Dangers of sitting for work

SITTING & WORKING - how good is it for you?

In today's world a lot of us are doing Desk Work (in office or home). Prolonged periods of sitting have silently become one of the biggest hidden health risks — in fact, it is said to be more harmful than smoking!

Studies show that spending extended hours seated can lead to serious health problems such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, poor posture, and even premature death. The human body was designed for regular movement, not for remaining stationary for 8–10 hours a day at a desk, in front of a TV, or during long commutes. Just as smoking silently damages internal systems over time, excessive sitting gradually increases the risk of chronic illnesses.

It is particularly important that you exercise daily for an hour or so (which is imperative)- still prolonged sitting can undo many of the benefits you get from exercise. It reduces blood circulation, weakens muscles, stiffens joints, and negatively impacts mental health by increasing feelings of fatigue and anxiety.

Slight changes like working/ reading/ writing in standing posture on a taller desk, taking short walking breaks every 30/ 60 minutes (5 minutes' walk is good), stretching hands/ legs regularly can significantly reduce the risks. Very Important to keep in mind: your body thrives on movement — don't feel lucky that you are able to do work sitting (i.e. no physical effort).

Prolonged sitting is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and obesity — even for people who exercise regularly.

It is said - Sitting for more than 6–8 hours a day can shorten your lifespan significantly.

Some particularly important points to note

1. - Poor circulation and muscle stiffness are direct consequences of extended sitting.

2. - Mental health suffers with increased anxiety and reduced energy due to inactivity.

3. - Standing up and moving for 5 minutes every hour can dramatically reduce health risks.

4. - Get into occasional usage of standing desks, walking while speaking on phone or while having one-one meeting, and occasional stretch breaks can improve your health and productivity/ efficiency.

5. - Body movements result in both physical and mental well-being.

Make every day a Healthy and Wealthy Day