Is Sitting the New Smoking?

While we might not be puffing on cigarettes, the consequences of our sedentary lifestyles are becoming increasingly alarming. Today we’ll dive into the hidden dangers of a sedentary lifestyle and explore why “Is Sitting The New Smoking?” is more than just a catchy phrase—it’s a wake-up call to the perils of our modern way of life.

In this newsletter you'll learn about:

• Why sitting too long is so bad for you
• What is "active sitting"
• Are you eating for better exercise
• Two recipes that can help you stay healthy during this cold and flu season

Why Is Too Much Sitting So Bad

When we spend too much time parked in a chair, our body’s heart, digestion, and muscles don’t quite do their job the way they’re supposed to. The result? A whole lot of backaches, joint pain, reduced strength, and flexibility, and an all-around feeling of stiffness.

But that’s not all: Studies have found that if you’re spending a whopping 13 hours or more sitting on your behind each day, you’re 44% more likely to have a stroke than those who clock in less than 11 hours of sitting.

How Much Sitting Is Too Much

Alright, let’s break this down.

• If you’re sitting for less than 4 hours a day, you’re in the low-risk zone.
• Now, if you’re logging in 4 to 8 hours daily, you’re in the medium-risk category. It’s like sitting on a fence—could go either way.
• If you’re clocking in 8 to 11 hours daily, you’re in the high-risk category.
• And if you find yourself glued to that chair for more than 11 hours a day, well, you’re at very high-risk of something bad happening. It’s like you’re playing with fire, my friend.

What is Active Sitting

Have you ever heard of “active sitting? With active sitting, you’re all about engaging those core muscles and encouraging movement. You see, unlike your typical chair setup where you’re just passively lounging, active sitting is all about using your back, abdomen, and leg muscles to keep you upright and on your toes.

Now, if you’re up for trying it out, here are a few cool pieces of equipment you might want to check out: kneeling chairs, balance stools, Ariel stools, standing desks, stability balls (yes, those yoga balls), and wobble stools.

So, what’s in it for you with active sitting?

1. Better Posture: Say goodbye to that hunchback look! Active sitting keeps your spine aligned and your muscles engaged, which can save you from back and neck pain.
2. Improved Blood Flow: When you’re actively sitting, you’re encouraging better circulation, which can help you stay more alert and focused. Plus, it’s not just good for your body, it can give your productivity a little boost too.

Also, active sitting isn’t a replacement for regular exercise. You can’t just park yourself on a wobble stool all day and call it a day. You still need to get your body moving with some good old-fashioned exercise.

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Weekly Wellness RoundUp:

• Find out what you should eat before and after you exercise​
• Get this Easy Peasy Bone Broth Recipe to support your immune system this winter
• Love a latte? Grab this Cold Fighting Latte Recipe for when the cold or flu's got you down

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Well, that's all for this week -- stay tuned for more nutrition and lifestyle tips next time. Take care.

Susan

P.S. When you're ready, here are some ways I can help you:

• Connect with me on Instagram, LinkedIn​, and Facebook​
• Subscribe to my YouTube channel.
• Need a hand with that health journey? My upcoming monthly membership, Thrive Beyond Inflammation is like the secret sauce you've been craving! Hop on the waitlist to be the VIP in-the-know when it opens up. Find out more here and get ready to level up your wellness game

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