The Groundbreaking Tip for a Healthier 2024

We live in a world dominated by desk jobs, driving in cars, and sedentary lifestyles. The radical method to reclaim your health in 2024 starts on the ground! Prioritizing mindful movement and posture cannot be overstated when so many people are afflicted by back pain and other soft tissue injuries. Enter a holistic method that not only transforms the way we move but also redefines the way we sit. In this health tip, we'll explore the various positions and benefits of ditching the recliner and sitting on the ground.

"The opposite of human movement is human rest; movement and rest are flip sides of the same coin. One without the other is nonsensical." 

-Phillip Beach in Muscles and Meridians 

Favorite Positions

Seiza

Samurai 

Cross-Legged 

Cowboy 

Long-Sitting

Bolt 

Squat 

How to Implement

Return to the ground often throughout your day.

Build up your tolerance for positions slowly. You can begin with 20–30 second increments and flow through the various stances. You can also regress the moves by providing hand support. Don’t stay in a position too long if you're feeling pain; the next position is the best position!

Benefits

1. Improved Mobility and Flexibility

An emphasis on mindful groundwork enhances joint mobility and flexibility. By incorporating a variety of movements close to the ground, individuals can break free from the restrictions of linear exercises, promoting a fuller range of motion and increased agility. Regular practice of ground sitting positions increases flexibility in the hips, knees, and ankles. This improved flexibility can translate into a better range of motion in daily activities. 

2. Enhanced Posture

Traditional office chairs can wreak havoc on posture, leading to back pain and stiffness. Going back in time before our modern amenities, people were walking and sitting in deep squats or grounding positions all the time. We were created to thrive with a less-is-more approach. These moves create a proper alignment from the feet to the head, reduce the strain on the lower back, and promote a more upright and comfortable posture. Ground sitting helps maintain and promote natural hip alignment. This is particularly beneficial for those who spend extended periods sitting in chairs, which can contribute to hip misalignment issues.

3. Circulation and Blood Flow

Sitting on the ground encourages better circulation, especially in the lower extremities. This can be beneficial for overall cardiovascular health and may reduce the risk of certain conditions related to poor circulation. You don't need a foam roller or lacrosse ball to do a myofascial release. The pressure you put on your feet, glutes, and legs in these various positions can break up loads of tension and do wonders for your suppleness.  

4. Improved Digestion

The deep squat position, in particular, is associated with aiding digestion. It can help relax the muscles around the pelvis and promote healthy bowel movements.

5. Core Strength and Stability

Engaging in ground-based exercises activates the core muscles, fostering strength and stability. The dynamic nature of these movements challenges the body to stabilize itself in various positions, leading to a more robust and resilient core.

6. Mind-Body Connection

Cultivating a strong mind-body connection is the building block of self-awareness of breakdowns in the foundation and areas you want to address. Recognizing your body's capabilities and limitations will foster a deeper understanding of your current state and how to move and adjust throughout your day.

7. Stress Reduction

The act of connecting with the ground and adopting alternative sitting positions has inherent stress-reducing benefits. Be present in the moment, fostering a sense of calm and mindfulness that can counteract the stressors of the day.

Whether for flexibility, posture improvement, or overall well-being, these positions provide a natural and accessible way to enhance the body's functionality.