We know sitting is bad for us. But what are we supposed to do instead?
Apr 3, 2024
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Discussion on the negative impacts of sitting and ways to counteract it with movement breaks, exploring analogies between sitting and smoking, relaxation strategies, and embracing movement in a sedentary world. The hosts also reflect on social media platforms and podcast promotion.
Incorporate gentle walking breaks every half hour to counteract prolonged sitting for improved physical and mental well-being.
Explore innovative solutions like chair exercises and regular breaks to maintain physical well-being throughout the day.
Deep dives
Importance of Understanding Sitting Culture
Sitting and its impact on our culture are discussed, highlighting how sitting is deeply ingrained in our daily activities, from work to social interactions. The podcast delves into the repercussions of prolonged sitting, emphasizing the need for breaks and movement to counteract the negative effects of sedentary behavior.
Physical Effects of Sitting and Benefits of Movement
Research findings from Columbia University Medical Center are shared, revealing the harmful effects of prolonged sitting on health. The benefits of incorporating gentle walking breaks every half hour to combat the adverse effects of sitting are highlighted, demonstrating improved physical and mental well-being through regular movement.
Challenges and Innovations in Incorporating Movement
The challenges individuals face in implementing movement breaks, especially in work environments, are discussed. The podcast explores innovative solutions like chair exercises and regular breaks for professions that involve extensive sitting, offering alternatives for maintaining physical well-being throughout the day.
Norms and Practices Surrounding Movement at Work
The evolving norms and practices related to movement during work hours, including using treadmill desks or engaging in physical activity during calls, are analyzed. The discussion touches on societal perceptions of productivity and the importance of finding a balance between movement, work efficiency, and overall well-being.
Driving, attending meetings, hunching over laptops, zooming, commuting, absentmindedly scrolling Instagram — so much of contemporary life encourages if not outright demands that we sit. But study after study (and maybe just your own body) has told you: this much sitting is not great for us. But what are we supposed to do instead? Can we get rid of the junk wellness moralizing (10,000 steps a day!) and figure out small things that actually make our bodies feel better?
Turns out, yes! And Manoush Zomorodi is here to talk about all of it — including whether those walking pads are b******t. And I promise: this show won't make you feel like a horrible person for sitting. But it might give you some ideas about how you can listen to your body more.
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