Observational and experimental evidence suggest that replacing prolonged periods of sitting with regular, small-amplitude bouts of movement can mitigate the adverse effects on cardiovascular health associated with excessive time spent in sedentary postures.
For humans, whose evolutionary pressures favor conserving energy, this seems counterintuitive. But a USC study suggests that sitting less and moving more could help prevent the most serious consequences of sedentary behavior.
Discover the benefits of floor sitting for flexibility and posture in Mind And Motion Pilates article. Embrace this holistic approach to movement for a healthier lifestyle.
1. It’s Comfortable
While many people spend long periods of time sitting, our bodies are designed to move. In fact, the movement of sitting and standing help to stimulate muscle activity. This activity can lower the health risks associated with too much time spent in sedentary positions.
Health professionals and researchers recommend squatting, cross-legged and other positions that encourage a low natural curvature of the spine called the lumbar lordosis. The curve is essential for posture and back health. Several studies claim that sitting on chairs flattens the curve and leads to increased load on discs and spinal structures a contributing factor to chronic back pain.
The Floor Manifesto suggests that a chair with a higher seat supports the lumbar curve better than traditional seats. Sitting high also opens airways and allows you to focus on work for longer periods of time without straining the neck or eyes.
2. It’s Natural
A new trend known as “floor time,” which has garnered 19 million views on TikTok, suggests that a break from sitting in chairs could improve posture and promote longevity. When people sit cross-legged on the floor, it’s said to bring about an inward natural curvature of the spine called a lumbar lordosis and stabilize the lower back and pelvis region.
A chiropractor in Louisiana who specializes in treating back and neck pain, says that sitting on the floor can strengthen muscles in your core and upper and lower back that are rarely used while sitting in a chair. This, in turn, could help prevent pain in your shoulders and back over time. In addition, he says, sitting on the floor can increase flexibility.
3. It’s Uncomfortable
Sitting too long puts stress on certain bones and muscles, making them sore and causing problems. Those problems can often be fixed by moving and changing positions.
Siting low on the floor can help improve posture and alignment. It also encourages the natural curve of the lower back (lumbar lordosis) and helps with stability in the hips and pelvic area.
However, it can also put extra stress on the knees and ankles. This can be a problem for those with existing joint issues or for anyone who has difficulty getting up from the floor. It can also cause pain if done incorrectly. This is why it’s important to learn about different types of sitting low and find the right one for you. Practicing with the help of a knowledgeable Feldenkrais therapist can be helpful.
4. It’s Invigorating
Sitting low encourages a neutral spine and improves posture. It also promotes better pelvic movement, which can reduce lower back pain. When sitting cross-legged, the hip and groin muscles stretch and become more flexible over time, making it easier to sit comfortably for longer periods.
It also strengthens core and back muscles that are not used as often when sitting in a chair. Sitting crisscrossed on the floor also encourages good circulation and helps alleviate those “pins and needles” feelings in the legs and feet that can be caused by prolonged sitting in chairs.
It’s important to note that you should not sit on the floor for extended periods of time without support. It’s best to start small and increase your time as you get comfortable.
5. It’s Healthy
The health crises and societal distancing brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic have led to large reductions in physical activity and increases in sedentary behavior. This shift in the balance between movement and rest is a major concern for our long-term health.
Fortunately, there are alternatives to sitting on chairs. The squatting and kneeling positions commonly used for resting on the floor can help keep our muscles active.
They also encourage a more natural spine curvature and posture, which is important for spinal stability. And they can provide a gentle stretch for the hips and core muscles. This may reduce the risk of back pain and stiffness, as well as improve hip flexibility and mobility. But it is not recommended for people with existing joint problems.