The sedentary life epidemic
The sedentary epidemic is a growing public health concern that has been linked to several chronic health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. A sedentary lifestyle is characterized by prolonged periods of sitting or inactivity and a lack of physical activity. This problem is becoming increasingly prevalent in today's society due to the increasing use of technology and the rise of sedentary jobs.
One of the major contributing factors to the sedentary epidemic is the use of technology. With the increasing popularity of smartphones, tablets, and computers, people are spending more time sitting and less time engaging in physical activity. This is particularly true for children and adolescents, who are spending more time playing video games and using social media instead of participating in sports or other physical activities. Additionally, the rise of sedentary jobs, such as office work and driving, has led to more time spent sitting and less time spent being physically active. This issue is emphasized when working from home became a thing. Because we do not even need to commute, our lives have become even more sedentary. In a place with accessible food everywhere, food delivery has allowed us to stay indoors even longer.
The health consequences of a sedentary lifestyle are well-documented. Prolonged sitting has been linked to a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Sitting for long periods can also lead to poor posture, back pain, and a decline in overall fitness levels. Our bodies were not designed to sit behind a desk for hours but made to move, crawl, climb, jump, run, squat. Once we stop performing such movements, we become adapted to what we do most- sit behind a desk. Muscles get deconditioned if we do not engage in exercise. Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle can also affect mental health, leading to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Keeping active allows endorphins to be released, which attributes to the runner’s high. When we achieve or complete a hard workout or a new personal record, we also get a dose of dopamine and feel accomplished.
To combat the sedentary epidemic, individuals need to increase their level of physical activity and reduce the amount of time spent sitting. This can be achieved by incorporating physical activity into daily routines, such as walking or biking to work or school, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and participating in regular exercise or sports. In recent years, bike paths have been constructed in more and more neighborhoods, allowing cycling to be performed safely. Park connectors also allow connections via bike paths throughout most of Singapore. Additionally, it is important to take frequent breaks while sitting and to engage in stretching movements, or other forms of light activity. Simple stretches performed in standing, or squatting break up the strain accumulated from prolonged sitting.
Employers can also play a role in addressing the sedentary epidemic by promoting active lifestyles among employees. This can be achieved through initiatives such as providing standing desks, promoting physical activity during lunch breaks, and encouraging employees to take regular breaks throughout the day. Furthermore, employers can also provide incentives for employees to participate in physical activities, such as gym memberships or fitness classes. Some companies also engage health coaches to give talks to guide staff on healthy living. This would enrich the lives of staff which would in turn boost productivity.
In conclusion, the sedentary epidemic is a growing public health concern that is linked to several chronic health conditions. The increasing use of technology and the rise of sedentary jobs are major contributing factors to this problem. To combat the sedentary epidemic, individuals need to increase their level of physical activity and reduce the amount of time spent sitting, while employers can play a role in promoting active lifestyles among employees. By taking steps to address the sedentary epidemic, we can improve overall health and well-being and reduce the burden of chronic diseases.
Take the next step and fight a sedentary lifestyle.
