Is sitting the new normal?

Is sitting the new normal? If we think about our daily lives, especially those of office workers, we spend around 8-9 hours sitting at our desks hunched over screens. 

Despite the well-documented advantages of physical activity, a significant portion of the world's population remains physically inactive. Shockingly, an estimated one-third (31.1%) of people worldwide fall into this category. This lack of physical activity ranks as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality, contributing to approximately 6% of deaths globally, equating to a staggering 5.3 million lives lost each year. The situation is particularly alarming in Malaysia, where rates of physical inactivity and related fatalities surpass the global average. Recent population health surveys reveal that 25.1% of Malaysians are physically inactive, significantly higher than the global average. Even more concerning is the fact that physical inactivity is responsible for a startling 16.4% of the country's deaths, highlighting the urgent need for interventions to promote regular exercise and active lifestyles in Malaysia.

So what can we do at work to make a difference in our health? In today's sedentary work environments, it's crucial to find ways to break up periods of inactivity in order to maintain both physical health and productivity. Encouraging short bursts of activity throughout the workday can make a significant difference. Simple strategies such as taking brief walks around the office, stretching at your desk, or even standing during phone calls can help combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Implementing these small but meaningful changes not only improves circulation and reduces stiffness but also boosts energy levels and mental focus. By incorporating regular movement breaks into our daily routines, we can enhance overall well-being and performance in the workplace. Below are some examples of simple movements that can be done even while sitting at your desk. Start moving!

Image taken from: Desk yoga for shoulders, back, and Neck Healthcare Professional Edition Chair Yoga 8X8 in, 8x10 in, 16x16 in - Etsy Ireland. Desk Yoga for Shoulders, Back, and Neck Healthcare Professional Edition Chair Yoga 8x8 In, 8x10 In, 16x16 In - Etsy Ireland. (n.d.). https://www.etsy.com/ie/listing/1139421340/desk-yoga-for-shoulders-back-and-neck

References:

Khoo, S., Poh, B. K., Suhaimi, S. A., Chong, K. H., & Ramirez Varela, A. (2020, October 27). Physical Activity Promotion in Malaysia: Challenges and opportunities. Frontiers in public health. Retrieved April 18, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7652762/#:~:text=In%20Malaysia%2C%20the%20rate%20of,the%20country's%20deaths%20(23)