Working from home as a remote writer can be a dream come true: no commute, a flexible schedule, and the comfort of writing in your own space. But let’s be honest, it can also be a health nightmare if you’re not careful. Long hours hunched over a desk, endless cups of coffee, and the temptation to work through lunch can all take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Do not worry; I’m here to share seven simple daily healthy habits for remote writers that will keep you healthy, energized, and creative throughout your writing journey.
Why should you trust me on this? Simple, I’m like you, working long hours, hunched over a computer. Finding ways to take care of the body that makes the money became paramount. If you keep reading, you will find these seven easy daily habits to be a game-changer. Remember, taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your words. So, let’s get started, shall we?
Morning healthy habits for remote writers
Start your day with movement
It’s easy to roll out of bed, grab your laptop, and dive straight into work. But that’s a fast track to sore muscles, stiff joints, and low energy. Instead, get your blood flowing for 10-15 minutes in the morning.
It doesn’t need to be a full-on workout; even a quick stretch, some yoga poses, or a short walk around your neighborhood will work wonders.
Why? Movement in the morning increases blood circulation, wakes you up, and helps you start the day with clarity. You’ll feel more focused and less likely to get distracted later. Plus, it’s the perfect way to shake off the grogginess from long hours at your desk.
Hydrate like a pro
Raise your hand if you’ve ever spent hours typing away, only to realize you haven’t had a single sip of water all day. Guilty as charged, right? It’s easy to forget hydration when you’re in the writing zone, but staying hydrated is one of the remote writers’ simplest and most effective healthy habits.
Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Keep a water bottle by your desk as a reminder. If you prefer a bit of flavor, add a slice of lemon or cucumber for a refreshing twist. Hydration is not just about quenching thirst; it helps with concentration, boosts energy, and keeps headaches at bay. So, sip away.
At work healthy habits for remote writers
Take regular screen breaks
We all know the feeling: eyes burning, shoulders aching, and the never-ending scroll of your laptop screen. It’s a real struggle, especially when deadlines are looming. But here’s the thing: sitting for long stretches and staring at a screen can wreak havoc on your health. Your body will thank you if you get up and move every 30-45 minutes.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain and gives your mind a much-needed break.
While you’re up, stretch your legs, walk around, or do a quick workout to keep your body happy. These breaks help your body and boost your creativity when you return to the keyboard.
Practice good posture
It’s so easy to slip into bad posture when you’re typing away, especially if you’ve got a comfy chair that’s a bit too cozy. However, poor posture over time can lead to back pain, neck tension, and headaches. None of these is ideal for a productive writing session for any writer.
Ensure your desk and chair are set up correctly: Your feet should be flat on the floor, your knees at a 90-degree angle, and your screen at eye level. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your wrists straight while typing.
If you’re using a laptop, consider getting a stand and an external keyboard to keep things ergonomic. It may initially feel awkward, but your body will thank you later.
Due to our workload, we often move our laptops and work to bed to make it more comfortable. While this can be soothing, remember not to make it a lifestyle. A good desk and chair remain the best places to write.
Eat balanced, nutritious meals
It’s easy to fall into the trap of snacking on junk food or skipping meals while deep into writing. But fueling your body with the proper nutrients is essential for maintaining energy levels. It also helps with mental sharpness throughout the day. After all, writing requires more brainpower than we often realize.
Therefore, start your day with a healthy breakfast, such as eggs. For lunch, choose a meal high in protein and veggies to keep you full and focused. Avoid the sugar crash by choosing snacks like healthy nuts, fruit, or yogurt instead of sugary snacks. The better the fuel, the sharper your mind will be. And trust me, your writing will thank you for it.
After work healthy habits for remote writers
End your day with relaxation
As a remote writer, switching off when your home is your office can be difficult. But winding down is just as important as your work during the day.
Moreover, taking time to relax in the evening helps your body recover and prepares you for the next day’s writing session. Set a cutoff time for work and stick to it.
Once you’re done for the day, step away from your computer and spend at least 30 minutes unwinding. You can read a book, take a warm bath, do some gentle stretches, or listen to calming music.
This signals to your brain that the workday is over and helps you sleep better, so you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle your writing goals for the next day.
Stay connected with others
Isolation can be one of the downsides of working from home, which is why I always ask writers to find a community. As a remote writer, you might spend hours without seeing another person, leading to feelings of loneliness or even burnout.
Staying connected with others is key to maintaining mental health and creativity. Engage with other people regularly, whether through virtual writing groups, online forums, or a simple chat with a friend.
This could mean joining a Zoom call with fellow writers, participating in social media conversations about writing, or even just sharing your accomplishments with a loved one. Sharing ideas and talking to others will keep you motivated and remind you that you’re not alone on this writing journey.
That said, incorporating these 7 healthy habits for remote writers into your daily routine doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your life. Just a few simple adjustments to how you work and live can help you feel more energized, focused, and inspired.
Again, trust me, as a remote writer, maintaining your health is just as important as maintaining your productivity. So, go ahead and start making these changes today. I bet your mind and body will thank you for it now and in the future.
