Good health and wellness are essential to productivity, which is why healthy eating and exercise are key factors to ensuring good health and staying well, both mentally and physically. Today, many of us, who can move without limitations, have allowed technology to hinder us from daily movement. Sitting at a desk staring at a computer screen for hours, playing video games for hours on end, driving to every destination, are all ways technology has kept us from moving. Let’s look at ways to counteract technology’s embrace on our lessen mobility.
Stand More
Most people have jobs that require them to work at a desk with a computer. Most often, people choose to sit down at their desk and work; however, sitting is not very healthy for your body. The Mayo Clinic states that sitting for long periods of time can lead to obesity, increased blood pressure, excess fat around the waist, and unhealthy cholesterol levels. Prolonged periods of sitting can also lead to cardiovascular disease and cancer Mayo Clinic: Sitting Risks. However, researchers have found that people who add 60-75 minutes of moderate activity in their daily routine helped to decrease the impacts of sitting for extended periods of time. Research suggests that more standing and less sitting has an overall positive impact on people’s health. Try these activities (The Mayo Clinic) while your work:
- Take a break for sitting every 30 minutes.
- Stand while watching television or talking on the telephone.
- Stand when playing video games.
- If you work at a desk, try a standing desk or high table or stand.
- If possible, have a walking meeting with colleagues rather than sitting in a conference room.
- Try positioning a walking pad under your desk, or get a desk that can be positioned over your treadmill and wall while you work.
So remember to stand, not sit.
Games with Movement
Video games seem to be the new sport for most people, but most video games do not require movement and most often people just sit in front of the screen fiddling their fingers over a controller; however, games with movement can be just as much fun as video games, especially games played outdoors. For example, fun game of kickball or softball can be fun with friends and family. But if video games are preferred, try playing the virtual reality games that require you to move. I love bowling or exercising on my Wii (Do they still make Nintendo Wii?). In addition, there are some great games that are not digital, such as Jenga, Twister, or good old hopscotch (I know some of you will not know what hopscotch is, so look it up). Creating an obstacle coarse or relay games for a family gathering is a great way for family to cheer on each other and have some fun. Be creative with finding ways to incorporate movement in your daily routine.
Walk Instead of Drive
Next time you’re heading out for a quick errand, consider trading in the car keys for a pair of comfortable shoes. Walking not only benefits your health but also allows you to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. So, next time you’re thinking of hopping in the car, why not take a leisurely walk instead?
It’s clear that even a small amount of movement can make a big difference in our health. Physical activity not only helps burn calories but also maintains muscle tone and mobility, which becomes increasingly important as we get older. So, let’s all make an effort to get moving and enjoy the health benefits that come with it!