Move More During Work with These Tips
By Rachel Carver
It happens to all of us. You stand up from your desk after working on a long project and find your shoulders and hips stiff. Maybe your shoulders hurt from staring too long at your computer screen. Working at home can mean longer periods of sitting which only compounds the problem. You can overcome muscle stiffness, but it takes a conscious effort to do so.
Sitting Is the New Smoking
Our bodies are not designed to sit for long periods of time. We need to move to help our bodies function properly. An hour of sitting can knock an average of 21.8 minutes off your life, which is equivalent to around two to three cigarettes. Too much sitting also increases the risk of developing health conditions such as:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Depression
Here are some ways to overcome muscle stiffness and make the most of your work time.
Adjust Your Body Position
It is important to adjust your body's position frequently, even if you are comfortable. Staying still too long stresses your body. Different sitting and standing positions keep your mind and body happy, which keeps you engaged in your work.
Take Breaks
Four five minute breaks per hour remind you to adjust your posture and stretch your muscles. Set a timer that prompts you to move every 15 minutes. Stand up, stretch, and rest muscles you were using and move new ones.
Use the Stairs
The elevator is convenient but drastically restricts movement. Use the stairs to visit your bosses office on the second floor, or to walk from the lower level of the parking garage to your office. If your house is now your office, use one of your breaks to make a trip or two up and down your stairs. The point is to work in movement whenever possible.
Go for a Walk
Take a lap around your office on your lunch break. If you work at home during nice weather, walk around the block before you start your work day, or conduct a conference call on the move. A short walk will help you with your step count and refresh your brain to get back to work.
Manage Pain
Don't ignore musculoskeletal pain. Try changing your posture or increasing movement. Consider paying a visit to The Join Chiropractic clinic near you for some conservative, drug-free treatment. The Joint team will evaluate your pain and create a plan that gives you relief.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Jacksonville, Fla.