Sitting for up to 6 hours a day can have far more serious consequences on your health than if you were to just be sitting for just 3 hours a day, even if you exercise! The truth is, over exercising will not compensate for the amount of time you are sitting, the only option is to simply find ways to sit less. If you absolutely have to sit, there are proper ways to do so correctly, as well as ways to help cope with the physical burdens sitting can place on the body.

The truth is, sitting too much can cause blood clots, hypertension, high blood pressure, obesity, poor circulation, fluid retention, diabetes, heart disease, and muscle tightness (Guys and Good Health). To completely avoid all of these possible side effects, it would be wise to avoid sitting all together by opting for a standing desk. They don’t break the bank and can save money long term on potential health issues! Over time you will find it easier to stand, with a decrease in overall body soreness as well. Opting for an exercise ball is also a great alternative, as constantly bouncing helps keep your body in motion! If you have to sit, it is important to do so in the correct way, in order to minimize potential health concerns as much as possible. Sitting upright, as if a string was pulling through your head from your belly button is the first step. Then focus on the positioning of your arms, making sure they are parallel to your arm rests where your eyes meet the tip of the monitor, while feet flat on the floor. Sitting as so will significantly diminish any noticeable physical pain felt from sitting incorrectly over long periods of time.

If you have already started to notice some not so enjoyable side affects of long term sitting, there are ways to help cope with these new burdens on your body. Considering a purchase of a chair cushion can dramatically change the feeling of sitting at work or at home for extended periods of time. This one provides lumbar support as well as orthopedic memory foam! There have been several case scenarios where individuals complain about back pain and even invest time into visiting a chiropractor, however most of these issues can quickly be resolved by either investing in a new mattress, or perhaps a quicker fix foam mattress topper. Which can significantly alleviate back pain caused from unruly mattresses or sitting at an office job.

Exercise seems to always be a reoccurring suggested solution to most of our health problems. However, exercise doesn’t necessarily have to be vigorous. Basic stretching and body aerobics can help alleviate tension felt from stress on the body. Simple daily yoga is a great start in order to start chipping away at the effects caused from stationary office work as well as leisure time. The benefits of stretching are endless, stretching decreases muscle stiffness and increases range of motion, improves posture, promotes circulation, and even decreases the risk of lower back pain! (ACE Fitness)

We hope these suggestions have helped you on your journey to fulfilling a better lifestyle for you and your body. If you find any of these solutions provide substantial or noticeable differences to your physical health, please let us know! We look forward to hearing from you and your experiences.

Posted by: Emily Jump, Marketing and Communications Intern