Benefits of Chair-Based Exercise from an Occupational Therapy Perspective – Part 2
In this two-part blog we looked at the physical benefits last month and the mental and emotional benefits this month.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Improved Wellbeing
Exercise releases endorphins, these are natural “feel good” chemicals that support wellbeing. Chair exercises can help to reduce stress, improve your mood, and give you a clearer mind. They are a great way to lift your spirits naturally. Deep breathing exercises combined with chair exercises can also help you feel more relaxed and focused.
Supporting Cognition
Physical activity can help keep your brain function sharp. Chair exercises that require you to follow patterns or sequences can stimulate your brain and improve your memory. Staying mentally active is just as important as staying physically active. Activities like following a seated exercise video or playing simple rhythm games can challenge your mind and support with maintaining cognition.
Functional Benefits
Making Daily Tasks Easier
Chair exercises can support you to do daily tasks like getting dressed, cooking, and cleaning. Stronger muscles and better flexibility make these activities less challenging and help you to stay independent. Practicing movements that mimic daily activities, such as reaching for items on a shelf or lifting lightweight objects, can be particularly useful.
Maintaining Independence
Improving your physical abilities through chair exercises can help you stay independent. Occupational therapists focus on helping you live a fulfilling and self-sufficient life. Being able to take care of yourself is vital for your quality of life. Chair exercises can empower you to continue living on your own terms.
Customisation and Flexibility
Chair exercises can be adapted to your needs. Occupational therapists can design a program that fits your abilities, ensuring the exercises are safe and effective. You can start slow and gradually increase the intensity as you get stronger. For instance, you can begin with simple arm and leg movements and progress to using light weights or resistance bands.
Conclusion
Chair-based exercises offer many benefits. They improve physical health, mental well-being, and help you to stay independent. Occupational therapists use these exercises to help you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. Chair exercises are not only effective but also inclusive, allowing everyone to enjoy the benefits of staying active.
This month we will look at some simple upper body exercises – Perform these slowly and in a controlled manner.
- Gently place your chin towards your chest, hold for 10 seconds, then look towards the ceiling, putting your head back, hold for 10 seconds. Then repeat.
- Turn your head to the left, hold for 10 seconds, then turn your head right and hold for 10 seconds. Then repeat.
- Roll your head in circles, make sure to do this slowly and in a controlled manner. Go one way for 30 seconds, then change direction.
- Arms or legs held out in front, point hands or feet up to the ceiling, hold for 5 seconds then point down toes pointed, hands pointed to the floor as far as they can go, hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 4 more times. You could do hands first and then feet, or as you improve, do hands and feet at the same time.
- Arms or legs held out in front, make circles with your hands or feet. 30 seconds one way, and then the other.
- If you can, touch your fingers to your shoulder, make large circles with your elbow. Draw 10 circles forwards and then 10 backwards.
Contact us on 01283 688002 or email us, and we’ll be only too happy to help!