As a London office manager, you can see how workplace habits shape our health. Science confirms what many of us suspect – our office environment plays a huge role in our wellbeing. Let’s look at what research tells us about creating spaces that help rather than harm our health.
The Natural Light Factor
Working in rooms without windows affects us more than we might think. A pilot study found that staff working near natural light sleep an extra 46 minutes each night compared to those in windowless spaces. They also stay more active throughout the day and report better overall life satisfaction.
Food for Thought
What we eat at work matters enormously. In our office, we made the switch to having fresh fruit delivered by Fruitful Office every week and the change in staff energy and focus has been obvious for all to see.
Of course this is nothing new to most of us, after all the British Journal of Nutrition has been telling us for years that regular fruit consumption boosts brain power and fights mental fatigue. The trick is improving the accessibility of these healthy snacks in high stress, impulse-eating environment (such as the office).
The right fruits bring different benefits:
- Blueberries enhance memory and concentration
- Oranges pack vitamin C that cuts through stress
- Bananas balance mood and maintain focus
- Apples provide steady energy without sugar crashes
- Grapes offer quick, natural energy boosts
Plants: More Than Just Pretty
Adding greenery to your workspace brings real benefits. Research from Exeter University revealed that offices with natural elements see on average a 15% jump in productivity. Plants clean our air, reduce stress levels, and create a calmer working space.
Creating Movement in Static Spaces
Our bodies aren’t built for sitting still all day. Simple changes can make a big difference:
- Stand-up meetings keep energy levels high
- Walking breaks every hour boost blood flow
- Stretch zones give staff space to move
- Standing desks offer flexibility
- Active lunch breaks refresh mind and body
The Air We Breathe
Clean air helps clear thinking. Good ventilation might seem basic, but it makes a real difference to how we work. Adding air-purifying plants like peace lilies or spider plants helps clean the air naturally.
Temperature Sweet Spot
Nobody works well when they’re too hot or cold. The ideal office temperature sits around 22°C (71.6°F). Getting this right keeps everyone comfortable and productive.
Practical Steps for Better Health
Here’s what works:
- Position desks near windows
- Add plenty of plants
- Keep fresh fruit easily available
- Create spaces for movement
- Check ventilation regularly
- Watch office temperature
- Encourage regular breaks
The Business Impact
These changes bring real results. Better office environments cut sick days, reduce staff turnover, and boost productivity. They show staff you value their health and happiness.
Simple changes based on solid science can transform our workspaces. When we create offices that support health, everyone benefits – from improved energy levels to better work quality.
The evidence points clearly to what helps: natural light, clean air, healthy snacks, and chances to move. These aren’t expensive luxuries – they’re essential ingredients for a productive, healthy workplace.
What changes could your office make this week? Sometimes the smallest shifts bring the biggest benefits.
