For most of us, the demands of a bustling office environment mean that we’re glued to our desks for hours on end. However, even amidst the hustle and bustle of the corporate world, there are numerous desk exercises to relieve stress. So, before you succumb to another bout of tension headaches or a stiff neck, consider incorporating these easy-to-do exercises right at your workstation.
1. Neck Rolls
How it helps: Alleviates tension in the neck and shoulders.
How to do it:
- Sit up straight.
- Slowly tilt your head to one side, aiming to touch your ear to your shoulder (don’t force it).
- Rotate your head in a circular motion, going from one shoulder to the front, then to the other shoulder, and finally to the back.
- Do 3-5 rotations in one direction, then switch.
2. Wrist Stretches
How it helps: It reduces wrist strain, especially useful for those who type a lot.
How to do it:
- Extend one arm in front of you with the palm facing up.
- With the opposite hand, gently press down on the extended hand’s fingers, stretching the wrist.
- Hold for 10-15 seconds, then switch sides.
3. Torso Twist
How it helps: It enhances flexibility and releases tension in the spine.
How to do it:
- Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor.
- Place your left hand on the outside of your right knee.
- Twist your torso to the right and hold the back of your chair with your right hand.
- Hold for 15-20 seconds, then switch sides.
4. Ankle Rolls
How it helps: It increases circulation and reduces ankle stiffness.
How to do it:
- Lift one foot off the floor.
- Rotate your ankle in a circular motion.
- Do 10 rolls in one direction, then switch to the opposite direction and foot.
5. Shoulder Shrugs
How it helps: It eases shoulder tension and stiffness.
How to do it:
- Sit or stand with a straight posture.
- Lift your shoulders towards your ears, squeezing them tightly.
- Hold for 2-3 seconds, then relax and drop them down.
- Repeat 10 times.
6. Deep Breathing
How it helps: it reduces stress, boosts oxygen intake, and calms the mind.
How to do it:
- Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
- Take a deep breath in through your nose, expanding your diaphragm and filling your lungs.
- Exhale slowly and fully through your mouth.
- Repeat for 1-2 minutes.
Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can make a remarkable difference in how you feel. Just a few minutes can relieve stress, break the monotony, and refresh you for the tasks ahead. Embrace workstation wellness and feel the positive impacts on your productivity and well-being!
We’ve teamed up with a fitness consultant who provides online and in-person fitness classes from yoga and pilates, to HIIT and Personal Training. If you’re interested in providing this service to your employees, then read more here and book a consultation call.
