The end of the year and the holiday season can be very stressful at the office as well as at home. If you sit and type all day and never take a break, your muscles will become stiff and fatigued. That’s why it is so important to get up and move around, hourly if possible. Obviously we’re not suggesting you take long 10 – 15 minute breaks every hour, because your supervisor might not appreciate that. But it is a very good idea to get up from your chair and walk away from your desk for a few minutes each hour. This will keep your blood circulating and help your muscles relax. Giving all of your muscles a good brief stretch every hour or so is also beneficial, and doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are three easy ways to keep your body in good shape so that your typing speed and productivity stay high all day long – and so your spirits remain high as well!

Exercise #1 – Stretch Your Feet. To stretch your feet, simply lift them off the ground, then point your toes and hold that position for a few seconds. Then flex your feet up and hold. Repeat. You can also move your feet around in a circular direction with toes pointed, and then reverse direction.

Exercise #2 – Stretch Your Hands. Finger stretches are easy to do. Simply spread apart the fingers in each hand as far as you can without causing pain and hold for a few seconds. You can even move each of your fingers around as you do this. You can also extend your hands as far out to the sides as you can and then up over your head. Hand and wrist massages will help circulation and alleviate stiffness.

Exercise #3 – Just Breathe.

Taking several slow, deep breaths throughout the day is another effective way to alleviate muscle tension and stress. As an added benefit, it sends oxygen to your brain to keep you mentally sharp and focused. If you do this deep breathing while doing any simple stretching exercises, you’ll increase the blood and oxygen flow and help relax your muscles all over.

Keep doing these stretches throughout the day so you can avoid muscle cramps, fatigue and stiffness.

Note: It is a good idea to consult with your doctor before doing any stretching exercises, especially if you have existing health issues or experience discomfort or pain.