Unveil the Power of Sitting Properly
Sitting has been labeled as the new smoking, with countless studies showing the negative effects of prolonged sitting on our health. However, we often forget that sitting is a natural position that all mammals assume, and it has been a part of our evolution for a long time. In fact, our ancestors spent a lot of time sitting and resting to conserve energy. You’re probably sitting right now as you read this. We sit when we work, eat, drive, meditate and engage in many other activities. So why has it become such a major concern today? In this blog post, we will explore the truth about sitting, based on research by Harvard professor Dr. Daniel Lieberman, and why it's not as bad as you've been led to believe.
Firstly, it's important to understand that exercise is not the cause of sitting-related issues for many people. It's the lack of movement and the sedentary lifestyle that can contribute to health problems. Prolonged sitting, whether at work or on the couch, can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
This is why it is important for people to prioritize their health by incorporating regular exercise into their daily routines. By making time for physical activity, individuals can reduce the negative impact of sedentary behavior on their overall well-being. However, studies have shown that incorporating exercise breaks throughout the day can reduce the negative effects of sitting. This is important because many people spend a significant amount of time sitting, which can have detrimental effects on their health.
By incorporating movement into our daily routines, we can counteract these negative effects and improve our overall well-being. It is crucial to prioritize our health by staying active and seeking out information on the benefits of exercise. Research by Dr. Lieberman shows that even short bouts of exercise, such as standing up and stretching, can improve circulation and boost energy levels. This is especially important for people who engage in prolonged sitting time, as it helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Secondly, sitting can be incredibly beneficial when done right, and proper ergonomics play a pivotal role in ensuring our well-being. By having a comfortable chair and a desk that supports good posture, we can significantly reduce strain on our muscles and joints. This is precisely why we are thrilled to introduce our newest innovation, the Gabbro Ergonomic Office Chair. Specifically crafted to take sitting to the next level with its adjustable seat depth and 4D armrests which can be moved up and down, back and forth, and rotated left and right for the perfect, ergonomically-optimized working position. See the Gabbro chair below. The Gabbro is the perfect complement to the Tenon height-adjustable smart desk which allows for ergonomic sitting and standing.
Dr. Lieberman himself recommends sitting with your hips slightly above your knees and your feet flat on the ground. This simple adjustment minimizes pressure on your spine and promotes a more comfortable sitting experience. Try it now – check in with yourself, are your feet flat on the floor? If not, place them flat on the floor and feel the transformative shift in your posture and how much better you feel instantly.
Incorporating short breaks to stand up and move around throughout the day can work wonders in preventing muscle fatigue and boosting blood flow to the brain. These rejuvenating breaks lead to greater focus and heightened productivity, making your workday more fulfilling and rewarding. Utilizing wearables like the Oura Ring, you'll receive helpful reminders to get up and move if you've been sitting for too long. Similarly, the Tenon desk can be programmed to intermittently switch to a standing position, encouraging a healthier sitting and standing routine.
Thirdly, as much as our bodies need movement, they also need to rest. Our ancestors spent a lot of time sitting and conserving energy, which was necessary for survival. Dr. Lieberman's research suggests that periods of rest are crucial for the body to recover and repair, and sitting can be an effective way to achieve this. Sitting also allows us to engage in activities that promote relaxation and mental wellbeing, such as reading a book or meditating, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Finally, it's important to emphasize the need for movement and physical activity in our daily lives. While sitting can be beneficial in moderation, it should not be our default position. Our bodies are designed for movement, and regular exercise has been shown to have numerous benefits for our physical and mental health. Dr. Lieberman's book, "Exercised," explores how exercise has played a crucial role in human evolution and how it can help us live healthier, happier lives.
Sitting is a natural and necessary part of our daily lives, but it's important to approach it in a balanced and mindful way. Prolonged sitting can have negative effects on our health, but incorporating movement breaks, using proper ergonomics, and balancing rest and activity can help mitigate these risks. As with most things in life, moderation and balance are key. By understanding the truth about sitting, and the need for movement and exercise, we can take steps to optimize our health and wellbeing. So go ahead, take a seat, and savor the beauty of a sunset.