Manage Fatigue at a Desk Job

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More and more people in modern societies have jobs that require them to sit at a desk for many hours a day. That sitting takes a terrible toll on the body.  Scientific studies show that sitting for 6 hours or more a day doubles someone’s chances of heart disease. It also can lead to conditions such as metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes. There are some things you can do, however, to mitigate these risks. Here are a few tips.

Exercise outside of work. You may not have time to go for a power walk or run during working, but you can probably find time before or after work. Make a ritual of going for a morning walk or an afternoon jog. The heart healthy benefits will last through that time in which you are sitting.

 

At work, be a figgitter. Spin in your chair and bounce your legs and all those other things that teachers despise about restless students. These movements will help improve your blood flow in the time that you sit. They may also help you concentrate and get your work done sooner.

 

If you can, get a standing desk. Standing desks are either stationary or adjustable, so you can either sit or stand in front of them. When you stand up at work, it is a form of exercise. As you keep yourself upright and balanced, you are using many different muscle groups. Stand with good posture and you will build up the muscles around your spine. You may find that it helps correct many chronic pain problems.

 

Proper shoes are important. You can get comfortable shoes that are work appropriate from 6:00 PM.  Try to avoid high heels. If you must wear them, but also have to sit, bring an extra pair of low shoes for around the office.

 

Rest is important. When you sleep your body repairs itself and replenishes important brain chemicals. If you have trouble sleeping at night, be sure not to have caffeine in the afternoon or evening. You may also try a melatonin supplement. It is non-narcotic and non-habit forming.  Get a good sleep schedule going and your life will be much easier and you will feel much less fatigued at work.