Rise and move: 10 Tips for breaking the sedentary cycle

If you are reading this blog sitting on a couch or a desk, it’s okay. But if you have been here at the same place for hours now with little movement, it’s not okay. What we mean is that leading a sedentary lifestyle is not okay. You may argue that there is nothing you can do as you have a 9 to 5 job, the excuse is not good enough. In fact, no matter what you say or what excuse you give, it will never be good enough. 

For your health and well-being and those who love you, you must not lead a sedentary lifestyle. It’s a slow poison that is killing you, without you realising it. It’s time you break free from the clutches of a sedentary lifestyle. This blog will provide a few tips that can help you. 

What happens when you lead a sedentary lifestyle?

Your blood circulation slows down

You would understand why good blood circulation is important for survival and the smooth functioning of the body. But do you know a sedentary lifestyle actually slows it down? Yes, you read that right. As blood is required by the whole body, any lack of it due to slow circulation causes problems in the long run. 

Thickening of blood vessels and high blood pressure 

Just as your body requires food, water and oxygen to survive, it also needs optimal physical activity to function smoothly. When that doesn’t take place, many things happen such as the thickening of blood vessels. Blood vessels thicken when the plague starts to deposit and block the transfusion of blood. Consequently, the blood has to force its way through these passages, inducing force on the blood vessels and a rise in blood pressure.  An increase in blood pressure means a red flag for heart disease and stroke. 

How to break away from a sedentary lifestyle? 

Take the stairs 

Taking the lift surely is tempting, it is the easy way out. It may also be demanding and exhausting, a good enough reason for you to pass. But just so you know, you could be doing wonders to your health if you just take the stairs. 

Climbing the stairs is a good physical activity that burns a considerable amount of calories. It may even be better than jogging. 

So, the next time you push the elevator button, remind yourself that it is the stairs you have to take. 

Take a short walk after lunch 

A short walk after taking a meal is not only beneficial for digestion but also a good way to keep yourself moving. If you’re working in the corporate sector, a long walk may not be possible. But if a short walk is, do take it and your health will thank you later. 

Park your car away 

You ask us why? It’s simple, to get you moving and take a few more steps down the way. You may also be saving on fuel. Just so you know, little steps go a long way. 

Exercise, even if it’s for 15-20 minutes 

You may have a lot on your plate and no time to work out. But even if you have 15-20 minutes to spare, then a workout for even that duration may do wonders for your health. We recommend morning workouts as no last-minute tasks or exhaustion can sabotage your workout plans. You can try fun workouts such as Zumba to make exercising fun. 

Take a break after every hour 

The longer you sit, the slower your metabolism gets. Hence, to keep moving, it’s suggested you take breaks every hour – not long, just a 5-10 min break where you don’t scroll but walk around. It may also be a good idea to walk if you have several work calls to attend. 

Fidget if you have to sit in one position for hours

You may be working on an assignment that you cannot leave unfinished, even for a minute. This is when you can fidget your way through. Fidgeting is any day better than sitting in one position for hours. As per studies, you can burn up to 350 calories a day if you fidget from time to time. 

Closing thoughts 

Now that you have these tips, we hope you’ll follow them to break free from this sedentary lifestyle. Get moving, get healthy and fitter every passing minute.

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