5 Tips for Healthy Eating When Working From Home

Happy New Year!

One of my new year’s resolutions is to actually live healthier. Admittedly, it’s been on my list for quite a long time. Haha! But this year, I’m sharing my goal here with you for an extra push and accountability on my part.

Here’s the thing: I’m turning 37 soon, and my back and shoulders hurt worse than an old woman in her 70s. 😳 Plus I am exhausted and feeling meh about life. I realize that new normal burnout was coming at me strong. I’ve not been sleeping well, and I miss the feeling of waking up refreshed in the morning. I want to feel clear-headed and ready to take on the day.

So this year, I intend to take extra good care of myself. I have every intention to make 2022 my breakthrough year, and my success in all aspects of my life begins and ends with my health and energy. And a good place to start is being mindful of what I put into my body. Yes or yes?

How can I tackle this? Here’s my action plan:

1. Keep the workstation as far away from the kitchen and dining area. 

Working in (or near) the kitchen or dining area is not a good idea. It’s tempting to go over the fridge and check it for the tenth time within an hour. I have been time blocking my work schedule, might as well decide that the only time to enter the kitchen throughout the workday will be during scheduled meal and snack times.

2. Avoid skipping meals.

I have a tendency to get in too deep in work, and it could be difficult to take a pause to really eat once I’m “in the zone.” There are times when I ignore the Pomodoro timer. However, it’s critical to recognize hunger signals and understand how not eating might impair alertness and productivity. Also, eating on time during the day prevents me from becoming a grumpy mess by 5:00 p.m.

3. Focus on real food. 

We are more productive when we eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet. It makes us feel fuller for longer and helps us concentrate. Recognize that what you eat has an effect on your mood and energy level. Consider this the next time you’re hungry and want to reach into the pantry for a handful of chocolate. With that said, it makes sense to be more mindful when grocery shopping. Don’t stock on junk food. This might lead to eating merely for the sake of eating! Keep junk food out of your house as much as possible, especially things that you know will cause you to overeat.

Oh, speaking of well-balanced meals, I found this weight loss calculator that I thought could be useful to you as well. You can use this tool to estimate how much you will need to change your diet and exercise routine in order to reach your weight loss goals. You might also want to check their Body Fat Calculator and Workout Calculator. You’re welcome. 😉

4. Drink a looooot of water.

Dehydration can cause headaches and weariness, which affect our productivity. Fill a water bottle and put it near to your workstation at home, just like you would at work. If you have water on hand, you’re more likely to drink it, which will help you meet your daily water target of at least 8 glasses. And please avoid sugary drinks and juices, which can lead you to collapse later.

5. Practice mindful eating.

Mindful eating is eating with your full awareness of the sensory experience of eating without distraction. It’s easy to work through your lunch break. But distracted eating can contribute to overeating and a reduction in fullness and contentment. Instead, when it’s time to eat, just eat. Take a break from work to sit down at a table and relax for a few minutes while enjoying your meal. You’ll have a better time eating, and you’ll be better prepared for the remainder of your workday.

So that’s my plan of action to commit to healthier eating habits this 2022. What about you? Care to share your tips?