Working from home has become the new normal for many of us, and chances are you’re still figuring out the best way to set up your workspace. You might also be feeling a bit stiff or uncomfortable after sitting for hours. What if you could create a home office that not only helps you get more done but also encourages you to move, easing those aches and pains? With a few smart adjustments, this is totally achievable. Plus, these improvements can even carry over to your regular office setup whenever you go back!
It’s good to move more, not just for stress relief as health organizations suggest, but for your overall well-being. We can’t always stop for a long walk or a full workout during the workday. But staying glued to your desk for hours can really take a toll. A good middle ground is to incorporate small movements throughout your day. Health expert Katy Bowman emphasizes that simply exercising for an hour and then sitting still for the rest of the day isn’t enough for long-term health. Instead, she recommends ‘sprinkling’ movement into your day with small things like arm raises or calf stretches. She even has ideas for setting up a "dynamic workstation" that naturally encourages you to move more often.
This guide will help you set up your workspace in three main steps: first, by making it easy to move; second, by boosting your productivity; and finally, by adding your personal touch.
Step 1: Building a Movement-Rich Dynamic Workstation
You can turn almost any tall piece of furniture into a standing desk, but a good option is an affordable, adjustable, and rolling standing desk.
Another idea is a height-adjustable riser that sits on top of your current desk. Some even look nice with a wood-like finish, have a phone slot, and can hold two monitors.
If you mostly use a laptop, a simple stand can elevate your screen to eye level, helping with posture and keeping your desk tidy.
An anti-fatigue mat is great for standing desks. It not only makes standing more comfortable for longer, but many also have features to encourage foot and calf movement. Keeping your feet strong helps your whole body, and some mats even have tilted edges for calf stretches, which are important for your knees, ankles, pelvis, and lower back. Plus, some come with a massage ball for your feet!
To add more movement while standing, an adjustable wobble board can be fun. You can customize the challenge by changing how much air is in its cushion.
For a change of pace, a low, foldable table is great for working while sitting on the floor. It gives you plenty of space for your legs and work. You could even get creative and modify a small table you already have to the right height.
When sitting on the floor, a meditation cushion can help keep your posture correct, supporting your spine in its natural S-shape rather than slouching. While you can use regular pillows, a cushion designed for floor sitting is a worthwhile investment for long-term comfort.
Yoga blocks are handy for supporting you when sitting on the floor or for doing various stretches during short breaks.
If a dynamic workstation isn’t for you right now, here are some ideas for a traditional desk setup.
A good office chair with an ergonomic mesh back can keep you comfortable and cool. Look for features like pneumatic seat adjustment and 360-degree swivel.
To improve almost any chair, an adjustable lumbar back support can help maintain your spine’s natural curve. Many have breathable mesh fabric to prevent sweatiness.
Step 2: Make It Efficient for Work
A comfy and dynamic workstation is great, but it also needs to be a place where you can actually get work done efficiently. Here are some ideas to make your desk more organized and productive.
To keep your documents organized and your supplies safe from curious kids or pets, a stylish, lockable filing cabinet with drawers is a great idea.
A clear plexiglass dry erase board can help you visualize your tasks and progress, making it easier to stay focused. You could even create one yourself.
To keep your desk neat and your devices charged, a dedicated dock for your headphones, phone, and other gadgets is super helpful, preventing tangled cords.
Noise-canceling headphones are a must if you’re working in a busy household or with noisy neighbors. High-quality ones, like certain popular models, also work well as a discreet microphone for calls.
If those are too pricey, there are many other affordable noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones that get the job done.
A dedicated desk lamp is crucial. Overhead lights or decorative lamps in the corner usually aren’t enough for long hours of work. Look for lamps designed to be "eye-friendly," which reduce glare and offer various light settings.
A separate monitor, like a 24-inch one, can provide much-needed extra screen space when your laptop screen feels too small.
You can also use a tablet like an iPad as an extra screen, or try apps that let you extend your display across different devices.
For coffee lovers, a Nespresso machine is a worthwhile investment for a quick and easy cup of coffee, just like in a traditional office.
If you prefer something more special, try making delicious cold brew coffee at home with a dedicated pot.
While not strictly necessary, a timer can be a visually appealing and effective way to manage your time. You can use an hourglass for 30-minute work periods followed by short breaks, or a silent visual timer for techniques like the Pomodoro method (25 minutes work, 5 minutes rest). These can also be great visual cues for children, helping them understand when it’s okay to interrupt.
Step 3: Now Add Style!
Your home workspace is yours for a while, so make it comfortable and stylish! This is your chance to add personal touches without worrying about typical office rules.
To add personality and define your space, consider framing some bold or classic art prints.
Plants do more than just make your desk look nice; they can actually help you focus. Just remember to pick a plant that suits your light conditions and watering habits. If you’re not a green thumb, a good quality fake plant works wonders too.
For a touch of elegance and convenience, especially for end-of-week virtual happy hours, a compact and stylish bar cart can be a great addition.
After a long day, a comfortable armchair, perhaps with a classic, mid-century design, is perfect for unwinding.
One of the perks of working from home is comfort. Warm wool slippers with a rubber sole mean your feet stay cozy, and you can even step outside briefly without changing shoes.
Believe it or not, a rug can actually boost your productivity. It helps your brain recognize that you’re entering your "work zone." Creating visual boundaries, perhaps with tall plants or a room divider, helps separate your home life from your work life, even when they’re in the same physical space.