Essential WFH Health Tips from Dr. Lizzie Kiefer

DR. LIZZIE KIEFER - DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

This week we are featuring Dr. Lizzie Kiefer, DPT, to give you tips on how to stay physically fit and mentally stimulated whether you’re working from home or in the office.

WORK FROM HOME AND OFFICE MOBILITY

Sitting in a constant position for an extended period of time can cause tightness and stiffness throughout the body. Using Dr. Lizzie Kiefer's tips will help you create a great work enviornment for your body and mind.

“It's easy to get lost and lose focus on your posture when you’re concentrating on your screen. One of the easiest ways to avoid stiffness throughout the body is to do back extensions in your chair."

DESK POSTURE

“It's easy to get lost and lose focus on your posture when you’re concentrating on your screen."

As Dr. Lizzie Kiefer notes that desk posture is an issue that may occur from investing so much time working on one's computer screen. It’s important to focus on mobility and desk posture and to be mindful of these factors throughout the day when working from home. According to Dr. Kiefer, one of the easiest ways to avoid stiffness throughout the body is to do back extensions in your chair.

FUEL UP & TAKE MENTAL BREAKS

"Be sure to have a constant supply of cool, fresh water and some snacks for your afternoon pickme-up."

The Cooluli Vibe 15L is a perfect desk companion. It can cool down 35–40 degrees below ambient temperature and can fit up to 18 twelve-ounce cans. Taking regular breaks throughout the day helps alleviate any mental—and physical—strain. Plus, keeping a Cooluli mini fridge nearby offers ease and convenience for quick breaks when you need them.

SCHEDULE MOVEMENTS THROUGHOUT YOUR DAY TO KEEP YOUR BODY FROM BEING STIFF

Moving your whole body, including your neck and fingers, limbers up your muscles and gets the blood flowing—so it’s important to schedule these physical breaks throughout the day. The dry erase board on your Cooluli Vibe allows you to easily map out optimal times where you can fit in these quick stretching and warm-up exercises throughout the day.

Using the dry erase board for your “Movement Schedule” will allow you to visualize and actively space out time to stretch and move. Stand-up back extensions are one of Dr.Lizze’s favorite moves. Standing allows for optimal extension and gives your legs a chance to stretch. "Using this compound movement will help stretch out the back and legs," says Dr. Kiefer. Do these extensions 15 times for the best results. Watch the video to check out how to correctly do this movement.

You can also adapt these stretches and do them straight from your seat—or anywhere in your home or office—if more space and privacy are needed.