When eating, the Japanese typically do not sit on chairs but choose to eat on the floor in a kneeling position. They maintain this posture whether dining at home or in high-end five-star restaurants. In fact, this position not only saves space but also has remarkable benefits for human health.
This posture helps strengthen your abdominal muscles and prevent bloating.
1. Improves Digestion
The Japanese believe that sitting cross-legged on the floor and leisurely eating is akin to a yoga exercise. In this position, you lean forward to reach your food, then return to the original position to chew and grind the food. This posture helps strengthen your abdominal muscles and prevent bloating.
2. Aids Weight Loss
The vagus nerve functions better when you eat on the floor. Specifically, when your digestive system releases a hormone called leptin, it sends a signal to the vagus nerve that you are full. Consequently, the function of this nerve prevents you from overeating, helping to control weight gain.
3. Promotes Greater Flexibility
Sitting on a chair for long periods can lead to back pain and stiff spinal discs, whereas sitting on the floor allows your knees and hips to stretch. In this position, you sit higher, and your body does not slump, making your shoulders and back stronger.
4. Extends Longevity
From the Japanese perspective, sitting on the floor while eating and standing up several times throughout the day is the simplest way to promote longevity.
5. Keeps Joints Smooth
Sitting on the floor allows you to stretch your hips and ankles, making your joints more flexible. In contrast, prolonged sitting on a chair can lead to tight hips.
6. Improves Posture
If you sit in an uncomfortable chair, your body will bear pressure from the chair. However, when sitting on the floor, you have the freedom to control your body. Nevertheless, avoid slouching too much, which can lead to back pain; it is best to try to keep your back straight as much as possible.
