{"id":2151,"date":"2020-10-08T14:52:11","date_gmt":"2020-10-08T06:52:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/?p=2151"},"modified":"2020-10-08T14:52:11","modified_gmt":"2020-10-08T06:52:11","slug":"self-care-tips-for-working-from-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/self-care-tips-for-working-from-home\/","title":{"rendered":"Self-care tips for working from home"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>As the UK heads into winter, seasonal flu has taken a whole new meaning, given the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are now warning of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbc.com\/news\/uk-54212654\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">second wave of the virus<\/a>, as the number of cases sees an uptake, prompting lockdowns and restrictions in parts of the country. For the average employee, this means that working from home might be here for a little while longer.<\/p>\n<p>Even though working from home is often regarded as an employee benefit, it can take a toll on one\u2019s mental health, especially with all that\u2019s happening at the moment. If you\u2019re looking for ways to make working at home easier, this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pacific Prime UK<\/a> article is a good bet, as we\u2019ll provide you with tips for self-care at home.<\/p>\n<div class='code-block code-block-1' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPUK-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=content_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=single\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-774\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/PPUK-blog-banners-1138x493-px_02-03.jpg?resize=700%2C303&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Individual health insurance blog\" width=\"700\" height=\"303\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\n<h2>7 Self-care tips for working from home<\/h2>\n<p>Without further ado, here are 7 self-care tips for you to bear in mind if you find yourself working from home!<\/p>\n<h3>1. Mornings set the tone for the rest of your day. Practice mindfulness and get into a productive mindset.<\/h3>\n<p>One of the biggest advantages of working from home is not having to deal with the morning commute. But simply rolling out of bed and getting out your laptop to work is not advisable either. Use that extra time in the morning for self-care practices, as it\u2019ll make a difference in your state of mind:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Practice mindfulness<\/strong>: You can try guided meditation, breathing exercises, or even apps like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.calm.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Calm<\/a>. It\u2019ll help you boost your emotional resilience so you\u2019ll be ready to deal with whatever obstacle comes your way.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Get into a productive mindset:<\/strong> While you can work in pyjamas, straight out of bed, you won\u2019t <em>feel <\/em>like you\u2019re in the right frame of mind. Taking a shower, dressing the part, and allocating time for breakfast will make you feel ready to take on the world.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>2. A dedicated workspace goes a long way, so make sure you declutter, feel comfortable, and add nice touches!<\/h3>\n<p>You should ideally have a dedicated workspace in your home. Without this, it\u2019ll be challenging to achieve a work-life balance, which can be detrimental to your mental health. If you don\u2019t have a home office, you can just keep your work to one designated area and close the door on it when you\u2019re done for the day. Another good work from home tip is to spruce up this working area:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Declutter:<\/strong> By decluttering your workspace, you\u2019re also decluttering your mind. It\u2019ll help you cut out the distractions and work optimally at home. In addition to decluttering, you can also go a step further to make things super organised.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Think about comfort:<\/strong> If you\u2019re not comfortable at your workspace, you\u2019re not going to be able to work effectively. Look at your chair set up, lighting, the way your screen is positioned, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><strong>Add nice touches: <\/strong><\/strong>Whether it\u2019s a plant, flowers, or more, adding nice touches to your workspace can do wonders for your mental health. What\u2019s more, you can also use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-aromatherapy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">aromatherapy<\/a> to help you feel energised, uplifted, and clear-headed while working<strong>. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>3. It\u2019s all about the routines during times of uncertainty and stress.<\/h3>\n<p>As per a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellmind.com\/the-importance-of-keeping-a-routine-during-stressful-times-4802638#mntl-sc-block_1-0-8:~:text=A%20Sudden%20Lack%20of%20Structure\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Very Well Mind<\/a> article, an online resource for mental health information, psychologist Dr Rachel Goldman says: \u201cWhen people don\u2019t have a routine or structure to their day, it can cause increased stress and anxiety, as well as overwhelming feelings, lack of concentration, and focus\u201d. Therefore, you should strive to incorporate routines.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Conduct simple everyday activities<\/strong>: Don\u2019t discount simply everyday activities in helping you create a feeling of regularity and rhythm. These include making your bed, tidying your workspace, taking a shower, eating a healthy breakfast, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Make a work plan and take breaks: <\/strong>If you\u2019ve got different tasks to do, making a work plan and setting goals can help you avoid procrastination, multitasking, and motivate you to get things done. Additionally, accounting for regular breaks can also help.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Create rituals:<\/strong> You could even take part in self-care rituals like having a bath, lighting a candle with an energising scent, etc. It\u2019ll help signify the end of your work day and transition into leisure time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>4. Don\u2019t let work spill into leisure time. Use that time without screens and to stay active.<\/h3>\n<p>Perhaps the most vital work from home tip is to strive to achieve a work-life balance. When you\u2019re working and relaxing in the same space, it can be difficult to switch off, but nonetheless very important. Set manageable rules, such as not answering emails after a certain time. Moreover, ensure you take into account these wellness tips for leisure:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cut down on screen time: <\/strong>After spending all day on your screens, try and make some time to get away from it. Go for a walk, bake, paint, read, or take part in any other positive leisure activity.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Staying active:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/nutrition\/10-benefits-of-exercise\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Exercising regularly<\/a> is great to get those endorphins flowing. If you\u2019re unable to go out (due to health concerns), you can try online fitness classes, yoga, or any number of indoor exercises.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>5. You are what you eat. Avoid sugary nibbles in favour of healthier alternatives.<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re feeling stressed, anxious, or even bored, it can be tempting to reach for that bag of crisps or your favourite chocolate bar. But, this is not a good strategy in the long-run. As the popular saying goes, you are what you eat, so eat wholesome, nutritious foods. Check out the British Nutrition Foundation\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nutrition.org.uk\/healthyliving\/helpingyoueatwell\/snacking.html?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=101aed77fce08b36cbdf9ac3443e1522868dd9e7-1602126864-0-AdH0pScizd_GQJhHuOE5BlJZOA2k--EFbsIKVKxrZQiC2BR2VUyMUpjHPZv2XrVAOHP13LGNTcTOD8JeqET4oWz9heB8mCjrHtpzdIAIqjlGmssVzWbI3Ci9925DOpRZNG9gZpQEdT5OMPfvDgriG3ZyvMAhVkDqPcLqpz7GlLFRs6FDRAam4laHIW3dbzxSZEa0Z-QwrhviQ8Ft3fc0herh2ZHx_eUqa7Hh6yccOx2U5dVSlL3H_DvBHI1qASE0tD5RcuRHUtW8y3K1-7QxQONQTumC__PF_OJ5tnC1gjRrDb4Q1uhZN0jwvaFkB7--1ldALCgTyp4v0fWTHFr1Vpwa6TOJqZhnK1lFUzaiWKxXKSQzkfv5ATVrdDRoEXhJsPkKO-UnIEupVba9JYl_dy4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tips for healthy snacking<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>6. Social distancing doesn\u2019t mean anti-social. Find ways to connect with people and go outside.<\/h3>\n<p>The best way to be safe at the moment is to social distance, but this is bad for our mental health as we\u2019re social creatures that need to connect with people. Especially if you\u2019re living on your own, make sure you have a support network made up of family and friends. Here are ideas of what you can do:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><strong>Video call and get creative: <\/strong><\/strong>Even if you can\u2019t meet loved ones, you can set up video calls instead. You can also get creative by arranging film dates or other activities. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.netflixparty.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Netflix Party<\/a> is an extension that allows you to watch films with friends!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><strong>Step outside: <\/strong><\/strong>Being cooped up in your house all day isn\u2019t great for your mental health. Go outside if you can, especially if it\u2019s a nice day. Getting fresh air can make you feel refreshed and recharged.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>7. Wind down properly at the end of the day, as nothing beats a good night&#8217;s sleep.<\/h3>\n<p>Finally, when it&#8217;s time to call it a night, make sure you wind down properly. You can try journaling, as that\u2019ll help you empty your head onto the paper. Or even a gratitude diary to help you focus on the positives, which is important given the current state of the world. Alternatively, try meditation or listening to calming music. Find what works for you, helps you relax, and get a good night\u2019s sleep.<\/p>\n<h2>Consider health insurance as a way to prioritize your health and wellbeing<\/h2>\n<p>Now, more than ever, health should be a priority. While all legal residents can access the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/an-overview-of-the-united-kingdom-healthcare-system\/#menu-item-23:~:text=The%20NHS,-All\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">NHS<\/a>, and many employees can go private using their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/plans\/group\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">group health insurance plan<\/a>, it\u2019s worth securing your own health insurance plan in the UK. The NHS is plagued with long wait times, while group health insurance plans aren\u2019t always the most comprehensive, and they\u2019re also tied to your job.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for health insurance plans in the UK, whether it\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/plans\/individual\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">expat health insurance<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/plans\/family\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">family health insurance<\/a>, or more, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/compare-health-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">compare health insurance plans<\/a> through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pacific Prime UK<\/a>. As a brokerage, we have long-standing partnerships with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/insurers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">top local and global insurers<\/a>, enabling us to help you find the right plan for your needs and budgets.<\/p>\n<p>We also have expert insurance advisors on hand who are ready to provide you with impartial advice, a free quote, and support even after you\u2019ve secured a health insurance plan! Did we mention that we provide this service at no additional cost to you versus going direct to the insurer? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Contact us<\/a> today to learn more!<\/p>\n<div class='code-block code-block-6' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/compare-quotes\/step-one\/?campSource=PPUK-Blog&utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta_banner&utm_campaign=banner&utm_content=quote\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-781\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/PPUK_quote-image-01-1.jpg?resize=700%2C303&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Get an Insurance quote banner\" width=\"700\" height=\"303\" \/><\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As the UK heads into winter, seasonal flu has taken a whole new meaning, given the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are now warning of a second wave of the virus, as the number of cases sees an uptake, prompting lockdowns and restrictions in parts of the country. For the average employee, this means that working from &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":2152,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[767,768,38,335,1270,1271],"class_list":["post-2151","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health","tag-ban_sin","tag-cta_gen","tag-health-insurance","tag-mental-health","tag-self-care","tag-wellness"],"acf":[],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/workspace.jpg?fit=1140%2C495&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pcnTsc-yH","amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2151","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2151"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2151\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2153,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2151\/revisions\/2153"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2152"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2151"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2151"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2151"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}