Lots of our readers find themselves sitting a lot. Maybe you work at a desk or are taking it easy while you recover from pregnancy #2. Whatever the reason, it’s important to remember to stay active and keep your blood flowing, even when circumstances don’t call for it. We’ve compiled some of the best ways to stay on the move, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day.
- 5 Minute Walk. Health professionals say that if you take a 5 minute walk for every hour that you spend sitting, you’ll be able to reverse any problems that sitting causes in that time. Circulatory and heart health are important considerations, and I like to have a brisk walk around my neighborhood when I need a break from my computer screen. It helps clear my head, and gives me a renewed sense of energy once I sit back down to work. If you’ve got kids old enough, take them outside for a few minutes of focused play. They’ll enjoy the change of scenery and pace as much as you.
- Work in Various Positions. Nobody likes sitting in one position all day. If you find yourself working at a desk for many hours, consider the following options. Many people have tried out standing desks, to great effect. Others have found the benefit of inflatable balance ball chairs, that require you to exercise a little bit while you work. If neither of these options are for you, take advantage of break times. Even if you don’t work in an office (but especially if you do), take a “coffee break” every now and then, whether or not you drink the stuff. Stepping away from your desk, doing some stretches, taking some deep breaths…it all makes a difference.
- Use a Circulation Booster. This is one of the best contraptions I found under the Christmas tree this year, and I can’t recommend it more. This circulation booster rests right under your feet while you work, activating the muscles in your feet and legs and thereby raising the level of your circulatory system. It’s not exactly a cardio workout, but it’s a lot better than sitting still without one of these devices. There are different settings to accommodate your needs at any given moment, and I find I only need to use it for 20-30 minutes a day, though I enjoy it enough to do it more. Check out this crazy doohickey and let me know what you think. I think you’ll like it.
There are plenty of ways to stay active, even if your daily work or life doesn’t call you to be. Stay on the move, even if you sit at a desk. When we move, we feel alive. Our health, our thoughts, and our work all go a lot better. I hope you enjoy these techniques in 2015.