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Is “sitting” the new “smoking”?

According to Mayo Clinic, any extended sitting — such as at a desk, behind a wheel or in front of a screen — can be harmful.

But based on multiple studies, the answer to the above is still up for debate!

However, it seems clear that less sitting and more moving overall contribute to better health.

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, back pain is one of the American’s most common health problems, with 1 out of 4 people experiencing back pain 1 day out of every 3 months.  More pressure is applied through your low back when you sit versus stand.

You might start by simply standing rather than sitting when you have the chance or finding ways to walk while you work.

Here are a few wellness tips:

• Take a break from sitting every 30 minutes. Set an alarm on your phone or computer.
• Stand while talking on the phone or watching television.
• If you work at a desk, try a sit-to-stand desk. Do this in in
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What is Myofascial Release?

Through Myofascial Release, as a patient and as a therapist, I understand the importance of treating the whole body, not just the symptoms, and that every ‘body’ is unique based on their response to life circumstances.

Myofascial Release (MFR, John F Barnes approach) is a very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle, varied, sustained pressure and elongation into the body’s fascia. Fascia is the body’s connective tissue. Think about it as a three-dimensional spider web that is found throughout the entire body. It extends from head to toe, surrounding every system in our body, and is responsible for our structure/shape.

​Good sleep is just as important as diet and exercise. When you sleep, your body and mind regenerate from the stress of the day. And the need for sleep never goes away – especially if you’re pushing yourself creatively, professionally, or athletically.  It is recommended, adults get an average of 7-8 hours of sleep per night.  

​Read on to learn some of the side effects of not getting enough sleep, benefits of good sleep, and tips to experience better sleep.

Side Effects of Sleep Deprivation:

1. Long term mood disorders
2. Sickness
3. Diabetes
4. Infertility 
5. Weight gain
6. Low libido 
7. Heart disease

Benefits of Good Sleep:

1. Increases concentration and productivity 
2. Boots immune function
3. Maximizes athletic performance 
4. Improves memory
5. Reduces inflammation 
6. Reduces stress
7. Increases energy and alertness
8. Healthy weight management 
9. Muscle, tissue and skin repair
10. Heart rate decreases and digestive system rests

Tips for Better Sleep:

1. Create a bedtime routine
2. Avoid caffeine later
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Summer is filled with outdoor fun, vacations, and the tendency to cram in as much activity as possible before school starts up again.

If you find yourself getting carried away in the hustle and bustle of the summer season, try one of my favorite and most effective whole-body self-treatments - Self Unwinding.  It’s my way of “unwinding” my mind and body, especially after a week of fun-filled activities and preparing for a busy week ahead.  

Enjoy this video of Self Myofascial Unwinding led by John F. Barnes, my mentor and Father of Myofascial Release.  Give it a try and share your experience, or share your favorite way of “unwinding” after a busy holiday/vacation.

​If you are looking for some help in learning to "unwind," make an appointment to see me today.