Now that technology has given us the ability to accomplish more in a shorter period of time, many of us find ourselves sitting behind a desk all day staring at a computer screen. Sometimes this is not a bad thing as long as it’s temporary, believing that the future holds exciting advancement. However, one of the drawbacks to this high tech world is the lack of bodily movement, which can result in unwanted weight gain and a decline in health.
Get Unplugged
If you have ever seen the movie The Matrix, then you can appreciate the fact that just short of plugging the internet into the back of our heads, our society today is pretty much living in a virtual world. We have the ability to work, shop, and even meet people from the tips of our fingers through the internet. Though our minds are stimulated continually, our bodies are sedentary. Over time, this can cause a decrease in strength, stamina, and overall health.
Many times people blame the dramatic change in their bodies on age, but the real issue is their reduced energy expenditure. Here is an example: we sit at work for eight or more hours a day, get in our vehicles and sit in traffic on the way home, and then eat dinner and sit on the couch.
Typically, children and young adults are very active. As we join the grown-up world, we tend to get caught up in the busyness of life and allow ourselves to become sedentary. In addition to these inactive lifestyles, fast-paced eating habits (fast food) contribute to weight gain and a decrease in health.
Take a Stand or a Walk
So what can someone do to change this vicious cycle? Simple, start standing up every hour and begin doing a few knee bends right there at your desk. I know what you’re thinking, “People will think I’m crazy!” See what they think in eight weeks when you look and feel better.
The lower body contains the largest muscle groups of the body. When these muscles are kept in shape then the body’s metabolism increases thus converting carbohydrates into fuel instead of storing energy in the adipose tissue (fat cells).
For lunch try going for a walk after you eat. Nothing too physical, just something to get the blood flowing. By doing these few things you’ll find that it will not only benefit you physically down the road, but you’ll also have more energy mid-afternoon. That’s right, no more falling asleep or drooling on your computer keyboards.
Another Level
Once this lifestyle has been implemented into your daily work routine for a few months, you might want to take it to another level. First thing in the morning before you shower or eat try doing ten pushups, ten sit-ups, and ten jumping jacks. In the evenings, after dinner go for a walk around the neighborhood.
You’ll be amazed how burning these small amounts of energy throughout the day can accumulate and help you keep off unwanted weight and better maintain your health. Before you know it, your colleagues will be asking you for advice. Stick with it!
