Sometimes, all we want is to have a chill day and to not have to move a single muscle. But leading a sedentary lifestyle can lead to serious problems like heart disease and diabetes. As a matter of fact, sitting or lying down too much is more risky than meets the eye. That’s why we invite you to take a walk, even between your living room and your kitchen, and to read about how being inactive can worsen existing skin conditions and cause varicose veins.

The Bright Side team investigated many pieces of research to find the little-known risks of an inactive lifestyle in order to encourage you to keep your body moving and thriving.

1. It increases the chances of hormonal acne

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The number one effect of inactivity is weight gain. And one of the effects of weight gain is that is causes specific skin issues. At the start, obesity affects the skin barriers by making the skin significantly more dry. Furthermore, it makes the person sweat more, leading to clogged pores and inflamed acne.

2. It can weaken the bones

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Muscles and bones are living tissues that become stronger when they are exercised. The bones of those who exercise regularly tend to be stronger and denser than those who don’t. Thus, when someone sits around inactively for a prolonged period of time, they risk weakening their bones and jeopardizing their density.

3. It can worsen existing skin conditions

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If you have tried every acne treatment you can think of, and the problem is still there, it’s time to look into the root of the problem. Acne Mechanica is caused by friction and pressure on the skin. This breakout occurs when the skin is repeatedly exposed to friction or pressure, like sitting in certain positions for too long. It’s not unlikely for acne to happen from an inactive lifestyle in which one spends most of the day seated.

4. It can causes cellulite

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Today, most office workers spend most of their time seated, typing away at their computers. This inactive lifestyle can cause water retention. Some scientists believe that prolonged periods of sitting reduce blood flow and result in the changes that cause cellulite.

5. It can cause varicose veins

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As we walk, the calf muscles contract, flex, and apply pressure to the main blood vessels in the lower leg. It’s like each step has a pump effect, which helps with the circulation from the veins to the heart. Hence, sitting for a prolonged period leads to poor circulation, which manifests as varicose veins.

How would you define “living an active lifestyle”? What are some simple changes you can make to combat a sedentary lifestyle?