We cross our legs quite a bit, don't we?  Even growing up and at school, we were taught to sit cross-legged.  (Of course, back in the day, we called it "Indian style," but we are much more politically correct these days!)  And these days, we cross our legs in our office chairs or at home on the couch.  So what's the big deal about crossing your legs, anyway?

As it happens, crossing your legs impedes blood circulation and puts uneven pressure on your back - specifically on your sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your spine).  This careless habit can even cause varicose veins and do a number on your hip and spine alignment.  You may notice mild back pain that you can't quite figure out what caused it - sitting with your legs crossed may be the culprit!

To sit in such a way as to cause the least amount of body strain, keep your feet on the floor with your legs uncrossed.  Ideally, your hips will be elevated slightly higher than your knees - and don't forget correct posture!  Slouching won't do your body any good at all.

Easier said than done, though.  For most people, crossing their legs is an unconscious manuever.  Did you know that, in a Yahoo Answers survey, 72% of women stated they crossed their legs simply out of habit?  Yup, this is going to be a tough nut to crack, and like all bad habits, it will take time to reverse.  The first step is to recognize the behavior, of course, so now that you are aware, you're off to a great start!

What suggestions do you have to break the habit?