Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Healthy Body, Healthy Business: Affects of Sitting for long periods


Question: I've been hearing that sitting for long periods is bad for my health. How could this be effecting me in ways of which I am unaware?

Suggestions:


Chiropractic

Sitting to the spine is like sugar to the teeth, there is no other way to say it. In my estimation, sitting is the real plague of the modern era and is responsible for conditions like fatigue, immune system suppression, sexual dysfunction, digestive disorders, scoliosis, obesity, organ dysfunction, difficult births, spine pain and sports injuries caused by a body that is shut down, to name a few. We are the only species on the planet that still educate our youth in the seated position which brings to mind the old Buddhist saying, “Bend the branch, so grows the tree.” In other words, spending hours sitting essentially shuts down your body and causes your spine to shape into postures that are severely detrimental to the health of your body, spine and nervous system. Once again, simple tests at your Chiropractor’s office will determine the overall state of health of your spine and nervous system.

Yours in health.

Dr. Jason Penaluna
(Chiropractor and owner of Penaluna Chiropracitc Studio, PS)
(For more information visit www.penalunachiropractic.com)


Craniosacral Therapy

Any job that requires someone sit for long periods of time is a physically demanding job. It really is. My clients that work like this know it to be true and often complain of back pain, especially in their low back. Sitting for long periods of time can be very hard on the spine, especially the sacrum, which is the bone at the very bottom of our spine. This discomfort will often travel up our back, affecting our neck and shoulders.

People that spend their days in a chair would do well to receive regular craniosacral treatments to regain full circulation and range of motion in their spine and to get rid of any pain and tension. Stretching at regular intervals throughout the day and investing in a good chair (or asking your company to do this) can be life savers, but if a fancy chair isn't an option an exercise ball is a great choice, too.


Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Massage Therapist and Certified Craniosacral Therapist
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness
http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com/


Aromatherapy

There’s no doubt that sitting for long periods of time will cause in the least pain and at the worst injury. That’s why it’s important to integrate the natural world into the office at every possible moment.

Essential oils are a great way to reinvigorate the body after sitting for a while and remind yourself of your connection to the natural world. Having fresh flowers in the office and drinking herbal teas are a great way to do this also.

Essential Oils of Eucalyptus and Peppermint help awaken the body and increase the memory capacity. Eucalyptus is a popular presence in Asia in offices to increase productivity. You may be motivated and reminded to take more breaks as a result of the exercise motivating power of Peppermint. This would create a better balance of sitting and standing throughout the day.


Carol Walter
Certified Aromatherapist
Solace Essentials
www.SolaceEssentials.com


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