Pre-COVID-19, work from home is simply an option, a flexible work schedule offered for employees with particular circumstances. But almost all companies shifted to it due to the pandemic. The setup is on its way to becoming the new normal. Many companies are publicly considering turning into a remote-first culture. Given that, most of us have to face the possibility that we’ll be working from home for a long period.
The quarantines started in March, so you’ve most likely adjusted to your current work setting. But if you still work at your dining table, or have turned your bedroom into a makeshift office with clutter all around, then you need to invest in new essentials.
These items won’t only improve your work-from-home experience, but will also give way to self-care. It can be hard to balance being a worker and being yourself when you work from home, so save up for these essentials and feel good again:
1. A Proper Work Desk
Your work desk should be suitable for your job. It doesn’t need to be expensive, just sturdy and user-friendly. For architects, no other than an architecture table is right for you, but the table can also suit other professionals, as it can fit a laptop and a notebook well. The tabletop also inclines, making it ergonomic.
Speaking of ergonomic, if your job requires you to sit all day, choose a desk with adjustable heights. You can keep the height at around 24.5 inches while sitting and raise it to 50 inches when standing. That way, you’ll have the choice to stretch your legs from time to time.
2. Office Chair
Of course, your chair has to be ergonomically-correct as well. You have to be comfortable with it, considering that you sit around eight hours every day.
Choose an office chair with wheels, a supportive mesh back, and an upholstered seat. The heights have to be adjustable, and the whole chair itself must be durable.
Also, if you’ll adjust your desk to allow a standing position, you might need an ergonomic stool, too, to rest your feet without lowering your desk again.
3. Cushion
If you already own an office chair, maybe a cushion will add more comfort. It can also support your back better. A cushion, particularly a gel one, is an inexpensive way to upgrade your existing chair.
4. Massage Chair
To amplify and put relaxation to the next level, order a high-quality massage chair and place it in your bedroom or home office. You can take short breaks from work to indulge in it or use it before sleeping.
Massage chairs are an investment. They lighten your mood, ease the stress from work, and improve your posture, which enhances your attentiveness in turn. Moreover, they can aid in better digestion, skin care, immune system, and lymphatic system. Simply put, you’re taking care of your overall health by having a massage chair.
5. Pressure Point Dome
Sitting in front of a computer causes tension in the base of your head, your face, and your hand. To soothe those areas while working, buy a pressure point dome, which is a soft, silicone material with pointed edges that’ll stimulate your nerve endings. As a result, your headaches will be treated, and your hands will feel more relaxed.
6. Essential Oil Diffuser
Scents can make a world of difference in your work environment. They also improve your sleep. To boost productivity, choose among lemon, jasmine, lavender, rosemary, cinnamon, and peppermint. After working, fill your bedroom with bergamot, lemongrass, neroli, orange, or yuzu scents. Lemon and lavender also aid in alleviating stress.
These essentials are just for starters, as you’ll need more in the long run. Don’t skimp on these items because having a dedicated workspace with useful things is beneficial for your mental health as well.
