How many hours do you work each week? Americans on average spend 47 hours a week at work, more than any other industrialized country. Americans work on average 137 more hours per year than Japanese workers, 260 more hours per year than British workers, and 499 more hours per year than French workers! Four in 10 Americans say they work more than 50 hours every week, with two in 10 saying that they work more than 60 hours.
Unfortunately, long hours are hard health-wise on the person doing all that work. Sitting for long hours, for example, can put a large amount of stress on your back muscles, neck, and spine. It’s a risk factor for lower back pain. That’s why we wanted to share with you five steps to a healthier workweek:
Aim for less than 10 hours of work a day. Several studies show that more than 10 hours of work a day dramatically increases your risk of cardiovascular and other health issues. One study, for example, concluded that working 10-plus hours each day results in a 60 percent increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease. Another study linked long workdays with an increased likelihood of back and spinal issues.
Get up and move around. It’s difficult when you work in an office not to sit all day. But studies show that it’s hazardous to our health to sit for much of an 8-hour workday. Make it a goal to stand up or walk around for several minutes once every half an hour or hour. Take a walk during your lunch hour, in the morning, and/or in the evenings. Try some stretches. Consider trying a standing desk for a part of your workday.
Unplug from work. That means no work-related phone calls or email for specified times throughout the week. Consider making at least part of your weekend a time you don’t do any work. The key is to set specific times and stick with them — even if it’s only an hour at a time. Try to incorporate physical activity into your time off.
Take vacations. Americans take on average only 16 days of vacation each year, down from 20 days a year. More than half of all Americans do not take all of their vacation time each year. Studies show that vacation time — even if spent at home — helps us recharge and boosts our productivity.
Get relief from pain. Do you suffer from joint stiffness, aches and/or pains? We can analyze, identify and address the source of your pain or discomfort and help you find relief. Our goal is to provide better healing, long-term relief and fewer office visits so you can live your best life.
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