Unlocking the Secrets of Pelvic Floor Health: The Hidden Dangers of Prolonged Sitting

June 19, 2024

In today’s modern lifestyle, sitting has become almost synonymous with daily living. From office desks to long commutes and cozy evenings on the couch, we spend a significant portion of our day seated. Yet, what many may not realize is the profound impact that prolonged sitting can have on our pelvic floor health.

Why should we be concerned about sitting, you may wonder? Well, in a recent article I read they called sitting the “new smoking” because of all the negative impacts it has on the body. When we sit for extended durations, and have periods of prolonged immobility our pelvic floor muscles remain inactive, essentially becoming locked in place. This lack of movement not only restricts blood flow but also leads to stiffness and tightness in the pelvic region.

But fear not, there is a beacon of hope: movement. Incorporating purposeful movement breaks into our daily routines to counteract the negative effects of sitting can make a huge difference in our pelvic floor function. Whether it’s a few minutes of side-to-side rocking, forward-backward tilting, or pelvic circles, these simple exercises can work wonders in stimulating blood flow and preventing pelvic floor issues.

With my clients I recommend  the importance of taking breaks every one to two hours, encouraging them to set reminders for movement, especially during prolonged sitting sessions. These microbursts of movement not only benefit our pelvic floor health but also contribute to overall well-being.

While sitting isn’t inherently bad, moderation and purposeful movement are key. By unlocking the secrets of pelvic floor health and prioritizing movement, we can safeguard ourselves against the hidden dangers of prolonged sitting.

So, the next time you find yourself glued to your seat, remember to give your pelvic floor the attention it deserves. Your body will thank you for it in the long run.

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