Wed Apr 26 2023
How Smart Standing Desk Technology is Improving Health and Wellness in the Office
Health and Wellness in the Office: How Smart Standing Desk Technology is Making a Difference
According to scientific research, prolonged sitting can have serious health consequences, including an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and cancer. In fact, sitting has been dubbed "the new smoking" due to its negative effects. This discovery has prompted office workers to re-evaluate their habits and lifestyle choices. As a result, height-adjustable sit-to-stand desks have become increasingly popular as a way to remain active throughout the day while still being able to work at a desk.
However, the standing desk is not a new invention and has been around for quite some time for good reason. Below, we will discuss some of the benefits of using a standing desk and other devices which you can find here.
The average person spends up to 8 hours sitting at a desk in their office, which can lead to back fatigue, poor circulation in the legs, and even mental fatigue. To alleviate these issues, doctors and scientists recommend taking frequent five-minute breaks every 60-90 minutes to stretch your legs and relieve tension in your back.
Advantages of Incorporating a Standing Desk into Your Routine
Incorporating a standing desk into your routine can enhance productivity
Numerous studies have demonstrated that utilizing a standing desk can have a positive impact on creativity, productivity, concentration, and overall work engagement. Interestingly, historical figures such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Napoléon Bonaparte, Thomas Jefferson, Charles Dickens, Winston Churchill, and Ernest Hemingway were all advocates of the standing desk, with Da Vinci utilizing one as far back as the late 1400s to early 1500s to sketch out many of his inventions.
Positive Impact on Mental Health
Standing while working can not only enhance mental clarity but also promote positive emotions. Depression and anxiety are becoming increasingly prevalent, and as awareness surrounding mental health continues to grow, it's important for businesses to prioritize the well-being of their employees. Utilizing a standing desk can result in increased productivity and focus, which can contribute to greater job satisfaction and reduced work-related anxiety. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that using a sit-to-stand desk can have a positive impact on psychological health, both in the workplace and beyond.
Staying active is also essential for maintaining good brain health. The brain releases more endorphins when the body is in motion, and standing can serve as a motivator to move more throughout the day. Additionally, recent research has revealed that prolonged sitting can decrease the thickness of the medial temporal lobe, which is responsible for memory and spatial cognition. A sedentary lifestyle has also been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Standing desks promote overall well-being
Research has revealed that excessive sedentary behavior can heighten the likelihood of various health issues, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Standing can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which are linked to numerous illnesses. Additionally, standing is beneficial for blood circulation, facilitating the transportation of oxygen to the brain. Standing has also been shown to improve metabolic function, which can lead to a more efficient calorie burn due to the increased heart rate. As a result, standing can be beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight.
Standing desks can alleviate back pain and promote good posture
One of the primary benefits of using a standing desk is the improvement in overall physical comfort. The ergonomic advantages of standing while working are widely recognized.
Sitting for extended periods of time can have detrimental effects on posture and may lead to back pain. Conversely, standing can help strengthen the core and enhance posture, ultimately resulting in a healthier back.
Modern models of standing desks often include electronic controls, eliminating the need for manual adjustment, which can also contribute to back problems. Employees experiencing back and joint pain can experience significant relief by using standing desks. Such desks can also alleviate neck and shoulder pain while aiding in the regulation of blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. Rotating between sitting and standing can further reduce spikes in blood sugar levels.
Science suggests that implementing sit-to-stand or standing desks may be an effective strategy to enhance the health, well-being, productivity, and attitude of your employees.
Even if your employees are not interested in standing desks, it remains crucial to prioritize ergonomic design when selecting office furniture. This can involve basic measures such as ensuring computer monitors are at an appropriate height with the use of monitor arms or providing comfortable chairs.
Attending to your body's needs and maintaining proper alignment can reduce physical fatigue, boost creativity, and enhance work efficiency. By implementing such practices, both employers and employees stand to benefit from improved productivity.
By investing in ergonomic office furniture, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their team members and show that they care about their health.