The average person’s lifestyle has become increasingly more sedentary over the centuries. Many of us sit at a desk working all day, commute to and from work sitting in a car or on public transport, and then spend our evenings relaxing on the couch in front of the TV or sitting with friends for a couple of drinks. All the inventions and advancements that have made life easier for us have also removed much of the necessity to be active.

If you don’t have an active job or if you’re not extremely active in your leisure time, then it’s likely that you spend too much of your time sitting down. Here are some of the dangers and health risks of sitting for too long each day.

You’re more likely to gain weight

Being overweight or obese comes with many of its own health risks. When you spend most of your day sitting, you burn much fewer calories than if you are active. Even basic activities like standing and walking burn calories that contribute to your total daily energy expenditure. If you consume more calories than you expend on a daily basis, then this will lead to weight gain over time.

A greater risk of certain diseases

Leading such a sedentary lifestyle is also linked to various conditions and diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. As a result, studies have also found that too much sitting and too little physical activity is an indicator of premature death. So, getting up and about on a daily basis could literally add years to your life.

It’s bad for your posture

Do you ever get a bad back after you’ve been sitting for too long? Sitting for too long puts a strain on your back, neck, and spine, which can lead to chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. A combination of exercise, regular movement, stretching, and massage can help to keep your body in good shape and improve your posture. For when you do need to sit, make sure you watch your posture and invest in an ergonomic chair if you sit all day for work.

Reduced blood flow

Moving gets our blood pumping more effectively, helping it reach and nourish all of our tissues and organs. Sitting for too long can reduce blood flow to these areas and lead to health problems such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. Getting up from your desk or sofa regularly helps to keep your blood pumping effectively.

If you have a sedentary job, then try to take regular breaks, even if it’s just to walk around the office for a few minutes. You can also do stretches at your desk. Try to do some activity and exercise outside of work, too, or start walking to and from work if it’s possible. Massage can help to improve poor posture and other health effects from sitting too much. Contact Moonstone Massage to book an appointment with us.