Between 2019 and 2021, the number of people working from home tripled to nearly 18% in the United States. If your home is your primary workspace, it’s important to make sure you have a relaxing environment that’s conducive to great productivity. Try these strategies.
Bring On the Greenery
Add plants to your home office to create a healthier, happier, and more relaxing environment. A study by the University of Technology Sydney found that a green wall featuring a variety of indoor plants removed 97% of the most harmful indoor pollutants in only eight hours. These pollutants can cause headaches, nausea, lung irritation, and an increased risk of cancer. Having plants in the room helps increase attention span and memory by 20%. Plants also improve mood, increase energy levels, support better mental health, and reduce stress.
Light It Up
Natural light is the most coveted workplace amenity in the United States. One study found that the absence of natural light in the workplace made 47% of employees feel tired and 43% of employees feel gloomy. Taking a visual break is a welcome relief for workers who have to look at a screen for hours on end. Add custom made blinds to your home office to allow ample light in while filtering out any disruptive rays like bright morning light.
Create Pleasant Aromas
Unpleasant aromas can be distracting when you’re trying to work. Plants help purify the air while thoughtfully chosen essential oils can enhance the environment. Rosemary stimulates the brain, boosting memory, focus, and productivity. Lemongrass increases energy. Bergamot and geranium are great mood-boosters that are invigorating enough to keep you engaged while you’re working.
Use an essential oil diffuser to add your preferred scents to the air. You can change the aromas to suit your mood for the day, opting for something bright and exhilarating when you need to perk up and using more soothing scents when you’re feeling stressed. You can even create your own custom blends.
Use the Right Hues
The paint shade that you use can impact the way your workspace feels. Blue is great for boosting productivity while also offering a soothing feel. Yellow is known for enhancing your mood and inspiring bursts of creativity. Green is great for a workspace because it’s associated with wealth and abundance. Green also creates feelings of security and calmness.
Incorporate Ergonomic Seating
Use ergonomic seating in your home office to create a comfortable space that you can look forward to using. An ergonomic desk chair can allow you to work all day without developing back pain, stiff shoulders, or neck problems. Ideally, your seating will:
• Support your lower back.
• Allow you to easily reach the keyboard with elbows bent at 90 degrees.
• Feature the proper height so your feet are flat on the floor.
• Have a seat that’s 2 to 4 inches deep.
With these quick tips, you can upgrade your home office from minimally functional to truly desirable when it’s time to work. Investing in your home office now can pay off big in enhanced performance, productivity, and personal happiness.
