by Cheryl Clarke
If there is one New Year’s resolution that’s super simple to keep it’s to stop eating lunch at your desk. This one simple action can have profound effects on your health, well-being and your business.
It’s so easy to do, and it’s something I’ve fallen victim to many a time. When it’s cold outside, maybe even raining and the kettle is just around the corner it can be difficult to force yourself to break away. Whether you are working from home, in a shared office space or have your own, taking a break for lunch is absolutely fundamental for your health and your business, here’s why.
Sitting down is as bad for you as smoking
Several recent studies have found that sitting for too long more than doubles your risk of diabetes, it can increase the risk of heart disease and is as bad for you as smoking. Dr Emma Wilmot a researcher from the University of Leicester says, “When we sit for long periods of time, enzymes changes occur in our muscles that can lead to increased blood sugar levels. The effect happens very quickly and regular exercise won’t fully protect you.”
Taking a break from your desk for an hour in the middle of the day is the best habit you will ever get into.
Clearing your head leads to better ideas
You’ve probably found this already, I know I have. The best ideas come at the most random moments, whilst you are queuing up to buy a croissant or, quite oddly for me, on a trip to the toilet! Weird that I know, but the principle is the same.
Creative ideas are hard to come by sitting down in the same worn out spot you’ve been working in for the last 6 months or more. Getting up and out, breathing in some fresh air and changing your environment can work wonders.
Plus fresh air has been scientifically proven to improve brainstorming, do you need another reason to go outside?!
Having lunch with friends is good for your health
If you are starting up a business on your own (and I know this from experience) loneliness can be a nightmare. If you are used to being surrounded by people in a busy office all day and then suddenly you are in your front room with just your laptop and Jerry Springer or Jeremy Kyle to keep you company, it can be tough!
Loneliness is very, very bad for your health. It effects your mental wellness and can have a knock on effect on your productivity and business. As entrepreneurs we have to be doubly strong minded and something as simple as having lunch with friends, arranging a working lunch or signing up for a networking lunch can be hugely helpful in keeping your mind fit and strong and where it needs to be.
I hope this has convinced you of the huge benefits you can get for you and your business just by going out for lunch. If there is one New Year’s resolution that’s super simple to keep it’s this! We all have to make the effort to prioritize our own health and well being alongside our business goals and aspirations.
For more simple tips about incorporating health and well being into your everyday life check out citycalm.org.
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