Sedentary Lifestyle at Work Negatively Affects Health
Laura and Alberto, like many others, spend the majority of their workday sitting in front of a computer screen. This sedentary lifestyle is taking a toll on their bodies, causing stiffness, muscle pain, and overall discomfort. They are not alone, as a growing percentage of the population is experiencing the negative effects of sedentary work.
According to the Health Prevention area of Grupo Hospitalario Quirón, remaining seated for long periods can lead to muscle contractures, back pain, circulatory issues, and even hypertension and diabetes. A sedentary lifestyle can also impact mental health, causing stress, anxiety, and depression.
To combat the negative effects of sitting for prolonged periods, experts recommend implementing anti-sedentary strategies. Taking short breaks to stretch, improving ergonomics, using a standing desk, and incorporating movement into meetings are all effective ways to stay active.
Simple exercises that can be done at the workplace, such as neck stretches, back stretches, leg exercises, abdominal contractions, ankle exercises, and hand and wrist stretches, can help prevent muscle pain and discomfort. By combining these exercises with regular breaks and movement throughout the day, individuals can experience significant health benefits.
It is essential to prioritize physical activity and movement in a sedentary work environment to maintain overall health and well-being. By making small changes to daily routines, individuals like Laura and Alberto can help alleviate the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle and improve their overall quality of life.