Know what effects sitting down for long have, try to change them

Advertisement

We can often find that we spend too much of the day sitting down on computers, tablets, phones, TVs and desks which are commonplace in our society. It is described by doctors as “the new smoking” because the risks that come from it so heavily overlap those caused by other poor health conditions both physically and mentally.

Bad posture when sitting is one of the main causes of problems such as neck and back pain, and without a good back rest the support for your spine as you work or study causes the muscles to stiffen and your back to ache, as well as the obvious headache and sore shoulder problem when at a screen for too long.

If you are static for a long time, then the metabolic processes slow down, and consequently we cannot get rid of calories as efficiently, leading to weight gain and eventually obesity, and since you are not mobile the sugar levels can become too unstable, affecting the body’s use of insulin causing type 2 diabetes.

The effect that sitting down has on your heart condition may have been unexpected for you, however, studies show that the individuals sitting at a desk for many hours a day are more likely to develop heart conditions, from a range of things like circulation to the blood pressure and cholesterol.

The effect that sitting for long hours causes to the circulation in the legs, you may know, results in numb and uncomfortable and swelling or aching legs and even in the worst case scenario, when blood is not reaching the affected area, clots can form and the prolonged sitting becomes the main risk factor.

Not only does sitting for hours on end affect your physique in a negative way; your mental and physical well-being can too. Not being active for many hours per day and failing to go out and enjoy yourself can lead to stress and anxiety and you will begin to lose motivation and energy levels, which impacts on what you achieve during your day.

Advertisement

One of the health problems that stem from spending long hours in front of the computer or screen, is eye strain, such as dry, tired eyes and blurred vision, as well as the expected headaches and inability to concentrate on things other than one’s aching eyes, in the form of tired eye syndrome.

One aspect that would come as good news to most is that simple changes alone can make a massive difference. You do not need to have an intensive workout or exercise programme just merely stand up every 30-60 minutes while working (or whatever activity it is you are seated for) and stretch and this has an affect too. A few minute’s walk, light stretching or even just jumping up and down in the spot can help increase your activity. Taking the stairs where available and ensuring you have a good posture are beneficial too. Having an intensive workout is important, but it cannot make up for excessive amounts of sitting.

The quick way to reduce the amount you sit:

• Get up and stretch every hour or so
• Take a short 5-minute walk every 30-60 minutes during your working day
• Maintain good posture throughout your working day
• Cut down on pointless computer use, etc.
• Use an upright desk where one is available
• Get 30 minutes of physical activity at least per day

Keeping moving is a definite positive you can get for yourself, and a crucial one to keep away illness at bay.

Also Read: Know how Oats can keep your tummy full for longer

Advertisement