Longtime sitting can be detrimental to our health, but what if we told you that getting back on the ground could help you live longer? According to Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones, incorporating floor-sitting habits into your daily life can significantly boost lower-body strength and longevity.
Buettner points out that falls are a leading cause of death among older adults, with a 30-40% chance of dying within a year after falling. To prevent this, it’s essential to maintain muscle mass as we age. Research has shown that low muscle mass is associated with cognitive decline, insulin resistance, and high inflammatory markers.
To strengthen your muscles and joint health, frequent everyday habits are key. Sitting on the floor can help you get up and down 30 times a day, training your balance and lower-body strength. This simple practice has been observed in Okinawan communities, where falls are far fewer due to their emphasis on physical activity.
It’s not about removing all furniture from your home but rather incorporating movements into daily life that develop lower-body strength. Even without formal exercise sessions, you can still work those necessary muscle groups by being more active.
While sitting on the floor won’t be a silver bullet for longevity, it is one of those counterintuitive practices that contributes to the Blue Zones’ remarkable health benefits. By adding this habit to your daily routine, you’ll be taking a step towards living a longer, healthier life.
Source: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/why-you-should-sit-on-floor-for-better-longevity-support-your-mobility