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Is Sitting as Bad as Smoking? THE HEALTH HAZARDS OF DESK-DRIVEN DAYS
Remember when you’d see groups of people huddled outside with cigarettes in their mouths? How about smoking sections in fast food restaurants and on airplanes? Fortunately, smoking has largely fallen out of fashion in recent years, leaving millions of Americans with clearer lungs and better-smelling clothing. However, even the most anti-tobacco folks among us may not realize they’re negatively impacting their health in ways just as bad as reaching for a pack of Marlboro Reds. Chairs are beating up our bodies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 18.5 million American employees work behind a desk all day. As reported by the Mayo Clinic, an extensive research project into the effects of sitting for
more than eight hours determined this sedentary lifestyle posed health risks similar to smoking and obesity. Most significantly, sitting for long periods defies human biology, as our cardiovascular system is designed to work most efficiently when we stand upright. In addition to damaging our hearts, sitting all day harms other critical body parts, including our legs, glutes, hips, and backs. Our desk-driven habits also mistreat our minds, as studies suggest a link between prolonged sitting and increased anxiety and depression. Don’t let your workday defeat you. If you’re one of the millions whose job doesn’t allow you to work physically in fresh air, there are ways to bring your body into better balance. The first step is to devote
between 60 and 75 minutes to at least moderate exercise daily. Instead of sitting on a chair in front of your computer screen, incorporate a standing desk or another way to get you on your feet at least some of the time. If you have a video conference coming up, consider having it while going for a short walk. If speaking over the phone takes up a fair amount of your workday, try to have these conversations standing instead of sitting. Every moment spent out of your chair is a step forward in sustaining your health and peace of mind.
Even with our daily demands, taking control of our bodies and making a few minor changes will go a long way in preventing us from unintentionally turning our workspaces into makeshift smoking lounges. Take a Break
Silky Chocolate Mousse
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
INGREDIENTS
•
1 1/2 cup heavy cream, divided
• 1 cup milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips (6 oz) • Optional Garnish: Grated chocolate, crushed nuts, toffee, or brittle
DIRECTIONS 1. In a microwave-safe bowl, put 1/2 cup of cream in the microwave for 1 minute. 2. Stir in chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. 3. In a separate bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of cream with a hand mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. 4. Set aside 1/2 cup of whipped cream for topping, and continue whipping the remaining cream until stiff peaks form. 5. Gently fold whipped cream into the cooled chocolate mixture in batches, mixing until combined but still light and fluffy. 6. Spoon into four ramekins or glasses, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. 7. Top with reserved whipped cream and garnish if desired.
BLOOM CINCO DERBY EMERALD
GEMINI GRADUATION LILY MEMORIAL
MOTHER ROSES TEACHER VETERANS
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