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There’s been a longstanding belief that excessive sedentary behavior, such as desk-based work, can negatively affect our health, potentially reducing muscular strength and increasing the risk of heart disease. However, some suggest that not all sitting positions carry these risks. Some people uphold that sitting on the floor could be genuinely beneficial for your health if done regularly.
In discussion with HuffPost, various experts pointed out the pros and cons of floor-based sitting, highlighting that no singular posture is ideal. According to their assessment, sitting on the floor, particularly in a crossed-leg position, can promote mobility and flexibility. Most adults don’t often sit on the floor in this way; however, children who regularly do, might be reaping the health benefits.
Dr. Christopher Bise, assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh, supports this notion. He remarks that sitting cross-legged could aid mobility and flexibility in the hips, lower back, and knees. He explains that this posture helps keep the lower body flexible, which, in turn, supports healthy musculoskeletal conditions.
Sitting on a chair often leads to tight hamstrings, observes Dr. Jennifer O’Connell, a physiatrist from the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. Hence, sitting cross-legged on the floor could be a practical solution to this problem.
Dr. Bise adds that even if you’re not able to sit on the floor, there are other ways to work on your flexibility and mobility. You can try doing similar postures on a couch or various other sitting positions that help increase the range of motion.
As you age, having a proper range of motion becomes increasingly crucial for activities such as house chores, errands, and playing with children or grandchildren. One common issue with aging is reduced flexibility, although, as Dr. Bise states, we don’t inherently have to be less flexible. Keeping up with proper physical exercising, regularly transitioning from sitting on the floor, to a chair, to walking, can help maintain mobility and flexibility.
Aside from benefiting your range of motion, sitting on the ground may engage your core muscles in ways that sitting on a chair does not, according to Dr. O’Connell. The action of arising from a seated position on the floor exercises your hips, knees, lower body chain, and core.
However, both experts caution against sitting on the floor all day. Balance and regular motion are also important aspects of maintaining good health. They suggest sitting on the ground for about 30 minutes or shifting sitting postures frequently.
Lastly, while floor sitting has its benefits, it may not be ideal for everyone, particularly for those with joint issues or recovering from surgeries or injuries. People with these conditions should consult with a doctor or physical therapist before adopting a new sitting routine. They also advise against forcing your body into postures and positions that aren’t safe for you.
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