Let Yoga Undo the Damage of Sitting Too Much
By Sandy Schroeder
You may have seen the warnings about what sitting can do to the body over time. Sciatica pain that threatens mobility, along with red irritated eyes, rounded shoulders and a slumped posture are all possible.
What to Do
If you are using an adjustable chair that fits your back and shoulders and keeps your feet flat on the ground, that's a good first step.
At the same time, ergonomic experts are suggesting these yoga poses done on a regular basis can help undo the damage: downward dog, cat and cow, fish, mountain, happy baby and child's pose. If you are doing yoga, you may be already using these poses. If you are considering yoga, observe a class and talk with an instructor about your sitting issues. The instructor can help you pick the right yoga classes and begin to sample the benefits. As muscle tension eases, and the mind clears, you may become addicted. I find short morning and evening sessions make a wonderful difference.
I have been sitting for a long time, doing yoga for several years, and using an adjustable chair for a while. I feel these components have allowed me to get by with sitting too much and working long hours.
Along with the chair and yoga, I try to do 30 minutes of active exercise such as biking, running or brisk walking every day, and take 10-minute breaks for every hour that I am on my computer.
In the future, I think I will have to get serious and do more about the issue. I may look for an adjustable desk to stand or sit while I work and I may add a peddle device under the desk.
Or I may go further and restructure my work sessions, stagger my hours, dictate work ideas while I walk, stand for all cell calls, and make most meetings walk around sessions.
Whatever You Do Stay Active
Staying active wherever possible is really the only way to preserve posture, strength and mobility. It's really a challenge to all of us to pay attention and do whatever it takes to counter the dangers of sitting too much.
If you have teenagers, work with them too, watching their posture with phones and laptops. At the same time, make sure they have a homework desk and are involved in sports or other physical exercises every day.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Universal City, Tex.