I have a desk job during the day that requires me to sit in front of a computer. While my job is a blessing in many ways, sitting is not a blessing to my body. The first couple of weeks began to build a tightness and soreness in my shoulders. I began to slouch and shift my body into positions that were not meant for my spine. I now sit on an exercise ball, which has caused lots of buzz among the people who file through our office doors.
Besides the obvious advantages of correcting posture and strengthening the core, it has made me take a conscious look at how I live outside of my mat. When I’m not on my mat I am still living intentionally. I’m jumping, and walking, and reaching and lifting, and smiling. Whatever I can add to make my workday more active is a must.
My husband, for example, has built himself a stand up desk at his office. Think about it. How many hours do you spend sitting? And then, how many hours lying in bed?
I’m channeling that positive, physical energy I gain on my mat into my daily activities.
That same energy keeps me moving and looking for opportunities to go the extra mile for wellness.
It’s good to be aware of what we are doing throughout the day. If we sit a lot, it is good to get up and walk around often. Also, there are lots of isometric exercises we can do while talking on the phone, or waiting in line. We can do exercise while watching T.V. We can do stretches before going to bed, and when we get up in the morning. It’s good to walk as much as possible, and climb steps, taking deep breaths. When I do my housework or work in the food pantry I can be thankful for the exercise. And I can be thankful that God has created all the amazing things in my body!
I’ve always been jealous of your good posture. I’ve had to really work at mine. Posture is a big deal here. Caden’s teacher called me in for a special conference just to address his posture. She told me he must see an occupational therapist because he lacks the ability to sit up straight. I told her he’s just a lazy American boy! But we did take her advice and get an exercise ball that he sits on to watch tv or eat dinner and we make him do wheelbarrow exercises.
Wow. That is a lot of pressure on a little boy. But if he continues the practice of good posture now, I’m sure his back and spine will thank him later.