Make Your Meetings More Active
- Include items on your meeting agenda that require participants to get out of their seats (breakout groups, stand and write ideas on an easel).
- Choose movement friendly meeting locations (walkable neighborhoods, on-site gym, nearby park).
- Hire a professional instructor (pilates, yoga, tai chi, stretching, Zumba) to lead a class before or during the meeting.
- Point out the stairs and encourage attendees to use them. Consider including the location of stairs in meeting directions or putting arrows to the stairs in front of elevators.
- Organize a group walk early in the morning, during a break or before/after dinner.
- Consider incorporating standing ovations after each speaker to encourage participants to stand and stretch.
Standing Breaks
- At least once an hour, participants should be encouraged to stand up to improve blood circulation, boost metabolism, and relieve physical discomfort from sitting for prolonged periods of time.
- Announce that it is fine to stand up and move around, as needed. If possible, provide raised tables for those electing to stand during the meeting.
Stretch Breaks
- Stretch breaks help participants wake up their bodies and minds.
- Encourage people to stand up and stretch in place.
- Try playing a Healthy UC Davis WakeBreak video! These instructor-led stretch videos range from 4 to 15 minutes.
Breathing Exercise
- Focused breathing is an energizing activity that can help relax and clear your mind. Simply inhale for four seconds, hold it for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds.
