, sleep longer, and have better overall sleep quality than people who work far away from windows or in offices without any. If you don’t work near natural light, surround yourself with bright lights, like an extra lamp, to stay alert. Take your Teams or Zoom call outside to give yourself a challenge to get some sun.
Take a Break Outside
If you can’t work outside, try leaving the office during a break. Whether it’s your lunch break or just a quick power break before the remainder of your projects and meetings, getting some sunshine can help you get the fuel you need or inspire some creativity to get you through the rest of the workday. If you know a co-worker who could also use some sunshine, see if they’ll tag along with you outside.
Switch Up Your Routine
Try varying the hours you work if your job schedule is flexible. For instance, if you often arrive at work around 9 a.m., consider arriving a bit earlier to allow you to leave early and enjoy the sunshine. The sun can always be enjoyed before leaving for work if your schedule is a little less flexible. You can improve your mood and increase your motivation to get through the workday by incorporating sunshine into your daily routine.
What are some other ways you try to catch the sun during the workday? Let us know in the comments section below!
