Getting up and moving around is not only a part of a basic exercise routine but it can also increase your focus and attention. Stanford researchers found that walking boosts creative inspiration. They examined creativity levels of people while they walked versus while they sat. A person’s creative output increased by an average of 60 percent when walking1. Most of us sit at a desk all day so how can we incorporate walking into our job? There are a couple of options to help you get up and moving throughout your day.
- Replace smoke breaks with walking breaks – Take advantage of your morning and afternoon break by taking a quick walk. You can easily fit in at least half a mile by walking 10-15 minutes, event at a slower pace. If it’s nice outside, a quick couple of laps around the parking lot make a great escape from the indoors. If the weather isn’t so nice, most buildings have hallways that allow for easy walking loops.
- Try a walking meeting – Having a meeting that doesn’t require you to take notes, walk it out! A walking meeting is great for meetings with 1-2 people or a phone conference that you could dial into from your cell phone. (Just keep in mind if you’re discussing sensitive information, the office still may be a better choice.)
1Source: Stanford News 04/24/14
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