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Is your office supporting your health, or could it be quietly impacting your well-being?
For many professionals, long hours in the office can lead to fatigue, stress, and even physical discomfort. With over 185 million working days lost to sickness in the UK last year—an average of 5.7 days per worker—it’s clear that workplace health isn’t just a personal issue but one that affects businesses across the board (ONS).
The reality is that the majority of work-related ill health stems from preventable issues. In fact, approximately 1.8 million UK workers reported work-related ill health in 2022/23, with stress, depression, or anxiety accounting for nearly half of these cases (HSE). For small businesses and professionals, such as accountants, financial advisers, and consultants, the impact of stress and sedentary routines can be especially pronounced.
Yet, there’s good news: small adjustments in the office environment can lead to significant improvements in health and productivity. In this article, we’ll explore quick, practical ways to create a healthier office space—simple changes that can benefit you and your team, boosting both well-being and morale. At Cambrai Court, we’re committed to helping our tenants achieve this balance, creating workspaces that support and nurture healthy, productive habits.
Creating an ergonomic workspace can make a world of difference in your daily comfort. Adjusting your chair, desk, and monitor height can reduce physical strain on your back and neck, making long working hours more manageable. Simple adjustments like keeping your feet flat on the floor and using a screen riser can help maintain good posture and reduce fatigue.
Quick Tips:
Sitting for prolonged periods is one of the biggest challenges in modern office life. Studies show that regular movement throughout the day helps with circulation, reduces fatigue, and boosts focus, making it easier to tackle tasks effectively. Taking short breaks to stretch, walk, or even stand while working can go a long way in promoting health.
Ideas for Movement:
Staying hydrated is essential for concentration and energy levels. Keep a water bottle on your desk as a reminder to drink regularly throughout the day. Proper hydration can help prevent fatigue, headaches, and lack of focus, making it one of the simplest habits for better health.
Tip: Consider adding a water cooler or filtered water dispenser to your office to make hydration convenient for everyone.
Good lighting isn’t just about visibility; it also reduces eye strain and can improve mood and productivity. Natural light is ideal, so try to keep blinds open during the day. If your workspace lacks sufficient natural light, invest in quality desk lamps or LED lighting to keep the environment comfortably lit.
Quick Lighting Tips:
Adding plants to the office brings a touch of nature indoors, helping to purify the air and reduce stress. Indoor plants are known for creating a calming environment, and they require minimal maintenance, making them a practical addition to any office.
Low-Maintenance Plants for the Office:
Providing healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and granola bars can reduce the temptation for sugary or highly processed foods. Healthier snack options help maintain steady energy levels and improve overall well-being, making them a great choice for a productive office.
Suggestions for Office Snacks:
A clean, organised workspace can reduce stress and improve focus. Taking a few minutes to tidy up each day can create a more relaxing environment that fosters concentration, making it easier to stay on top of work.
Quick Clean-Up Tips:
Creating a healthier office doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Small, thoughtful adjustments can lead to a noticeable difference in comfort, energy, and productivity. For small business owners and professionals working at Cambrai Court, these changes provide simple ways to enhance health and well-being in the workspace, fostering a supportive environment that benefits both individuals and teams.
