7 Tips to Remain Active While Sitting at Desk Jobs
Making little changes - such as conducting meetings standing up - can make a huge difference in combating a sedentary lifestyle in the long run.
With the advancement in technology, maximum jobs require sitting behind a desk with a computer screen for hurtful hours during the workweek. Sitting has rightly been called the new smoking. The more you sit, the higher you risk developing serious health risks such as:
Low blood circulation
Digestion problems
Back and hip problems
Poor posture
Weaker bones or varicose veins
Increased stress levels
Decreased productivity and energy levels and many more
Here are seven ways to move more while you’re on the job.
Stop being a desk potato!
Due to the facilities available to the modern world, we don't have to move for anything these days. Be it food, transport or even our work. That is leading us towards the worst version of inactivity. It is essential for you to move more. Park your car farther away from the office or get your lunch instead of ordering in. These little bursts of physical activity throughout the day will go a long way in helping you remain fit.
Take Hourly Breaks
Every hour, stand, stretch, and move around, even if it’s just near your desk. Stretching your muscles with light yoga and exercises relieves stress in the joints. The one-hour challenge is a great way to break the spell of sitting. Use your phone alarm and set timers that go off every hour. After every hour, perform a 2-3 minute physical activity like walking around your workspace or meeting a colleague if in office.
Pull your socks up!
Investing in copper compression socks is the best gift you can give your feet. This revolutionary product will help maintain a steady blood circulation through your legs and, in turn, keep your veins healthy. Compression socks may even delay the onset of varicose veins.
Conduct standing meetings
Working and conducting meetings at a standing desk will help improve your posture and endurance. Did you know you could increase your life expectancy by two years just by reducing your sitting time from six to three hours every day? Discuss with your colleagues and instead of drooping and sleeping in the conference chairs, use a standing conference desk for your next meeting to feel more energetic.
Make elevators your enemy
I understand that climbing even five flights of stairs could be extremely taxing, especially if you haven't been active for a long time. But you can always start slow with one or two flights of stairs. The idea is to remain active amidst the availability of convenient facilities to avoid extreme health risks later on.
Step out for lunch
To increase your activity, you can take a walk during your lunch break. Go to a nearby park, or walk around your block for some time in the fresh air. Taking the time to step away from your desk can increase blood flow and allow your body to shake out any tension or pressure caused by sitting down.
Get friendly with your greens
The importance of a well-balanced diet inclusive of healthy greens is well-known. But in case of minimal activity due to desk jobs, a well-rounded diet full of essential nutrients is even more crucial. So next time you are out getting lunch, instead of ordering a double cheeseburger, go for a salad with healthy carbohydrates and fats or better yet, pack yourself a healthy meal from home.
If you follow these tips consistently, with time, they will be a part of your daily routine, and you will be saving yourself from years of health perils and hospital visits.
Rory Donnelly is the R&D Director and passionate entrepreneur, fascinated by the workings of the human body and natural solutions for common health problems. He’s single-minded in his aim to make Copper Clothing a brand that’s recognized across the globe, by partnering with global brands to make these high-tech materials easily accessible for everyone. If you’d like to get in touch, email Rory at Rory@copperclothing.com or visit copperclothing.com.