The start of the year is the perfect time to think about some lifestyle changes and ways that you can improve your health. Over winter, we tend to spend a lot more time indoors and sitting down, so at this time of year you should try to improve your mobility and circulation.
There are lots of ways to do this, even if you are staying indoors. Here are some of the best ways to boost your circulation and mobility:
Avoid sitting for long periods
One of the worst things to do in terms of your mobility is to sit in the same position for long periods of time as your joints will stiffen up. Try to remember to get up and move about every so often, at least every 30 mins. Walk around and do some light stretches to help your blood flow around your body.
Make sure you are sat in a way that encourages circulation
Certain sitting positions can limit your blood flow, for example, crossing your legs can prevent blood flowing properly around your lower legs and to your feet. Sitting upright with your legs stretched out is the best way to encourage circulation. Many health experts also recommend elevating your legs to help improve blood flow to the legs, which is why recliner chairs are a good choice.
Keep warm
Keeping yourself warm is also important for good circulation, so wearing extra warm clothing or using a blanket when you are sitting down will be very beneficial.
Don’t wear clothing that restricts circulation
Tight clothes can restrict your circulation, so if you are sitting down at home you should wear comfortable, loose clothing and make sure you do not have tightly laced shoes or clothing that feels tight.
Move about
As well as getting up and walking around at regular intervals, you should also stretch your legs out while you are sitting and do other gentle stretches or exercises to keep your body moving.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet
What you eat and drink is also very important for your mobility and circulation, so keeping a healthy diet with lots of fruit and vegetables will help. Drinking lots of water and avoiding processed foods and other foods that are high in fat or salt is better for your mobility.
Exercise
If you do not use your muscles regularly, then you can suffer muscle waste. This also happens naturally as you get older, so try to keep exercising to strengthen your muscles.
Walking regularly is one of the best ways to strengthen your muscles, as well as doing exercises like bicep curls with a light object to strengthen your arms.
There are loads of great home workout options available online- like this free workout from The Body Coach that can be done from the comfort of your armchair.
Choose good seating
Having a chair that encourages good circulation and supports the best posture is also essential. Swivel recliner chairs are ideal for offering you comfort and allowing blood to circulate around your body.
We have a huge selection of recliner chairs that can help to encourage circulation, along with these other top tips.
See our full range of extra comfortable, stunning chair designs to find the perfect furniture for your home.
