Chairs (and sitting in them) can be considered a symbol of Westernization. Unsurprisingly, in the West, chairs are commonplace, and an assumption for office spaces. In various cultures around the world, however, chairs aren't the default. Instead, people will often squat, kneel or sit. When you sit all day, or in a single position for an extended amount of time, you can develop health issues. These include back and hip pain, or signs of lumbar kyphosis — which causes the back to appear especially rounded. If done properly though, sitting on the floor can help improve your posture — and provide multiple other health benefits as well.
Incorporating "floor time" into your daily routine can be simple. Starting off with small doses of sitting cross-legged and gradually increasing the length of time is a good place to start. "Sitting on the floor helps to prevent slouching, as your lower back is naturally pulled slightly into a supported position when you are sitting with your legs crossed," Louisiana-based chiropractor Matthew Cavanaugh, D.C., told Health. "This helps to keep your core muscles engaged and prevents aches and pains that can come from sitting in an improper position."
The surface you sit on matters. Sitting on a rug, carpet, yoga mat, cushion, or yoga block can provide extra support. Leaning against a sturdy surface such as a wall can also help prevent slouching.
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