IS SITTING THE NEW SMOKING?

Regardless of the business you are in, workplaces share many similarities. The ticking clock and furious patter of computer keys are staples in offices around the world and, more worryingly, another such similarity is an increasingly sedentary culture which studies have shown is taking a major toll on employee health. 

I remember growing up, I couldn’t sit still for a minute and people thought I was a hyperactive chatter-box (I don’t know if much has changed?). Teachers thought the best way to get me to respond was by making me sit in the corner, or by telling me to be still. 

Now, many years later, I have to ask myself; who was right?

Have you ever thought about how much time you actually spend sitting down or sedentary during the day?

A typical day could begin by sitting down to have breakfast, before sitting again in the driver’s seat and then moving to the office chair, getting up only to once again sit down in a meeting or to eat lunch. After a long day of being seated at the office we likely then drive home to continue sitting at our computer or on the couch, catching up on work emails, social media and watching television before going to bed. 

Sitting for long hours slows down the body’s metabolism while increasing both blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This intern increase the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and stroke.

It's a tough cycle to break, as most jobs require us to sit for long periods of time, but according to Tom Rath, Author of the New York Times bestselling book, Eat Move Sleep “sitting is the most underrated health-threat of modern time” and so it is crucial that we attempt to do so.

The World Health Organisation recommends a minimum of 30 to 40 minutes of regular physical activity on at least five days a week, but the benefits of regular exercise can be rendered ineffective when combined with sitting for long periods of time. Be careful not to undo all of your hard work by following an exercise regime in the morning only to then spend the rest of the day sitting at your desk as this will only bring your health back to square one.

There is always a solution, don't blame your job as being sedentary. Adjust your mindset, be in control of your environment instead of being a product of circumstance and find opportunities to remain active

Here’s a few small changes we can implement which will make a big difference:

• We spend a lot of time on our mobile phones, so why not pace the corridor while making a call?
• Practice the sit-stand switch; alternate between sitting and standing every 30 minutes
• Stand up when someone comes to your desk at work
• Incorporate stretching or simple exercises into your day in both seated and standing positions
• Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water, not only is hydration important for your health, this will require you to walk over to the water dispenser (and the toilet) throughout the day
• Have your meetings standing up or walking instead of sitting down. Some leading companies even implement this as policy! This will help to keep you better focused, meaning the meetings are generally shorter as well as getting the health benefits of standing
• Reassess your work station. Maybe an ergonomic solution is required so that you can be standing whilst working during certain periods.

These days everything we do is measurable and analysed, especially in the work place. However, be sure not to forget that the most important factor of all is your health. By not moving, you are increasing your risk of chronic illness and affecting your overall performance. Be proactive and look for opportunities to move; spending less time sitting down and more time standing up or exercising will add years to your life.

Remember, it’s all about a lifestyle!

Keep moving...

If your looking for some ideas or support on keeping active please visit our website www.ignite.ae

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Disclaimer: Please note the article does not create a doctor/patient relationship. The information provided is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All the text is informational and for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read above. Any advice or information provided is on an “as-is” basis. No warranties either expressed or implied, are made on the information provided.