WELLNESS
BY CHARIS TORRANCE
Sitting all day may not be killing you, but it can leave your body stiff, your mind foggy, and your productivity on the floor. A little regular movement can improve the workday dramatically.
Is sitting all day killing you? Probably not. But it definitely is affecting your energy, focus, and productivity. Who would have thought that one of the secrets to getting more done was spending less time being glued to your desk?
“ Movement affects the brain, leading to better concentration and improved mental clarity because of the stimulation of blood flow to the brain and other body parts,” says Colette de Vries, owner and founder of Pilates for Life at Spice Route Destination.“ This leads to fewer attention dips and better sustained focus in the afternoon hours.”
“ You’ ve heard the saying:‘ Sitting is the new smoking!’” says Colette. While that may be a tad dramatic, sitting for long periods is associated with a higher risk of several health problems, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, poor circulation, and, most commonly, chronic lower back pain.
“ It also causes postural strain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back,” she adds.“ Adding simple movements during your work day that get you out of your office chair will help to counterbalance some of these problems.”
You could invest in a walking pad or a standing desk, but Colette has simpler, more practical ways to bring movement into your working day.
“ Honestly, any movement is better than none,” she says. Her advice is to pick something you enjoy,“ or at least don’ t hate”, and aim for just 10 minutes of movement during office hours.
“ It needs to be something that is uncomplicated and practical enough to do in the office – you can even paste a sticky note on your computer screen as a reminder to keep moving.”
Colette recommends these simple movements:
1. TAKE THE STAIRS Whenever possible, take the stairs, and step outside for fresh air at least twice a day.
JULY 2026 / INBOUND SA 75