Are you slouching in front of your computer right now?

What is posture and why should you care ?

Posture refers to the way you hold your body while sitting or standing. Did you know that just sitting for long periods can cause numerous injuries and strain to your body? Did you know it can even lead to early death?

Some consequences associated with sitting for too long

You burn less calories because your metabolism slows down— leading to more stored fat in your body It increases your risk of Diabetes and Heart Disease It could result in Chronic Pain of the lower back, neck and shoulder — which could cause low quality sleep and insomnia Sitting for long periods and leading a sedentary life is linked to Early Death

Allah (SWT) said:

{وَلَا تُلْقُوا بِأَيْدِيكُمْ إِلَى التَّهْلُكَةِ}

“and do not throw yourselves with your own hands into destruction” (Aya: 195 — Al-Baqara)

We care about our bodies, because it’s Amanah, and we have to take care of that Amanah.

Tips to consider

If the most part of your day consists of sitting in front of a computer, or in meetings, your health may be suffering. There are things you can do to improve your health and decrease the risks associated with this problem.

Use exercise balls instead of normal chairs for periods during the day

instead of normal chairs for periods during the day Take the stairs instead of elevator whenever you can.

instead of elevator whenever you can. Take a break from your desk every 30–40 minutes and walk for 2–4 minutes.

from your desk every 30–40 minutes and walk for 2–4 minutes. Have standing desks available in the office.

Have Walking meetings.

Install a program that reminds you to take a break and/or exercise, e.g. Time out , Workrave .

. Manage your screen, light, chair, keyboard and mouse placement.

Use a laptop with an external keyboard and mouse .

. Don’t cross your legs when sitting.

Use a chair with lumbar support .

. Do periodic stretching exercises with resistance bands or horizontal pull up bars.

with resistance bands or horizontal pull up bars. Remember to consciously correct your posture when sitting or standing.

You can’t get rid of the need to sit for long periods of time altogether, but periodic stretching and paying conscious attention to the way you carry your body can mean a world of difference.

References