Most people would not consider “sitting” to be a health risk. If you are reading correctly, sit down! It’s such a common and comfortable position that it’s hard to imagine there could be anything wrong with it. In the West, we tend to do almost everything sitting down, eating, working, reading, and even going to the bathroom.
So, let’s start with a brief explanation of how the body responds to prolonged periods of “sitting.”
You head to the office to start another day of work. You sit in your ergonomic chair to begin your routine. Immediately your blood pressure drops and your metabolism slows down slightly. Most of the muscles that are needed to stand, walk, jump, and complete most of your daily actions begin to relax. Your glutes are deactivated. When you are sitting comfortably in your chair, your abdominals – which act as the main stabilizers – begin to soften.
Most of your body weight is now supported by your glutes. Centuries ago the bones were constantly challenged and forced. This was due to the repeated application of force through the actions of walking, running, and standing. Provoking the conduction of nutrients in the bone fibers, making them stronger. However, nowadays when we sit down our bones tend to be more fragile.
Sitting every day at 90 degrees causes the hip flexor muscles to shorten. Additionally, this forces the spine to adopt an unnatural curvature. It is considered healthy to sit for short periods. But when it is for longer periods, the lower back muscles are involved to help maintain the peculiar posture. The lower column is forced to compress, which was not designed to withstand this situation.
Unfortunately, this is just the beginning. Many other subtle changes occur when sitting for long periods. But what is the problem? We always hear about how adaptable the body is, right? Shouldn’t the body’s anatomy adjust? A group of researchers says this is not the case.
Dr. James Levine, Director of the Mayo Clinic – ASU Obesity Solutions, is famous for his recent statement: “Sitting is worse than smoking.” And it turns out he’s not the only one who thinks this. Many researchers have found a direct relationship between sitting for prolonged periods and some diseases. Such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even various types of cancer.
It seems time to rethink this seemingly natural posture and look for a better alternative.
Squatting is a posture that has caught the attention of those trying to prevent or reverse illnesses related to sitting. This is nothing new the squatting position has been used in many cultures for centuries. Although in the West this is not the case, better late than never!
Without further ado, let’s take a look at what squatting is all about.
The benefits of squatting
Squatting regularly is the best way to prevent or even reverse the damage described above.
Anatomically, the position stretches the lower back, decompressing the spine and freeing the hips. The weight of the body is distributed more evenly in this position, preventing the accumulation of stress at some points.
Joints and muscles no longer undergo gradual hardening. Allowing the body to remain balanced. The final results? Increased mobility, so you should consider this as an investment in your future.
The pose also provides numerous benefits if you practice it while going to the bathroom. Squatting essentially eliminates the kinks in the colon that often occur when using the conventional toilet. This allows the colon to evacuate completely and with much less effort.
Diseases such as hemorrhoids, diverticula, or even colon cancer are just some of the ailments that can be prevented if you adopt the squatting position when going to the bathroom.
Depending on your spiritual perception you can also experience a series of benefits. In Chinese medicine, tension in muscles and tendons is believed to impede the flow of “chi” or “life force” throughout the body. And by removing this tension you can free the flow of chi and help the body return to a state of optimal health.
It is also believed that the squatting position can help you become more connected to the earth. Those who are familiar with the body’s chakra system will know that the body’s first energy center is located at the base of the spine near the perineum. Known for its ability to connect us with the earth’s energy field. It is believed that by squatting you can improve this energy transfer. And what is the result? A large amount of energy is used by the body for healing and restoration.
The technique for the squat position
Below we present some steps to follow, which will help you get into the squat position and get the most out of it!
- Step 1: The first step starts in your closet. This may sound strange but you will be able to relate it quickly. Make sure you have a pair of shorts or baggy pants. In the squatting world, there are few things more frustrating than feeling limited. This is important information if you plan to squat for a long period.
- Step 2: Place your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart. Initially, the position with a wider posture will likely be more comfortable. Over time you may be able to limit your posture so that your feet can almost meet. This will take time, so be patient.
- Step 3: Make sure you have someone or something you can hold on to if you fall at first.
- Step 4: Slowly lower yourself into a squatting position. The idea is to keep your feet firmly planted on the floor until you achieve the full position. If you can’t reach the ground with your heels, simply place a folded towel on your heels. Separate the thighs and knees, placing them on the sides of the trunk.
- Step 5: You should make this experience part of your daily routine, just a couple of minutes a day. Some may even feel inspired to squat at some point while working. It’s also a great opportunity to reflect and focus on your body.
There is nothing more satisfying than dedicating time to your health, well-being, and personal growth.
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