Stay fit while you work!

It is always important to keep your health in mind. This is particularly true when you have an office job, where most people remain seated on the same chair for an average of 8 to 9 hours a day. It has been generally proven that sitting too long increases the risk of a number of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart and cardiovascular illnesses. We are happy to give you a few tips.

• Try to move as much as possible every day:

            -  Regularly stand up behind your desk and do some stretching exercises.

            -  Occasionally pay a visit to a colleague on another floor rather than sending an

               email or phoning.

            -  Go outside during your lunch pause and take a walk in the fresh air (rain or sunshine).

               This will make you more alert and help you to feel fresher throughout the afternoon.

• Drink at least 1.5 liters of water during office hours and avoid coffee and soft drinks.
• Eat fruit every day and avoid unhealthy snacks, as they consume your energy in the long run and have a negative impact on your stress level.
• Regularly make your own sandwich and/or salad instead of getting take-out food.
• Do not go on social media during every pause, but have a chat with a colleague or simply enjoy the calm and a healthy lunch, or read a relaxing book/magazine.

While we are all aware of what we should be doing, it is easier said than done. If you find it hard to change your routine, start out by adjusting one thing each week or month. This will enable you to gradually get your body accustomed to this healthier lifestyle. After a while, your body will be craving greater variation and you will have created, in other words, a healthy addiction.

Wishing you all the best with your vigorous new beginning!