A recent global study has found that our mental state can decline after just two hours of continuous desk-based work, but incorporating just 15 minutes of exercise into our day can help to reverse these effects.
As World Mental Health Day approaches, actor Brian Cox has delivered a powerful message urging individuals to step away from their desks and move for the sake of their mental wellbeing.
The State of Mind study conducted by ASICS involved 26,000 participants and revealed a strong link between sedentary behaviour and mental health, with mental wellbeing decreasing as individuals remain inactive for longer periods.
Research into desk-based work showed that State of Mind scores begin to drop and stress levels rise after just two hours of continuous desk work, with a significant increase in stress levels after four hours.
However, a Desk Break experiment overseen by Dr Brendon Stubbs from King’s College London demonstrated that incorporating just 15 minutes of movement into the workday could lead to a 22.5% improvement in mental state.
The experiment also showed that taking a daily Desk Break for a week resulted in a 14.7% reduction in stress levels, a 33.2% increase in productivity, and a 28.6% improvement in focus.
In a Public Service Announcement (PSA), Cox portrays a strict boss to draw attention to the impact of sedentary work on mental health. The PSA encourages office workers to prioritise movement for their mental wellbeing over superficial perks like free fruit or “Wellness Wednesdays”.
Dr Brendon Stubbs highlighted the significant benefits of incorporating 15-minute movement breaks into the workday, emphasizing the positive impact on mental wellbeing and stress reduction.
ASICS UK has introduced a Desk Break clause in its employee contracts to encourage movement and mental wellbeing among its staff. The company is urging other employers to follow suit and is sharing the Desk Break clause on their website.
On World Mental Health Day, ASICS is launching the #DeskBreak movement, inviting office workers to take a 15-minute Desk Break and share images of their empty desks. For each image shared, ASICS will donate £5 to the mental health charity Mind.
Gary Raucher, EVP ASICS EMEA, stressed the importance of promoting movement for mental health, while Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical Activity at Mind, emphasized the significance of creating a mentally healthy workplace culture to support employee wellbeing.
To learn more about the Desk Break initiative and join the movement, visit the ASICS website. Take a stand for your mental health and incorporate movement into your workday for a healthier mind and body.
