Do you feel comfortable sitting on the floor in the "Turkish position"? Does this posture make you feel relaxed and natural? But have you ever wondered how it affects your body in the long term?
Sitting in the “Turkish position” often we associate with calmness, meditation or children's play. This way of sitting seems completely natural to many - even more homely than sitting in a chair.
However, when you persist in this position for a long time, the question arises whether the body really supports such a posture or whether it is an apparent comfort that we later pay for with pain or reduced mobility.
Sitting in the “Turkish Position” – A Seemingly Innocent Position
When we sit in the “Turkish position”, we often don’t realize that the body may already be compensating. incorrect loadThe hips are not in a completely symmetrical position, the spine often curves, and the muscles tense differently. Especially when we stay in this position for a long time, discomfort begins to appear - from tingling in the legs, tension in the lower back to a feeling of stiffness when standing up.
This posture becomes particularly problematic when used while working from home, where we exercise too littleThe body is designed for movement, not for prolonged rest in an uneven position.
The spine is not adapted to such loads.
Although some people find sitting on the floor more natural, the spine often loses its natural shape. The lumbar region becomes overloaded, the shoulders hunch forward, and the head unconsciously sinks toward the chest. This position puts strain on the muscles, ligaments, and intervertebral discs, which can eventually lead to chronic low back pain.
What about the hips and knees?
When the legs are crossed for a long time, the knee joints are in an unnatural, often tense position. If the pelvis is too low or the muscles on the inner thighs are tight, it is difficult for the hips to relax. This causes additional tension in joints and musclesOver the years, there may be reduced mobility, a feeling of tightness in the hips, or even inflammation due to overload.
How to sit then?
If we choose to sit on the floor, it is important to support the pelvis with a cushion or low chairThis will ensure that your knees fall slightly lower than your hips, which will reduce pressure on your joints. It is also important to often we change the position of the legs, stretch or stand up frequently. This prevents blood pooling, numbness, and reduces the risk of injury.
For work, reading or longer activities, it is recommended to use ergonomically adjusted chair, which supports the lumbar region of the back, and the feet should be firmly on the ground. Sitting is not just a passive action - the way we sit has a long-term impact on the quality of our movement and well-being.
Let's listen to our bodies.
If after sitting for a long time you experience symptoms such as numbness in your legs, lower back pain, or a feeling of tension in your hips, your body is clearly telling you that it needs a change.
Sitting with your legs crossed is not inherently harmful
It can be enjoyable, even therapeutic, if practiced in moderation and with body awareness. The key to health is not avoiding certain positions, but rather diversity, movement and the ability to listen to our body. If we can recognize its needs, we will also find the right balance when sitting.
