Sitting In Traffic: 3 Surprising Ways It Affects You

Did you know that the average commuter spends roughly 40 hours a year sitting in traffic? You probably never gave it much thought because it’s part of your normal routine and hard to avoid, but you’d be surprised how sitting in traffic affects you. Not only does it take up a full work week but it also has negative mental and physical side effects.

Aches and Pains

While sitting in traffic we tend to slouch into our seats, compromising our posture. Bad posture can result to aches and pains in our back, neck, knees, elbows, and hips! If you’re sitting at work during the day and sitting in traffic jams on your way home you could be spending 9 to 10 hours a day sitting down. Sitting too long has harmful side effects on your body, so try to decrease your sitting time at work if you can’t avoid the long commutes.

Sitting In Traffic Is Stressful

Is there anything more stressful than traffic? Especially when you have somewhere you need to be, like an important meeting at work. Stress can have many negative side effects on you such depression and some diseases. It’s also a major contributor to road rage, which is a leading cause of car accidents.

Your Mental Health Takes a Toll

The stress that usually accompanies traffic jams is harmful to your mental health. Studies have shown that people who commute 10 miles or more each day have a higher risk of depression. It can also cause anxiety and increase your feelings of social isolation. Try to reduce the stress by taking your attention off the fact that you’re stuck in traffic. Listen to music, a podcast, or play a road game if you’re with a friend. It’s important to stay calm and positive in traffic jams and to not let it get the best of you.

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