Sitting is the New Smoking
Long hours of sitting, frequent use of digital devices, repetitive motions, and disconnection from nature can take a toll on both the body and mind. Modern habits such as these contribute to imbalances, reduced mobility, and increased stress. A study analyzing data from over one million people revealed that sitting for more than eight hours a day without physical activity carries a risk of death similar to that of smoking or obesity.
Our bodies are designed for movement, and when we don’t move regularly, certain patterns and imbalances begin to develop.
Here’s a closer look at these primary patterns and how Therapeutic Yoga poses can help restore balance and counteract them:
#1 Forward Head Posture & Rounded Shoulders
Often caused by too much screen time, this pattern shifts the head forward, straining the neck and upper back muscles, which can lead to tension headaches and chronic neck pain. Sitting at desks, hunching over devices, or driving for long periods can create a rounded shoulder posture. This tightens the chest muscles and weakens the upper back, leading to shoulder and neck tension.
Supported backbends, external shoulder rotation and laying on the flat surface of the floor are the antidote to forward head posture and rounded shoulders. These poses gently open the chest and counteract the habitual rounding of the upper back caused by sitting and hunching over devices.
#2 Shortened Hip Flexors and Weak Glutes
Sitting for extended periods shortens the hip flexors and weakens the glutes, which can lead to imbalances and lower back pain as they pull the pelvis into an anterior tilt, impacting alignment.
Therapeutic Yoga Poses that help lengthen the hip flexors and strengthen the glutes. Lunges and active backbends effectively strengthen the glutes while simultaneously lengthening the hip flexors, creating balance and stability in the pelvis and lower body.
#3 Reduced Spinal Mobility
Lack of movement in the spine from prolonged sitting or screen use decreases rotation and extension in the upper spine, affecting breathing and overall posture.
Moving Your Spine in All Directions is Incredibly Healing!
Your spine is designed to move in flexion (forward bending), extension (backward bending), lateral flexion (side bending), and rotation (twisting), supporting a full range of motion for functional movement and spinal health. Every Therapeutic Yoga class aims to move the spine in all these directions.
It’s time to take action and prioritize your health by breaking free from the patterns of a sedentary lifestyle. Therapeutic Yoga offers a valuable solution to restore balance, mobility, and vitality. Don’t let the habits of modern life strain your body and mind—dedicate yourself to your practice and give yourself the care and attention you deserve.
Join us for classes and experience how Therapeutic Yoga can transform the way you feel, move, and live. Practice with us either in person or online.
If you feel called to explore this work more deeply, I invite you to join me for the upcoming Therapeutic Yoga Teacher Training. Click here to get all the details and take the next step in your journey.
