Article: Mindful Tips: Working From Home

Working from home give us the freedom to work wherever we want — it can be our bed, our home office, a chair by the pool, a local coffee-shop, or a neighborhood park. We can work anytime at any place around the world. The freedom to work when and where we want is a dream, but it can still be difficult to balance our work and personal life.

For me, I needed to find some ways to destress and take care of my body during a busy work day, and I want to share my tips with you.

COFFEE TIME

Every morning, I start my day with a good ol' cup of joe! I drink Bones® Strawberry Shortcake flavored coffee - it is ahhhhmazing! I also add caramel creamer and marshmallows. Don't judge me. It's a daily treat. Try it! You'll love it! Or if you don't like coffee, try tea or another beverage of your choice.

I usually take my coffee outside and sit on my back porch for a few minutes to soak in some morning sunshine and listen to the birds chirp from the trees or the ducks quack by the river. I reflect on life's blessings and just give myself a little "me" time before I dive into my work.

MUSIC

I love music! I sometimes like to jam to some punk rock music while I work. It just helps me flow with my work and allows my creativity to take over.

HYDRATE

Sometimes it's hard to drink throughout the day, especially for me. I don't know why that is though. So I make sure to keep a tumbler full of ice water by my side all day.

GET MOVING

Working from home usually means we sit most of the day. It's very important to get up to stretch and move around throughout the day to get the blood flowing. I have a standing desk that I use when I get tired of sitting. It's wonderful! If you don't have one, look into it. I also get up and walk around after every hour.

PET BREAKS

I have a kitty named Ella. She is the fur love of my life, my BFF (best fur friend). She usually hangs out with me while I work, but I take what I like to call "kitty breaks" throughout the day. I play with her, pet her, and kiss her. She's the sweetest cat ever! If you have a pet, take your "pet breaks." Your pet will love them, too!

EAT

When you're really concentrated on your work, it's sometimes a challenge to take a break to eat. But make sure you eat, even if it's just a granola bar. Take time for yourself for a delicious lunch. I usually go out to my local cafe and grab a chicken salad sandwich and a cookie or cupcake. Plus, it helps break up the monotony of the day.

GET SOME FRESH AIR

Working from home usually means we are inside most of the day. Being cooped up inside the house all day makes me feel draggy, so I also take walks in the evening just to get some fresh air. Now if the weather is bad, I'll stay in. But if the weather is nice, I take my laptop outside and work from my back porch. So make sure you take the time to get some fresh air. It'll make you feel so much better.