If you haven’t heard by now, then I’m sorry to break the news to you—sitting is the new smoking. On average, we sit 9.5 hours a day compared to 7 hours sleeping. We sit more than we sleep! Not only is sitting increasing our risk of obesity, diabetes and a heart attack, but it also decreases our cognitive function. If you really want to be productive at work, then stand up and get moving. Here are some key points to remember when you feel groggy at work:
Don’t be nervous—Nerve cells benefit from body movement. That means neurons fire faster when you’re moving, rather than sitting. Need inspiration for that tagline you’ve been trying to come up with? Get moving.
Get it flowing—When you’re sitting, oxygen in your body becomes stagnant. Get up and move your body to increase the flow of oxygen to the brain. This helps you feel less tired and clears the fogginess of your thinking. Most likely, you’ll be more creative with a more active lifestyle.
What you can do—Set an alarm or remind yourself to stand up and start moving. Take a brisk walk around the office, do some jumping jacks, or whatever exercise you may prefer. If possible, work at a standing desk. Your creativity and health will improve instantly!
