Sitting is the new smoking. While researchers say that the 2 (sitting and smoking) aren't comparable, they agree that prolonged sitting affects our health negatively. It can lead to high blood sugar, increased blood pressure, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels - to name a few.
In fact - some years ago, I had been diagnosed with a Bulging Disc as a result of uninterrupted sitting for long hours. So, I can tell you first hand that you should avoid being seated for hours on end.
Health matters aside, I've also found that ideating, working on a task, or trying to solve a problem while sitting continuously doesn't help. You may have experienced this too. This is because being stationary causes reduction of blood flow and oxygen entering your blood stream through your lungs. As a result, there's a possibility that your brain activity slows down.
What should you do?
Move at work - Make it a point to walk about at least after every 1 hour or 90 minutes (if every 30 minutes is not possible).
Walk and talk - When possible, move around while attending phone calls.
Make it fun - Keep 2 stress balls at your desk. When you realize you've been sitting for too long, stand up and start juggling. It will break the monotony of sitting and you'll feel refreshed.
Here are 3 helpful #TinyHabitRecipes:
After I wrap up a meeting, I will walk around for a minute.
After I answer a call on my phone, I will get up from my chair and walk.
After I send an email, I will juggle 2 balls for 30 seconds to a minute.
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