Thousands of people became sedentary during 2020. With people engaged in 48% less physical activity, it can be worrisome that we are all on a slippery slope! Of course, if you are in a career where you are already moving around often, you are in the clear! Manual labor jobs, like skilled-trade positions, can use some of these to help manage stress though. But if you've been stuck working from home, exercise is key.
Inactivity = negative
The well-substantiated hazards of inactivity can lead to numerous serious physical health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis, muscle wasting and falls. Increased ‘screen time’ even if it’s work related causes eyestrain, dry eyes, blurred vision, headache and neck, back and arm pain and strains.
Be Active! Recover!
There are easy ways to be physically active and keep or improve your strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. This was a bit hard while trying to social distance, but we see a surge of vaccines, and your gym may now be fully open again!
In the meantime, remember that being physically active can be done anywhere. It can be as simple as 5 – 10 mins of deep breathing a few times during a day. This helps reduce stress, anxiety, pain, heart rate, and blood pressure. Deep breathing strengthens your lungs, clears your airway, improves your energy, and it enhances your sleep. Above all else now, though, it boosts your immune system!
So take a break from sitting. – Every 30 minutes, get up and stretch, stroll around your house/office or simply stand. When you walk by a window or mirror, look at your posture – give yourself a gift of good posture, your body will thank you.
Let's all take steps to ensure we are more active this year! Whether you are still stuck working from home, have a hybrid schedule, or are had never stopped going into work, we can bounce back and make 2021 the year to succeed!
And if you are looking for work, check out how Supplemental Staffing can help you find your dream career!