The science of sitting
There are no prizes for knowing that sitting still for long periods can be bad for your health. Yet according to figures from the British Chiropractic Association, today's world of work requires a massive 32% of us to spend ten hours or more sitting at a desk. It's no wonder that a large number of sick days are due to back pain and stress.
The good news is that we can do something to minimise the effects of long days sitting at a desk. By combining regular screen breaks (experts recommend every 20 minutes) with more active involvement while seated, we can safeguard ourselves against many health problems associated with sitting still.
Loosen up
Taking just five minutes out of your daily routine for a relaxation exercise can help get rid of excess tension and give a boost to your energy levels:
sit in a chair, breathe in and out slowly and deeply, occasionally shaking and loosening your arms and shoulders
let your jaw go slack and your muscles relax
wiggle your toes and feet and try to relax your legs.
Here's a great routine you can follow several times a day to reduce shoulder and neck tension:
draw the numbers one to ten in the air with your nose
make sure you draw each number large and make your movements slow
take care not to pull against tight muscles.
Stay hydrated
A good intake of fluids is always important, especially when the weather is hot. Enjoy the great refreshing taste of Ice Tea from Lipton – the experts in tea – and the lift it gives to your body and mind. Lipton Ice Tea provides the goodness of tea antioxidants and has no preservatives, no artificial colours and 35% less sugar than most regular soft drinks.
