When working on the computer, we tend to forget how long we’ve been sitting down for. Now that many more people are working from home and most work is digital, this mistake is becoming more common and harmful among not just teens and young adults, but older adults and elders. Sitting increases the risk of heart diseases, cancer, type 2 diabetes,  and neck and back pain. 

   We also forget that we need to exercise. The average adult and elderly adult needs 150 minutes of physical activity each week, and teens need 60 minutes or more each day. Exercise decreases depression and anxiety, and the risk of dementia. It is suggested by medical professionals that while working on the computer, we set a 15-30 minute timer, and when the timer goes off, we spend 30 seconds or more moving around and stretching.

   Exercise produces more brain cells, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and endorphins, which prevents depression. And as mentioned, exercise reduces our risk of dementia. A study showed physical inactivity increases our chances of developing dementia by 82%!

   In conclusion, get some more exercise during school hours, whether that be walking, running, stretching, dancing, etc.