The number of people working from home has increased since the coronavirus pandemic. In 2019, only 4.7% of UK employees worked from home, according to Forbes. Fast forward to 2023 and 29% of people work from home some of the time, with 10% operating from home all the time.

If you’re one of those who work from home regularly and are keen to look after your mental and physical health, you’re in the right place. Here we explore several ways you can boost your well-being while working from home.

Take regular breaks

Firstly, it’s important to take regular breaks. A recent article on LinkedIn outlines some of the benefits of stepping away from your workload, including reducing mental fatigue, stress and burnout.

Breaks can also improve the quality of your work by stimulating “your creativity and innovation”, improving “your learning and retention” and enhancing “your problem-solving skills”.

It’s recommended to take a 5–10-minute break every hour, or 15-20 minutes every couple of hours. Do something that helps you switch off and feel at ease, whether that’s a walk outside, a short meditation or chatting with a loved one.

ergonomic desk

Use ergonomic equipment

To look after your health and well-being, make sure that your workspace is set up ergonomically. Choose a chair that supports your back, adjusting the height so that your feet sit flat on the floor and your knees are in line with your hips.

Your desk should be at a height that allows your wrists to rest comfortably and offers plenty of space underneath for your legs. Any screens should sit at least an arm’s length away and ideally face away from windows to reduce glare.

By taking the time to set your desk up ergonomically, you’ll have less chance of work-related injuries due to poor posture or repetitive strain.

Organise your space

Another way to boost your well-being when working from home is to get organised. If possible, set your workspace up in a spot away from areas you’d normally relax in, such as a hallway or spare bedroom.

This creates a clear distinction between the place where you work and the place where you rest or sleep, allowing your brain to switch off after your working day. It also means you’re less likely to be distracted or interrupted by others in your household.

Once you’ve found the right room, prioritise keeping your desk tidy and clear from obstructions. This can help to prevent accidents while working as well as make you more productive and motivated.

Invest in effective storage solutions like cabinets or floating shelves and give all your items a dedicated home. Use cable clips or ties to manage your wires and set up tools like USB charging points to help you work more efficiently.

By following these tips, you can help maintain your health and wellness while working from home.