Desk to Dynamic: Incorporating Movement into Your Working Day
Let’s face it, most of us spend a huge chunk of the day sitting at a desk. Whether we’re answering emails, joining video calls or tackling endless to-do lists, it’s easy to get to the end of the day and realise we’ve barely moved. But weaving a bit more movement into your working hours can do wonders for your energy, mood and focus.
Why Movement Matters
Staying active during the day isn’t just about avoiding backache or stiff shoulders. Moving more can help clear your head, lift your mood and make it easier to concentrate. When you’re physically active, even in small ways, it can help break up mental fog and keep stress levels in check.
It’s not about hitting the gym on your lunch break or doing full workouts at your desk, it’s more about finding simple ways to shift your body regularly throughout the day.
Easy Ways to Get Moving
Here are a few practical ideas that can fit into most workdays, whether you're in the office or working from home:
⚡ Take regular breaks: Set a reminder to stand up and stretch once an hour. Walk to the kitchen, refill your water, or just take a lap around the room.
⚡ Try walking meetings: If a meeting doesn’t need a screen, take it on the move. A short walk can make conversations feel more relaxed and even spark better ideas.
⚡ Stretch at your desk: A few shoulder rolls or leg stretches can ease tension without needing to leave your seat.
⚡ Make the most of lunch: Get outside if you can. Even a 10-minute walk in the fresh air can help you come back feeling more refreshed.
⚡ Mix up how you work: If you’ve got access to a standing desk, try alternating between sitting and standing. It adds variety and helps with posture too.
How Employers Can Help
Of course, it’s easier to stay active when your workplace supports it. Whether that’s encouraging walking catch-ups, creating breakout spaces or simply promoting a culture that doesn’t expect people to be glued to their screens all day, it all makes a difference.
When people feel like they have permission to move and take breaks, they often feel more energised and engaged. It’s a small shift that can lead to better wellbeing across the team.
In a Nutshell
Adding more movement to your day doesn’t have to be a big effort. Small changes like standing up more often or taking meetings on the go can make a real difference to how you feel and perform at work. So, next time you catch yourself hunched over your laptop for hours, take a moment to stretch, walk or just move. Your body (and your brain) will thank you.
