Sitting for prolonged periods has increasingly become a “normal” part of American life, especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Between Zoom meetings, decreased social interaction and lessened exercise, we are sitting more than ever before. However, this sedentary lifestyle can be very detrimental to our health.
Humans are built to stand upright: Our cardiovascular and digestive systems function more efficiently that way and our energy levels sustain and increase the more we move. A lack of upright movement can bring a litany of physical ailments including muscle pain in our shoulders, neck and back as well as an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and blood clots (DVT).
So how do we reconcile our present day work environments and screen-obsessed digital world with our more primitive need to constantly be on the move? Try these simple tips:
When sitting for prolonged periods, try to remember to stand, stretch, and walk for at least a minute or two every half hour. A twenty-minute walk will help even more – promoting healthy blood flow that brings important nutrients to all the spinal structures.
In general, moving about and stretching on a regular basis throughout the day will help keep your joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons loose, which in turn will help you feel more comfortable, more relaxed, and more productive.