Binge watching your favourite TV shows is easier than ever thanks to streaming services like Netflix.  No more tuning in each week to find out what happens next… No need to invest money and space in a DVD box set.  Turn on your TV or computer and you can watch an entire season’s worth of episodes in a day or over a weekend.

What’s all that TV watching doing to your back?

Many people watch TV in positions that aren’t good for their spine.  Some folks slouch, while others lie down or lounge in ways that strain their shoulders, back, or hips.  They hold these positions for episode after episode.

TV watching in moderation isn’t so bad.  It’s important to take time to relax and unwind.

Here are four ways to protect your spine while watching TV.

Take breaks.  During the opening and closing credits, get up off the couch and walk around.  Stretch.  If you’re watching live TV, commercial breaks are another good time to do this.  Pause your video game or movie and take 5.

Watch your posture.  At first it might seem strange to sit up straight, but with practice, good posture will become a habit and feel “normal.”  Avoid tilting your head.  Relax your shoulders and back.

Reduce sitting time.  Think of other things you can do while watching your favourite shows:  fold laundry, do some gentle exercise, sweep or dust, ride an exercise bike…  By doubling up workouts or chores with TV time, you’re sitting down less often and making maximum use of your time.  That being said, it is also important to take time to rest and recharge, so don’t feel that you always have to multitask.

Visit your chiropractor regularly.  If you’re already experiencing the side effects of prolonged sitting and/or poor posture – pain, headaches, stiffness, aches and discomfort – it’s definitely time to see your chiropractor.  Contact Sheppard Chiropractic Centre at (506) 635-8182 or (506) 847-7172 to schedule your appointment.

Finally, while binge-watching TV might be a modern indulgence, it shouldn’t be something you do on a daily basis.  If you’re missing out on making memories of things other than the latest shows, or if you sit at work all day and then sit on the couch all evening,  it’s time to turn off the TV and expand your hobbies.

You should also be mindful of how much time your children spend in front of screens:  TV, computers, tablets, video games and smart phones.

Devote time every day to be active and exercise.  Connect with family, friends, and co-workers.  Take a class, enjoy a pastime or try something new that you’ve always been curious about.  TV is best enjoyed in moderation.