Although standing at work is traditionally considered to be more challenging for our body, there is growing evidence that seated work is not relaxing for our organs either. Back pain is probably the most common side effect we experience when sitting all day, but there may be even more hidden risks to a sedentary lifestyle. Few people know that the healthy functioning of the internal organs and the circulatory system also depends on how and how much we sit. Therefore it is important to know what we can do to make up for the unhealthy side effects.

When we are sitting all day the blood flow slows down in our body and as a result, fat can settle easier. This may lead to high blood pressure and increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Sitting can also slow down metabolism which can contribute to obesity and digestive system diseases, and may even increase the risk of diabetes. This happens because when we are sitting the muscles are passive and take up glucose arriving at the cells more slowly. In response, the pancreas produces more insulin to help glucose absorption, but this may result in the development of insulin resistance.

What should we do then to avoid these health risks? The importance of exercise cannot be stressed enough. Sport can be the answer to most harmful side effects: it improves circulation, boosts metabolism and makes muscles work. In addition to regular exercise, massage can also help to restore circulation and metabolism. And of course, we cannot neglect the importance of a fiber-rich diet for the proper intake of vitamins and minerals.
Things you can do…

If you have back pain or other musculoskeletal discomforts, it is important to consult a physician first and to ask for the help of a physiotherapist who can assist you in recovery with personalized and problem-specific exercises. As an adjunctive therapy or as prevention thermal water can be the perfect choice: depending on its mineral content and chemical composition each type is good for the treatment of different symptoms.
Experts say that sulfur-containing water, such as the thermal water of Hévíz, Kisújszállás and Harkány is particularly recommended for cartilage disorders. In most spas special treatment packages are offered for spinal problems, including massage therapies, back exercises and weight baths.

Massage is one of the most obvious and fastest ways to stimulate blood circulation. Relaxing on the massage bed lets you forget about your problems and at the same time makes you healthier. If you want to revive from head to toe, you should start with a foot massage! Your sole can be read as a map of your organs, and you can receive targeted treatment for each area by massaging certain points of it. But it can also energize the whole body as it improves circulation, enhances metabolism and, last but not least, relieves stress. However, if you prefer a classic, full-body muscle relaxation and stress relief, you may want to try the deep tissue massage and the Swedish massage. And again we should not forget about the healing power of thermal water: hot water can stimulate blood flow by expanding blood vessels. The signs and symptoms of poor circulation can be alleviated by hydrogen-carbonate thermal waters, but similar effects can be achieved with carbonated baths. For the treatment of circulatory problems the karst water of the cave bath of Miskolctapolca as well as the thermal water of Bükfürdő and Kehidakustány are especially recommended.

Fighting against the extra kilos is a daily struggle for many, but it is suggested to take a break from this uphill battle every now and then. A longer or shorter wellness retreat or a spa excursion along with some exercise and healthy eating can also help to reduce weight gain by improving your metabolism. Thermal water can be used not only externally but also internally for weight loss if your diet is supplemented with a drinking cure. In addition to reducing appetite, drinking thermal water regularly also takes care of the recommended mineral intake. Among others, the thermal water of Harkány, Igal, Bükfürdő and Hévíz is available in drink from.