Writers often sit in front of a laptop or a book to hone their craft. Whether its reading, writing, or something between, the art requires a significant amount of sitting. However, sitting for lengthy periods can strain the nervous system and creative process.
Why not write or read while training the body? Is this possible?
The Problem with Chairs
When we look at the design of a chair, what it does to our bodies, whoever designed it was either a fool or a sadist. Chairs—and their cousins, throne toilets and car seats—put the body in an unnatural position.
Granted, the human body can sit fine in a chair…for brief amounts of time. Problems arise when we sit for long periods. The human body wasn’t designed to stagnate, but to move; to dance, sing, explore, and discover.
The Effects of Sitting
When we sit:
- muscles get weaker in the lower body
- metabolism slows, testosterone drops, and fat accumulates easier
- cardiovascular and cranial health deteriorates (think stroke, dementia, brain fog)
- the risk of disability skyrockets, and blood circulation grows sluggish
- the bowels constrict, leading to constipation, diverticulitis, colon cancer, and more
- childbirth is long and painful (what is considered normal in the West, but strange in third-world countries)
And that’s to name a few. Now, before we go swearing off the ritual of writing, art, sketching, reading, or whatever else we do; there is hope.
Solutions to the Chair
“You really don’t understand human bodies until you realize how important these postures are.”
—Rosie Spinks
There’s nothing wrong with sitting in a chair for small increments. But mixing in varied resting postures will stimulate nerves, ligaments, blood vessels, lymph—that will strengthen both our bodies and minds.
Below are some resting postures we can use.
Vajrasana | Rock Pose | Thunderbolt Pose
Vajrasana, also known as thunderbolt or rock, is a seated yoga pose that helps stretch the lower body. By kneeling and sitting on the feet, it shifts the weight away from the back and onto the knees and ankles. This pose promotes concentration and creativity and can be made easier by using a cushion.
Malasana | Garland Pose | Primal Squat
Malasana, also known as garland squat or resting squat, is a yoga pose that helps stretch the hips and lower body. It involves coming into a deep squat and allowing the pelvic floor to relax. Placing a blanket under the heels can make it easier to do, especially for those who are not accustomed to sitting in a squat position.
Many people in the world still sit, rest, play, and eat in this posture for hours. The benefits of this pose are numerous.
Headstand
Inversions, such as headstands, offer numerous benefits for the body and brain. They improve focus, balance hormones, boost creativity, and more. Starting with support from a wall is recommended, progressing towards unassisted headstands. Best done on an empty stomach.
Deadhang
Hanging from a bar, similar to a pullup position, is a beneficial exercise that decompresses the spine and can be done for just a few seconds to enjoy its benefits.
Spinning
As kids, we used to spin around with a partner on a merry-go-round. Spinning in a clockwise direction can promote vitality and help us feel more alive. Children instinctively know this. It’s a great way to shake off any stagnant feelings after sitting for a long time. Start slowly with about 8 spins per day and gradually increase to 33 spins.
Inclined Bed Rest
Sleeping at an incline can have numerous benefits for the body, including improved sleep, reduced organ pressure, and better lymphatic system drainage. It also stretches the spine, compressed by excessive sitting. To enjoy these perks, elevate the pillow-side of the bed a few inches.
Rebounding
Jumping on a trampoline or rebounder is not only fun, but it’s also excellent for the lymphatic system. It improves spatial awareness, blood flow to the brain, and overall circulation, leading to increased creativity, energy, and motivation.
A Final Word on Resting
Our bodies need movement to function properly. Sitting for long periods of time isn’t natural for us. We should strive to stretch, change positions, and keep our muscles and creative ability healthy. By incorporating different resting postures and staying active, we can maintain our health and wellbeing.
Let’s remember to take breaks, walk, stretch, and engage in activities that inspire us. It’s important to nurture our bodies and minds together for a fulfilling and balanced life.
Ethereal Seals 