Working from home has so many perks, but it’s also really easy to fall into some bad habits if you’re not careful. If you didn’t know, we here at Glitter Guide are a completely remote team, so we’re constantly trading tips on how we can make sure to squeeze in enough self-care so that we’re feeling our best. So if you’re looking for some super-easy hacks for boosting your work from home wellness routine, we’ve got you covered!
Tip #1 – Plan ahead easy, healthy lunches
OK, so to be honest, for the first few years of working from home I had a really bad habit of just diving headfirst into work and not really eating. I would basically just drink iced coffee until I felt lightheaded around 3 p.m. and then I’d chow down on a bunch of almonds. You guys, planning your meals is such a game changer. But I don’t necessarily have time each weekend to do an elaborate meal prep (because, you know, 3-year-olds), so finding easy, healthy lunches has been my saving grace.
I went fully plant-based a little over a year ago, and it can sometimes feel limiting when it comes to meal options. But then I discovered Loma Linda®, and it totally changed how I planned my weekly meals. Loma Linda® makes a delicious line of shelf-stable Plant-Based Protein Meal Solutions and Meal Starters, with a bunch of different varieties to choose from, including plant-based versions of favorite comfort foods like my personal favorites, Taco Filling + Pad Thai.
One of my favorite easy lunches is a taco salad. With a super yummy taste and texture, Loma Linda® offers meatless, sustainable plant-based seasoned Taco Filling that’s perfect for your mid-day taco craving. You literally just pop it in the microwave for 60 seconds and you’re ready to get creative. I like to add mine to a bowl of lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro and avocado. It’s also pre-seasoned so I truly just have to add it all to a bowl and chow down. I talk a lot about my switch to eating plant-based while my husband is a meat-eater in this post. I love that these Plant-Based Proteins are an easy compromise for us for dinners as well. Plus, these tasty, nutritious, plant-based foods are non-GMO and gluten-free so I feel good feeding them to my kiddo.
TBH, I’ll probably bring one with me to Thanksgiving this year!
Tip #2 – Create a health-friendly workspace
I know it can be tempting to work on the couch and watch reruns of “Law & Order: SVU” when you work from home, but that’s a bad trap to fall into. Because you work from home and don’t have the usual breaks and social interaction that comes with a day in the office, it’s easy to stay sedentary. Create a workspace that’s comfy, but not too comfy, if you know what I mean. Try placing your desk in the room with the best natural light, and surround yourself with things that make you happy, like plenty of fresh flowers. I also like to keep a little timer on my desk so I can take breaks from sitting. I try to alternate between sitting and standing every 30 to 60 minutes. It’s also nice to get a change of scenery every 60 minutes, even if it’s just from my kitchen counter to my desk. I also highly recommend an activity tracker if you don’t have one. My husband got me a Fitbit for Christmas and it really helps. You don’t realize how much you’re sitting down until this little gadget starts counting your steps…or lack thereof.
Tip #3 – Schedule time to move your body
I am lucky to live in San Diego where I can basically go on a walk outdoors year-round. The key part to maintaining healthy habits when you work from home is to treat this time like an actual task on your to-do list, otherwise you won’t do it. I have an alarm on my phone for each day where I pause what I’m doing and take my dog for a walk, even if it’s just for 15 minutes. Blood flow is your brain’s best friend! Luckily, my dog needs so much exercise he won’t ever let me skip our daily walk.
Tip #4 – Get Mindful While You Work
Apps are my best friend. Because it’s easy to get stuck in the workflow, I have an app on my phone that reminds me to drink water every 45 minutes. And honestly, it makes a huge difference. It really does make me stop what I’m doing and hydrate. Another app I love to use while working is Headspace. It has a great series on productivity, creativity and even more specific like Mindful Tech or Presentations. Having these on during the day helps me streamline my focus and keep myself in the best mindset possible.
I also find it really helpful to have candles or essential oils that help invigorate my productivity. I know this isn’t rocket science, but the right scent can help keep you energized and focused. Right now, I’m really loving this Made by Yoke candle, Presence.
Tip #5 – Indulge in fresh air + vitamin D
I can’t tell you how many days I’ve worked through the entire morning and afternoon without setting foot outside. Even if it’s just for five minutes at a time, take a stretch break and head outside for a quick dose of fresh air and vitamin D. You’ll be amazed how quickly it can invigorate you and boost productivity. Plus, it’s just really good for your overall well-being, physically and mentally. If you have time, enjoy your lunch outdoors! I find that taking my Loma Linda® Taco Filling taco salad out on my deck is such a nice break from the daily grind. The world isn’t going to end if you take 30 minutes to enjoy your Pad Thai. Besides, you only spent 60 seconds making it, might as well spend your time enjoying it.
Hopefully these tips can inspire you to make some changes. Whether it be switching to a plant-based diet or revamping your workspace, you’ll be amazed at what a few simple changes can do for your health and productivity.
