Reducing the Effects of Sitting
There’s no denying that advancements in technology have made our lives easier. We can work from home, shop online, and watch newly released movies, among many other things, all without leaving the couch. And while this saves us travel time and hassle, it can lead to unexpected health consequences.
The reason is that we are sitting for prolonged periods, which can deteriorate our bodies. Even worse is our children are also sitting a great deal, so they are now faced with the same issues that adults have been. Therefore, children need to keep their bodies moving throughout the day.
The Machine Needs Movement
The human body is like a machine. If we sit too long or too much, our bodies become rusty and aren’t easy to move. Children today are not only sitting in school but for much of their evenings and weekends thanks to technology. The significant damage that can result, over time, can lead to heart disease, obesity, posture issues, neck and back pain, and poor circulation, to name a few.
But not only are they more prone to developing diseases earlier, but studies have also shown that sitting can negatively affect their mental health as well. In addition, sitting causes fatigue, affecting concentration, which is a necessary element for optimal learning and retention. Prolonged sitting also makes it difficult for the vestibular system to develop correctly, leading to a disorganized brain and lack of spatial awareness.
Counteract the Effects
The good thing is we can counteract these effects with movement, which increases blood flow and creates new brain cells. Since fidgeting and poor attention are often symptoms of lack of movement opportunities, it’s crucial to get children up and going as much as possible throughout the day.
In school, teachers can take quick stretch breaks between subjects and encourage children to run and play during recess. Parents can limit tech time at home and create opportunities to get moving, such as family walks, sports, or simply outside playtime. By being proactive, parents can reduce the risk of their children developing long-term physical and mental health issues and ensure that they have a solid foundation for healthy habits.
How SKILLZ Helps Movement
One way to counteract the adverse effects of prolonged sitting is through classes at SKILLZ Character Development Centers, like Southwest Arkansas Taekwondo. These classes aim to develop children’s physical skills while also engaging their brains. This approach helps children’s bodies physically develop and nurtures brain development through the release of positive chemicals. Combined, these things counteract disease, improve mental health, and enhance concentration and learning.
In addition, the adult classes offered can give adults time to focus on themselves and role model healthy habits. When the whole family trains either in altogether or in their own separate classes, this also strengthens the parent-child bond and provides an activity where everyone can get moving at home to practice.
Must Move Daily
As technology continues to advance, our lives will become easier but at what cost to our health? Machines, especially complex ones like the human body, must be moved daily. Therefore, parents must encourage and role model healthy movement throughout each day. These simple things can instill future health habits while also giving parents and children time to connect each day through activities together.
