Have you heard of the l-shaped standing desk? This unique piece of furniture allows you to stand while working, thereby improving your circulation and reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. If you’re still sitting in your office chair as you read this, it’s time to switch to a standing desk! Here are seven top ways standing desks can improve your life.
1) Increased Productivity
Standing desks can help increase productivity in two ways. First, standing desks force you to move more and use your muscles which will help improve circulation and work off extra calories.
Second, standing up helps your brain think more clearly because it has to focus on balance. This makes it easier to concentrate on difficult tasks like programming or writing essays.
2) Improved Posture
A standing desk can help your posture by giving you something to push against. Some studies have shown that people who work at a standing desk for an extended period report less back pain than those who sit all day.
A recent study even found that people with chronic back pain experienced relief while working at a standing desk.
3) Decreased Back Pain
A standing desk can help you avoid back pain by decreasing the amount of time you spend sitting. When you sit for extended periods, your muscles are contracted and it becomes harder for them to relax.
This can lead to muscle stiffness, which in turn can cause discomfort and pain. Decreasing the amount of time you spend sitting will decrease your risk of developing these issues.
4) Increased Energy Levels
Standing up for an extended period can give you an energy boost and help you feel more productive.
A study from the University of Sydney found that people who stood at work had increased levels of energy and alertness, in comparison to those who sat down. Plus, it’s been shown that standing instead of sitting decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
5) Improved Circulation
Sitting for long periods can cause your circulation to slow down, and according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it may contribute to chronic diseases like diabetes. Switching up your seating position regularly by standing at your desk can improve blood flow.
Not only will it benefit you in the short-term, but in the long-term as well. The more times you stand during the day, the better your circulation will be overall.
Improved Mental Focus: The same reason that sitting for long periods can affect your mental focus is why being on your feet all day has the opposite effect.
6) Reduced Risk of Obesity
Standing desks can help you burn up to 200 more calories per day, which is the equivalent of 20 pounds over a year. Reduced risk of obesity is one of the many benefits that come from using a standing desk. You’ll also find that it’s easier on your joints and back.
Additionally, if you work in an office setting where there are ergonomic concerns, such as those about tight spaces and monitor height, a stand-up desk can be an ideal solution.
7) Improved mental health
A study published by the Journal of Ergonomics found that standing for at least two hours can improve mental health because it increases blood flow to your brain. The study showed that sitting for prolonged periods can cause tiredness, depression, and anxiety.
A standing desk is one way to combat these negative side effects of sitting all day by getting you off your feet and increasing circulation to your brain.
Conclusion
You’ve probably seen standing desks around the office, and you might have even sat down at one at your doctor’s or dentist’s office while waiting to be called in. These desks are designed to keep you healthier while you work, but can standing desks make that much of an impact? It turns out they can, which is why more and more people are investing in this type of desk, whether it’s because they want to be healthier, more productive, or a combination of both! Read on to learn how standing desks can improve your life!
