Writing at mid-morning, I am focused. The only sound is the computer keys as I type, and my awareness of even that noise fades as words appear on the screen. Sitting up straight – not hunched – helps to maintain concentration while fingers fly over the keys (thanks to eleventh grade typing back in the 1980s). Otherwise, I am still, save for flexing my mind. But one can only be stationary for so long before concentration and creative productivity wanes; the body requires periodic flexing too!
It is possible to sit at the computer for hours if you are really in an editing or copywriting groove (or for any computer work-related reason). But again, those diminishing returns. Better to get up every half hour or so and … do what? Stand up for a few minutes while you get a fresh cup of coffee or tea, then sit right back work?
No! It is better to move around – and you absolutely can fit exercise into your work routine. Literally! As in, beyond scheduling a half hour or so for power walking, running, cycling or whatever is your preferred mode of working out.
***** PAUSE TO STAND AND MOVE IN A MEANINGFUL WAY *****
Back now! Allow me to explain: I did go make a cup of hot tea. And while the water was boiling, the tea steeping and then cooling down, I power walked down the stairs to and around the basement (and then back up again) for about ten minutes. Not the fastest power walk, but one that provided an attention jump-start to the engine of my mind, allowing work with renewed productive gusto on the editing and/or copywriting project at hand (like this article).
My on-the-spot exercise plan may not be your solution. Everyone’s answer is different, and there’s no “right” way! The point is, figuring out a drill that fits well within your particular job surroundings will help make a habit of the practice … and enhance your effectiveness throughout the workday!
For additional context, I recommend listening to the inspiration for this article, a recent WHYY Radio Times broadcast entitled “The science of fitness and how to make it a habit.”
Pamela Barroway 
I do on-the-spot exercise as well!!
I actually have one of those spinning balance boards that was featured on Shark Tank a year ago or so tucked against the wall by my microwave in the kitchen. And whenever I go to use the microwave for anything (fixing the kids lunch, reheating my coffee or tea or lunch, heating up the baby’s bottle, etc) I hop on and do the twist for the entire 30 seconds to 5 minutes I’m waiting there. It’s not a lot, but it’s usually enough to make me feel like my juices are flowing again.
Great post!!
LikeLike
Thanks, I’m glad you enjoyed it. Also, I saw that episode of Shark Tank! That board is like an updated version of something my mom kept in our home in the 1970s. But really, anything you can do to get moving is a good thing. I power walk around my basement and up / down the stairs.
LikeLike