For many of us, sitting down all day at work or home can cause a range of issues from stiff muscles to poor posture. To help combat this, a growing number of physiotherapists are now promoting active sitting as an alternative to traditional chair seating. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of active sitting and how it can be incorporated into daily life with the help of Mensendieck, a type of physiotherapy.

Active sitting is an approach to seating that focuses on engaging the body rather than using furniture that forces the body into a static position. It encourages people to move their bodies while they sit, thus preventing them from becoming too stiff or uncomfortable. Physiotherapists recommend active sitting because it helps promote good posture and reduce muscle tension, as well as reducing stress and fatigue throughout the day. Active sitting can be achieved through the use of ergonomic chairs, stools, and standing desks, which are designed to allow for movement and comfortable postures. In addition, it encourages people to periodically stand and stretch, which can further increase comfort and alertness.

Mensendieck helps you become aware of your posture and encourages you to find the optimal body position for any given activity. It involves simple exercises to help strengthen your core muscles and promote proper alignment. By learning how to sit properly and using the right muscles for support, you can prevent the pain and fatigue that often accompanies prolonged sitting.

Here are some simple tips on how to sit and incorporate active sitting.

1. Adjust Your Chair Height: Make sure that your chair is at the right height so that your feet can be placed flat on the floor, with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
2. Sit Upright: You should keep your spine in an upright position as much as possible, without slouching or arching your back. The backrest of your chair should be set so that it supports your lower back. Use a wobble stool if you can as this causes you to move your back muscles.
3. Use a Footrest: If necessary, use a footrest to help support your feet and keep them flat on the floor. This can help to improve your posture and reduce strain on your legs.
4. Move Around Regularly: Change your position every 20 minutes or so. Try stretching, standing up, and walking around if you can. This helps to keep the blood flowing and prevents stiffness.