Desk Detox: Simple 'Deskercises' to Combat Sitting Disease at Work

Lisette Marie

11. The Cubicle Quickstep (Seated Cardio)

Businessman looking at laptop while sitting at office desk, portrait. Photo Credit: Envato @bnenin

Get your heart rate up slightly without leaving your seat. Sit tall. Begin marching in place, lifting your knees alternately towards your chest. Keep your core engaged. Start slowly and gradually increase the pace to a comfortable level. Aim for 1-2 minutes continuously. Alternatively, perform rapid toe taps: keeping heels on the floor, quickly tap your toes up and down. It’s a discreet way to inject some light cardio, boost circulation, improve alertness, and break up long sedentary stretches.

12. The Zen Zone Breath (Mindful Breathing)

Professional woman deep in thought at her office desk. Photo Credit: Envato @Image-Source

Combat work stress instantly. Sit comfortably, feet flat, hands resting on your lap or desk. Close your eyes or soften your gaze. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, feeling your abdomen expand (not just your chest). Pause briefly. Exhale even more slowly and completely through your mouth or nose, feeling your abdomen contract. Focus solely on the sensation of your breath entering and leaving. Continue for 1-3 minutes. This calms the nervous system, reduces stress, and enhances focus amidst chaos.

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11. The Cubicle Quickstep (Seated Cardio)

12. The Zen Zone Breath (Mindful Breathing)

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