Sitting is the new Smoking: Sit Less & Move More

In recent years, health experts have coined a provocative phrase: “sitting is the new smoking.” While it may sound extreme, this comparison highlights the growing body of research linking prolonged sitting to serious health risks. Just as smoking once flew under the radar as a health threat, our increasingly sedentary lifestyles are now taking a quiet toll on our well-being.

Many of us spend most of our day sitting — at desks, in cars, on couches, and in front of screens. The word on the streets is the average adult sits for more than 9 hours a day. Unfortunately, our bodies were not designed for couch potato activity. The amazing body was created with approximately 360 joints.  It was delicately designed to MOVE.  Many chronic health issues that are associated with lack of activity such as prolonged sitting may include obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer (which just happen to be leading causes of death in America also).

One of the most concerning effects of long periods of sitting is its impact on our bodily organ that beats every second of the day and night. When we sit for extended periods, our circulation slows, and our muscles — particularly in the legs and glutes — become inactive. This can lead to poor blood flow, increased blood pressure, and higher cholesterol levels. Over time, these changes significantly raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Sitting also negatively affects metabolism. Studies have found that insulin sensitivity drops after just a day of excessive sitting, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar. This opens the door for weight gain and type 2 diabetes. The key is to reduce the amount of time you spend sitting throughout the day. So, what can you do? The solution isn’t to stand all day, which comes with its own set of problems, but rather to move more often. Incorporating short movement breaks into your day can significantly improve your health. Try standing or walking for five minutes every hour. Use a standing desk or take phone calls while walking or standing. Stretch during TV commercials. Even small changes can lead to big improvements over time. Mindset is crucial. “Sit less and move more!” Schedule walking meetings. Set hourly reminders to stand. Consider investing in an under-desk pedal bike or balance board. Movement doesn’t need to be strenuous — it needs to be consistent.

The phrase “sitting is the new smoking” is a call to action in a world where convenience often comes at the cost of our health. The good news? The solution is simple and accessible. By making a conscious effort to sit less and move more, we can protect our bodies, boost our energy, and live longer, healthier lives. The time to move is NOW!

 Dr. Nekita Sullivan is the owner of Yoga Therapy Bar. She provides holistic health and wellness services including physical therapy, therapeutic yoga, and clinical Pilates for your body and mind. She is a healthcare provider with 25 years of experience. She provides services for individuals, youth, adults, athletes, special needs, and corporations. You are welcome to contact her for more information by email at info@yogatherapybar.com or on the web at www.yogatherapybar.com.Movement is medicine for the physical and mental health and wellness of your body and mind. #yogatherapybar #holistic #wellness #mindbody #movementismedicine #yogatherapybar #sittingisthenewsmoking#sitless #movemore

Movement is medicine for body and mind,

Dr. Nekita Sullivan

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