As a corporate yoga teacher, I've had the privilege of working with countless professionals who spend their days tethered to their desks. While our jobs are essential, the sedentary nature of our work can have unwanted and often detrimental effects on our health.
The impact of Sitting Too Long
Muscle Imbalance: A Silent Struggle
When we sit for extended periods, our bodies become accustomed to a specific posture, leading to muscle imbalances. Our front body, particularly the hip flexors and chest muscles, tends to shorten and weaken, while the back body, including the lower back and glutes, becomes strained and inactive. This imbalance can contribute to poor posture, back pain, and reduced mobility.
👉 Wellness Tips: Keep moving! Try these 5 exercises to prevent back pain.
Shortness of Breath: A Hidden Toll
Prolonged sitting in a slouched position compresses the chest and diaphragm, limiting lung capacity. Many people develop a habit of shallow, belly breathing, further reducing their breath depth. This can lead to feelings of fatigue or anxiety. 👉 Wellness Tips:
Work on diaphragmatic breath. Here is an exercice you can do.
Reduced Cognitive Function: A Foggy Mind
Believe it or not, sitting too long can even impact our cognitive function. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can improve memory, attention, and creativity. By sitting for extended periods, we're depriving our brains of the oxygen and blood flow they need to function optimally.
👉 Wellness Tips:
Do regular movements breaks. Set up a movement routines for yourself.
Company Must Take Responsability For Sitting Too Long
To counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting, it's essential for organisations to take responsibility and provide their employees with the tools and resources to prioritise movement. By raising awareness about the risks of sedentary work, providing opportunities for regular movement breaks, and creating a supportive work environment, companies can empower their employees to take control of their health. Remember, a small investment in employee wellness can yield significant returns in terms of increased productivity, job satisfaction, and overall company success.
👉 Ready to empower your employees and boost their well-being? Invest in a corporate yoga workshop to teach them practical techniques for combating the negative effects of prolonged sitting.
