Working from home does have its advantages. We are talking about flexible timings, less commute stress and geographical independence. But there’s a flip side to it as well. Prolonged work-from-home could also impact your overall wellbeing and lead to fatigue and loss of efficiency. Not meeting your colleagues and not visiting your workplace for a long time can also create a sense of isolation.
But what if we tell you there’s a way around this? According to research, certain activities help boost happy hormones in the body. So, what are happy hormones? These hormones include dopamine, endorphins, serotonin and oxytocin. It’s the secretion of these hormones that makes you feel good and positive.
While it was significantly easier for the body to provide a steady supply of these hormones under regular circumstances, it is not so difficult while working from home either. All you need to do is, incorporate all or some of the following activities into your lifestyle, to boost your happy hormones and create a positive work environment at home.
ALSO READ: Stay Fit While WFH With These Simple Exercises
It is a well-known fact that exercising, especially running, boosts endorphins in the body. While it may not be possible to go for a run outside, you can definitely try walking on the terrace or do some light exercises and stretches. This not just boosts endorphins but also helps with the secretion of dopamine and serotonin.
Yoga can also help improve the blood flow and get those happy hormones pumping. Research suggests that exposure to sunlight can increase the levels of certain happy hormones. So, you should definitely consider spending some time exercising in the early morning or evening sunlight.
Attention foodies! Yes, you read that right. Food is perhaps the easiest way to boost all your happy hormones. Cook your favourite meal at home or order in. Enjoy comfort food with a loved one and eat to your heart’s content because that will definitely make you happy. Research suggests that spicy food can lead to the release of endorphins while meats, eggs and yoghurt can boost dopamine levels in the body. So, what are you waiting for? Get munching!
ALSO READ: Easy Work-From-Home Hacks to Help Boost Your Productivity & Motivation Levels
Share a laugh with a friend, loved one or colleagues. This not only boosts your happy hormones but also creates a positive work environment. Watch something funny online with your friends and colleagues. Watch parties are a thing now, isn’t it? Discovered a new cat video? Share it with your circle and have a laugh about it. As they say, laughter is the best medicine and while it might not cure any illness, it will definitely help ease some of the stress and anxiety.
There’s nothing that a good night’s sleep can’t fix, and there’s a reason why. Sleeping boosts hormones like dopamine and a lack of sleep can lead to an imbalance of the same. You may have noticed that people get irritated and cranky when they don’t get enough sleep. It is important to sleep at least seven to nine hours every day.
But how to ensure that you get a good night’s rest? Reduce screen time after you finish work and if you’re a lover of caffeine, ensure that you don’t drink it late into the evening. This will ensure that you sleep on time and get some much-needed rest.
ALSO READ: Here’s How You Can Manage Good Nutrition While Working From Home
If you love listening to music, you’re already halfway there when it comes to creating a positive work environment at home. Instrumental music, especially, is known to be a huge booster for dopamine levels. Think about the symphonies and melodies composed by maestros that can induce goosebumps! Well, these melodies are a great way to secrete happy hormones too. Play music in the background while you work. If you loved playing an instrument, it’s time to reignite that love. Perform for your friends and colleagues, even if it is over a video call. It will not only improve your mood but also theirs, and it will be a welcome departure from the monotony.
Like what you read? Head to Life at BYJU’S to learn more about our work, people, and the stories that make us unique. To explore job opportunities, check out Careers at BYJU’S.
Bidushi took a left turn from journalism and landed up in the corporate world. She is a foodie and considers eating good food amongst the greatest joys of life. Keen on travelling and exploring new places, Bidushi has spent the last four years of her life in three different Indian cities. But she has also learned that her bedroom is her happy place. Screens relax her greatly — whether it's watching a movie or a TV show or reading a riveting bestseller on her e-reader. A cheerful person, she prides herself on making friends easily. When not working, Bidushi can be found spending time with her parents, talking to her friends over a call, or browsing the internet for that one lipstick!