The Importance of Movement

As a chiropractor, it’s no secret that we see patients who suffer from pain and stiffness every day. Sometimes, that pain and stiffness can be attributed to a lack of movement in their daily lives. While many of us have sedentary jobs or lifestyles, it’s important to make movement a priority in order to maintain health and wellbeing.

Tricks to Sneak More Movement Into Your Day

Movement is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Every time you move your body, your deep posture muscles communicate with your brain to do what it knows it needs to do. It can also improve circulation, strengthen muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Movement can help alleviate stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost cognitive function.

Unfortunately, many of us spend a large portion of our day sitting, whether it’s at a desk, in a car, or on the couch. This can lead to a host of health problems, including poor posture, muscle imbalances, and joint stiffness. That’s why it’s important to find ways to incorporate movement into our daily lives, even if we have sedentary jobs or lifestyles.

1. Take a Movement Break. Instead of taking a coffee break, take a walk break. Even a 10-15 minute walk can help improve circulation and reduce stress. If you’re working from home, take a walk around the block or do a few laps around your house. We always recommend using a timer app on your phone or work computer that will remind you to get up and stretch or move on an hourly basis.
2. Find a Movement Buddy. Finding a friend or coworker who is also interested in movement can be a great way to stay motivated. You can take walking breaks together, do deskercises together, or even join a fitness class.
3. Practice Active Sitting. This can be done on an exercise ball or cushion, which requires you to engage your core and balance.
4. Use a Pedometer or Fitness Tracker. Setting a daily step goal will help you challenge yourself and offer motivation to move more.
5. Walk and Talk. When taking phone calls, try walking around your office or home, or even pacing in place. This can help increase your daily step count and keep your body moving throughout the day.

Here’s a homework assignment: think of 2-3 ways to sneak movement into your day. Let us know at your next appointment so we can keep you accountable!

Never seen a chiropractor yet? Let us help you! Schedule your nervous system examination today with Dr. Shawna or Dr. Craig :)