As the world navigates unchartered territory struck by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the rest of us lucky enough to have a job are getting adjusted to the new norm: working from home (WFH).
If you're new to WFH, you might notice you tend to stay in bed until the last minute and spend the rest of the day in your pyjamas.
Don't worry: you're only human and in this post we'll take a closer look into your internal body clock to find out how you can maximise your productivity.
Whether you're a night owl or an early bird (or perhaps both), your "Circadian Rhythm" is in action and you ought to tune in so that you can unlock the very best version of yourself.
Hack 1 - Monitor your body and adjust your schedule accordingly
As the name suggests, the key is finding your rhythm. Each one of us are wired differently, so take a day or two to put your assumptions to the test.
Do you notice a pattern in the way you tackle your day?
Do you notice a period of time when you are feeling more attentive, sleepy or hungry?
Do you prefer a few short breaks or one longer break?
Subject to any employment agreement you have with your boss, you might want to experiment being more flexible and taking advantage of certain times when you're going to perform at your optimum.
Check out the chart below and see how it applies to you. Around 10am, consider making the more important decisions as your cortisol hormone will be high and make you more alert.
Hack 2 -Take yourself for a walk
Keep it moving! Your legs are going to get restless sitting in just one spot and I know you miss those long walks to the local coffee shop 😉.
Find the perfect time to pump those juices and come back to your laptop with relieved eyes and a breath of fresh air.
If we analyse our internal body clock, we can see the direct impact of light or lack thereof.
Therefore, the trick is to expose yourself to more sunlight.
Give it a go when you start to dip in the afternoon and if it's a rainy day, make the extra effort because the odds are stacked against you.
3 - Get a good night's sleep
We are deeply passionate about sleep and the important role it plays in a wholesome and healthy lifestyle.
The more sleep you get, the less you'll experience the peaks and troughs of your internal body clock.
Not to mention, sleep is critical to the strength of your white blood cells.
"There’s a significant body of research to show that immune function is tied closely to the body’s 24-hour circadian clock. When sleep is deprived, this cycle is weakened and disrupted, and the immune system suffers," (Michael J. Breus, PhD, 2012).
If you're struggling to get the optimal 7-8 hours sleep (and that must be a good amount of you according to Deloitte Access Economics), call 1800 577 569 today and speak with one of our friendly Sleep Specialists.
Hack 4 - Create an ergonomic environment
Let's face it, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) will spark some dramatic shifts in behaviour and community values.
Separating work from home life will be nearly impossible, which is why it's important to create an ergonomic environment conducive to work and performance.
If you ask us, that means dual screen monitors, a wide desk, comfortable office chair and plenty of greenery with exposure to natural lighting.
However, when it comes to ergonomics, one size truly does not fit all.
If you find yourself with limited space and encroaching on your safe haven, you might find greater comfort with an adjustable bed that contours to your natural body shape and relieves tension at your pressure points.
Coupled with revitalising vibration therapy, a Superior Lifestyle adjustable bed makes the perfect companion during these next few months of social distancing.