Simple exercises you can perform at your work desk
Stuck in a desk job? You are not alone. However, it means that you probably don't get enough time to take care of your health. Sitting for a long number of hours can cause digestive problems, pain in neck, shoulder and back, obesity-induced problems, and other health issues. Here are five simple stretches you can perform right at your desk to keep healthy.
To avoid muscle tension
'Sky catcher' is a simple exercise to perform anywhere, and it would be quite easy to do it while sitting in a chair. All you have to do is interlock the fingers of both your hands, fully open the arms, and stretch them upwards as far as possible, towards the ceiling, and hold this position for 10 seconds. Perform a few repetitions.
To avoid neck pain
Neck pain is among the most common problems caused by prolonged sitting. Not to worry, with simple stretches done at your work place, it can be avoided. Try this - Start by sitting tall in your chair, slowly drop your left ear down to your left shoulder, and repeat with the alternating side. Perform as many repetitions as you feel like.
To manage shoulder pain
As simple as looking around at what's happening at the workplace can help with the shoulder pain. You first have to look straight, then move your neck to one of your sides and look over your shoulder as far as possible. Repeat with the other side. Perform a good number of repetitions to keep your shoulder in a good condition in the long run.
To get relief from strain
While seated in your chair, raise your right arm as high as possible, and simultaneously also stretch your left leg as far as it goes, and keep it in the air. Now bring your raised, i.e. your right arm down, and try to touch your left foot with it. This is a wholesome exercise. 8-10 repetitions on both sides should be good.
To reduce pain in back and shoulders
Start by sitting straight in your chair, pick both your shoulders up as high as you can, hold on for a couple of seconds and then drop them, bringing them back to their initial position. Perform a few repetitions. This stretch can help reduce pains in your shoulders, neck, and back. Needless to say, all these stretches will naturally improve your productivity at work.
