3 Exercises to Do at Your Desk Every Day
With all the time we spend driving, typing, scrolling, and swiping, we hold lots of tension in our bodies. To relieve the stress of daily activity, try doing these exercises for five to 10 minutes several times a day, especially if you sit at a desk most of the time. Regular practice can greatly improve your energy level, increase your sense of calm and relaxation, and enhance your overall well-being.
- Squeeze your shoulder blades gently together. This will release the tension in the muscles known as the rhomboids. Hold for at least one minute.
- Put both hands on the back of your head and pull your head forward until you feel a slight stretch. Gently push backward into your hands for five or six seconds; then pull your head forward into a deeper stretch. Do the same from side to side, pulling your head to one side using the palm of the hand on that side.
- Gently twist your palm, using the other hand to help, so that your thumb faces down. Hold for at least one minute. This will release tension in the elbow and wrist.
Here are three more tips for keeping your body healthy and posture aligned at work:
- Sit with your feet slightly turned in. This will take strain off the low back and the knees.
- Sit with a pillow placed in the lumbar curve. This is just above your hip bones. The pillow should be thick enough to bring your head back over your shoulders and open the chest. This position should feel comfortable. This will contribute to overall good posture and alleviate neck and back pain.
- When sitting at your desk, keep your elbows by your side. Arms should be bent about 90 degrees. This will also help alleviate neck and shoulder pain.
Lee Albert, NMT, creator of Integrated Positional Therapy, is an author and a neuromuscular therapist and yoga instructor trained in orthopedic massage, positional therapy, and yoga therapy.
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