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5 Tips to Stay Healthy in a Sedentary Job

Stay_Healthy_Feb2014Sedentary jobs are jobs that involve sitting for most of the day. Since the dawn of the computer age, the rise in sedentary jobs and decline in more active occupations has been dramatic. This shift has contributed to new health concerns. Arising from many occupations not providing the amount of exercise people would have naturally gotten in the past from simply going to work. Other issues connected to sedentary work such as unhealthy snacking or decreased energy can lead to additional issues not directly related to simple lack of exercise during the day. Here are a few tips on staying healthy in a sedentary occupation.

  1. The simplest activity you can do is get up for a quick stretch every 30 minutes. This will keep blood flowing in the lower body and help keep you energized throughout the day.
  2. Although it’s very easy to sit and snack all day, it’s not healthy.  If you do feel like snacking, bring in fresh fruits and vegetables, or nuts like almonds and pistachios to snack on. They’re much healthier than candy or chips.
  3. Lay off the caffeine as much as possible. Caffeine can make you hyper-focused and energetic while at your desk, but too much of it can leave you sluggish and exhausted by the time the day ends. It can also impact your sleep cycle, which can lead to even less activity over time.
  4. Exercise when away from work. Your only choices aren’t fitness clubs, or classes, but you do need to make a commitment to exercise regularly. Consider free or inexpensive resources like fitness videos on YouTube or a running trail at a local park. You should consult your physician and choose something appropriate for your health, interests, and schedule.
  5. Lastly, consult your physician on a regular basis about your overall health. Being in tune with your needs by having a good relationship with your physician is not only good for preventing health problems that might arise from having a sedentary job, it also is a great motivator to keep you eating healthy and actively exercising between visits.

If your job does not keep you active, it is even more important that you eat right, exercise, and know about your own health. These choices will keep you healthy, allow you to be more productive at work, and even increase your energy at home.

What do you do to stay healthy despite a sedentary job? Let us know in the comments section below.

5 Things to Know This Month

5_Things_To_Know_Jan2014With each year comes new opportunities for improvement in your life, and what better time to make much needed changes than at the beginning of a new year. We all know making lifestyle changes can be difficult, but if you take one step at a time you’ll be on the road to a happier, better you in 2014. Check out these five things to know this month.

National Mentoring Month
Did you know January is National Mentoring month? There are many ways to make a difference through mentorship in your community. Spending time developing relationships with people can make a lasting impact in their life and yours. Check out Mentoring.org for opportunities to help make a difference and for information on how to start a mentoring program in your community. If you’re looking to be mentored, here are a few tips on how to pick the right mentor.

MLK Day – Jan. 20
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is celebrated on the third Monday in January. MLK Day was officially signed into law as a national holiday in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, but was not observed by all 50 states until 2000. This day is all about honoring the achievements and life of pastor and civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. Let this day remind you of your achievements, and motivate you to see your dreams realized.

National Letter Writing Week
Traditionally, the second week of January is designated as National Letter Writing Week. During this week, take time away from your keyboard to write a handwritten letter to someone. Cards, letters, and notes are precious to those who receive them. If you can’t think of a way to start a letter begin by saying, “In honor of National Letter Writing Week, I wanted to write you.”

National Blood Donor Month
Blood donation is very low this time of year yet incredibly important during winter. Help change a life by giving blood during National Blood Donor month. You’ll feel good knowing that your donation helped save a life.

National Hobby Month
Whether or not you’re a creative person, you can find some way to celebrate National Hobby month. This month is a great time to expand your horizons. Ask yourself what you enjoy doing and what those interests mean to you. Taking up a new hobby is a good way to reenergize, inspire, and expand your mind. And, it could help you make some extra money or land a job.

January is full of holidays and reasons to celebrate, so there is plenty to experience and do during this beautiful winter month. What do you like to do in January? Let us know in the comments section below!