Introducing Desk Yoga: The Age-Old Practice Meets Modern-Day Office Life
Origins: Yoga has been practiced for over 5,000 years, whereas desks are a more recent invention, likely dating back to medieval times.
Description: Unlike traditional yoga, desk yoga is more convenient and stretch-based, allowing individuals to flex and unwind while sitting or standing at their desk.
Feeling Stressed at Work? Rather than grabbing a coffee, taking a vape break, or indulging in some therapeutic gossip, consider incorporating a “Y-break” into your day. Inspired by India’s civil service, this protocol encourages de-stressing, refreshing, and refocusing through short desk yoga routines.
Not Another Exercise Fad: Desk yoga is not about showing off in the office. The Y-break protocol recommends four six-minute routines that are sensible, low-key, and mainly composed of sitting or standing stretches, twists, and breathing exercises. The exercises are not overly complex, so you won’t find any one-legged planks here, although some breathing exercises do require a steady humming sound.
Secret Workouts: If you prefer exercise without drawing attention, discreet activities such as ankle circles and leg raises or even walking around while carrying some papers under your arms can help.
Raising Your Heart Rate: For those who want cardio exercise, there are options such as under-the-desk bikes, treadmills, and elliptical trainers. But for those non-gym enthusiasts, taking a walk or opting for a quick typing response over a lengthy email chain can also elevate the heart rate.
Employer Support: Some businesses already take the initiative to encourage employee health and fitness. A few US-based companies offer on-site workouts, or even pay employees to attend exercise classes.
The Bottom Line: Some might argue that employer-endorsed health and fitness initiatives are merely ways to boost productivity. However, if practiced with mindfulness and authenticity, desk yoga can create a more positive and productive workplace environment.
Do Say: “Would you like to join us for a 6am energizing flow with the CEO in conference room 3?”
Don’t Say: “We can’t accommodate your flexible working request, but why not try two minutes of nourishing cat-cow stretches?”
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
