When You Are a Professional In Something Other Than Athletics
Choosing to be a professional in something that is not athletics often means long hours in front of a computer monitor . I can be guilty of sitting in front of a screen for hours without taking a break. This not only works against my training in the morning and evenings but also will erode productivity. Instead of grabbing for sugary snacks and an extra afternoon coffee for any energy slumps, these are a few things I have tried that increase my circulation instead:
Standing Up and Stretching
Although I am often tempted to power through projects, I find it important to stand up every hour and stretch. Simply walking around the office, refilling your water or just filing a few papers are great ways to keep moving. When possible, get outside and get some fresh air.
Go for a Walk
If you need a caffeine boost, you consider adding a walk to a local coffee shop. The exercise will increase your circulation and get more oxygen in your body and at the same time, a change of scenery and a bit of exercise and fresh air will improve your productivity.
Drink Green Tea
Drinking tooooo much coffee or energy drinks starts working against you after a while. A healthier alternative is green tea which is much healthier and more hydrating. The good news is that – unlike coffee and energy drink – green tea will not increase your stress levels, as the antioxidants and the caffeine are released much slower in your body. You can also opt for natural sweeteners, such as stevia to reduce your sugar intake.
Choose Healthy Snacks
I love keeping a fruit bowl in my office and I always have a bag of almonds in my briefcase. When you need a sugar boost, opt for natural sources, such as dried fruit, raisins, and dates. If you are short on time, there are many online sources you can purchase from to have them delivered directly to your office such as http://www.globalfoods.uk.com/.
Slow Down When You Eat
I often am rushing out to a running practice, eating at my desk or trying to get to my next meeting. I know I can do a lot better with creating a better routine. I am great with having a healthy breakfast in the morning and having an earlier dinner (it’s good to avoid eating your dinner too late) but it is important to slow down and fully chew your food which is the first step in great digestion (something all athletes can benefit from).
