Health Tips > Prevention Plus > Getting Away From Your Desk Reduces Stress & Increases Creativity

Getting Away From Your Desk Reduces Stress & Increases Creativity

It may seem innocent, but if you are so dedicated to your work that you even eat lunch at your desk, you may pay the consequences in decreased productivity and creativity and increased stress and risk of heart health issues.

Physical inactivity isn’t only unhealthy, it affects the mind as well. So while you think you may be adding to your productivity for the day by parking at your desk all day, you could actually be doing yourself a disservice.

Below are a few benefits of taking time away from your desk each day.

A little exposure to fresh air and nature can go a long way in reducing your stress level.
Research suggests that spending time in nature lowers levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, in the body. It can also boost creativity and sharpen thinking. Some companies Cooper Wellness Strategies works with are taking this to heart by building gardens near their office building so employees can take time to get in touch with nature. One client has designed an entirely green and clean building, complete with a window view at every workstation. “They are doing that because they believe it can improve satisfaction in the workplace,” said Cox.

Little spurts of exercise during the day is good for your health.
Encouraging employees to take a little time away from their desk each day is an important part of a company’s health improvement program, said Cox. “Encourage employees to get up and move during the day, whether that is by taking stairs instead of the elevator, or walking to chat with a coworker on the other side of the office rather than emailing or making a phone call. Sitting too much may even affect your heart health, learn more here.

Taking a break can help “restart” your productivity.
One study found that people who were immersed in nature for four days boosted their performance on a creative problem-solving test by 50 percent. There may be a few factors that play a role in this increased creativity and productivity, including a decreased exposure to technology.

“Ultimately, it’s about a culture change in the workplace,” said Cox. “When businesses incorporate a well-being or wellness initiative, it has to start with education from the top down. Everybody has to buy into it.”

For more information on creating a healthier work environment, call 972.560.3263 or visit cooperwellness.com.

Article provided by Cooper Aerobics Marketing and Communications.