Workforce Insights

Office Chair Yoga: Yes It’s Real, And It Works

By Kathy Iandoli | April 03, 2017

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For many, yoga can be intimidating, but when it comes to chair yoga the logic is quite simple. Whether you’re a yoga expert or a novice, you don’t always have the time or the capability to downward dog in the middle of a floor. That’s where chair yoga comes into play. In short, these are yoga poses designed for a chair. That can be an office chair, a kitchen table chair, or any chair that permits it. For your employees, being seated all day can have some long-term effects on their backs and muscles. Here are some poses to prevent the everyday aches and pains from creeping in. Not only will their bodies feel better, but they will reduce stress and have an altogether better work experience. Everyone can use that. Please note: Since most office chairs have wheels, these are poses that won’t have your staff rolling away. Rather, these are the easiest for office chair yoga.

  1. The Office Eagle
    While seated in your chair, cross one leg over the other, tucking your crossed foot behind the stationary leg’s calf. Lift your arms, bend at the elbows and cross your forearms, with your hands touching. Hold for a few seconds and breathe deeply. Reverse legs and arms and do it again. This helps to stretch your upper and lower body, as well as your wrists.
  1. Raise The Roof
    Sit in your chair face forward, down and feet firmly on the floor. Lift your arms as if you’re trying to touch the ceiling. Keep them raised while taking a few long, deep breaths. Upon your final exhalation, gently lower your arms. This helps your core and promotes deeper breathing and better posture.
  1. Twist, But Don’t Shout
    Sit sideways on your office chair, with your legs together and feet firmly on the floor. Twist your body in the direction of your leg position on the chair (right or left), while holding onto the back of the chair and breathing deeply. Repeat with the other side of the chair. This will not only help your hips, but promote deeper breathing and assist with kinks in the back.

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