Forget the Chair, Use a Stability Ball Instead
By Donna Stark
Regardless of how many plants and pictures you have in your office, your workspace will never be as comfortable or as healthy as your body requires if you spend the majority of your day sitting at a desk. And that's because office chairs simply cannot support the spine the way it needs to be. The constant game between chair adjustments and computer visibility can often put your neck and spine in a tough spot. Luckily for you, though, there are options, and one of the best options around is a stability ball.
You Need to Move Your Body
The most practical way you can incorporate a stability ball into your day is to use it as a chair. But keep in mind, it's not like a traditional chair, so you won't have anything to lean back on. This means you will need to engage muscle groups you haven't used for a while, so be careful! You are going to need to focus on your posture and balance more than you ever have before, but it will be worth it. Here's why.
- Encourages proper posture
- Increases blood circulation
- Eases stress on your spine
- Strengthens the muscles that support the spine
- Improves balance and flexibility
- Reduces the strain inflicted on your body
Sitting in one fixed position for long periods of time is never healthy, so it is highly encouraged that you stand up and move around at least once every hour. Even simple trips to the restroom or to the vending machine can really help your back out. But these actions, no matter how good they are, may not be enough. With a stability ball, you can continue with these movements while also focusing on improving the strength of your core and spine. Your core and the muscles surrounding the spine function together to support every limb. By working on these muscle groups, you could end up reducing the risk of pain and injuries down the road.
Stability Balls Are Easy to Use
The best thing about stability balls is that they are easy to inflate, do not take up much room, and can quickly be tucked in your car or office when not in use. You don't have to worry about the ball fitting at your desk either because you can adjust the size with as much or as little inflation as you need. In other words, unless you are dealing with certain physical conditions, there really isn't any reason why a stability ball wouldn't work for you! So, head to the stores and buy one today. It may end up being the best thing for your body.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pasadena, Calif.