Tips for a healthy workplace

We spend more and more time sitting in front of the computer, the TV, and in the car. Since hybrid work was introduced, there are also significant risks of increased sedentary behavior during the workday. Something our bodies are not adapted for.

Did you know that we Europeans sit for about 10 hours a day on average? Diseases related to sedentary lifestyles are the fourth most common cause of premature death in our high-income countries today. Statistics show that the world's population has become so inactive that the WHO (World Health Organization) has established a global plan to reduce sedentary behavior and promote increased physical activity. But there are things you can do to feel good at work.

Support healthy habits

Therefore, it's important that we create active and healthy offices that can support new healthy habits – regardless of where the workplace is; at the office, a co-working space, or a home office. When people feel good, their ability to focus, perform, be creative, and spread joy at work increases. It also strengthens the immune system and reduces sick leave. Sustainable organizations are not only about the environment and economy but also about human sustainability in the workplace. It's so important that new certification models, such as WELL, today include individual well-being alongside environmental criteria.

Healthy interior design

Investing in active, healthy interior design that is stylish and fosters pride within your organization is an important step in creating the workplace of the future! It also provides a competitive advantage in recruitment. Companies that can demonstrate, not just in theory but in practice, how they contribute to the sustainable human become attractive. Today, there are many excellent interior design solutions to reduce sedentary behavior, promote good physical and mental health, and create sustainable habits. Below, we've listed some tips on what's important to consider.

Have an active position with a height-adjustable desk so you can switch between standing and working and sitting actively.
Have the table at the right height – a 90-degree angle between your forearm and upper arm with forearm support will reduce tension in your shoulders and neck.
Get the right lighting – make sure you have enough light for the task to reduce the risk of headaches, neck problems, etc.
Have the right equipment – with the right computer monitor position, ergonomic mice, and products that help you maintain circulation and reduce static movements.
Have the possibility to shield visual impressions with, for example, a mobile desk screen to maintain focus on the task.
Make it possible for the brain to recover – take a breathing break to get oxygen in, clear your thoughts, and calm the sympathetic nervous system. When we are relaxed, creativity and concentration can increase.
Take movement breaks – go out for lunch to get daylight, fresh air, and spontaneous movement, or why not try walking meetings.
Create flexible meeting spaces that allow individuals to adapt and vary their working posture. We are all different with different needs.

It pays to invest in health

Include the question already in the planning stage when you are considering new premises or renovations for the office. Or perhaps you want to take the next step and develop your existing office?

Think about how you can create activity and design workplaces that promote movement, flexibility, and a healthy environment for employees.
Use interior design, equipment, and digital technology to motivate employees to be healthy.
By investing in prevention, you can increase your attractiveness and avoid extensive costs due to low efficiency, sick leave, rehabilitation, and not least, negative effects for the individual.

Investing in active and flexible workplaces pays off.

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