Who doesn’t do it: cross their legs and lean back in the armchair in either a formal or comfortable conversation atmosphere? What feels more comfortable sitting than that! But is it really healthy?
Not at all! If you put one leg over the other, the blood vessels will be compressed and the blood flow will be reduced. This can lead to varicose veins or promote thrombosis. Since the nerves are also compressed, after a while the wellknown phenomenon of “legs falling asleep” occurs.
However, the greatest risk is posed by crossed legs that affect the pelvis and spine. This position of the legs puts the pelvis in an abnormal position. The pelvis is crooked and the spine is curved.
It is best to keep both legs side by side in a balanced position and move them from time to time. Sometimes, the feet like to rest on a footrest or a stool. This supports the blood circulation in the legs. If you would like to cross your legs occasionally, never do this for more than 30 minutes. After that, stand up and take a few steps.
If you catch yourself with your legs crossed, make sure to change your legs: sometimes the right leg over the left, then again, the left leg over the right.
Change your legs frequently and for a short period of time. This way, any possible postural damage to the pelvis and spine is kept more or less balanced and in constant alignment.
If the topic of ergonomics in the office or home office appeals to you and you are interested in it more deeply, I can recommend my book “Wellness in the Office”. Combined with humorous drawings, I pass on 50+1 tips to make your office a little paradise.
