When it comes to personal hygiene and everyday routines, we often take aspects for granted, including the use of the toilet. While it may seem like a mundane task, the truth is that how we use the toilet can have a significant impact on our overall well-being. This article will delve into Two Good Habits While Using the Toilet that can make a difference when using the toilet efficiently and hygienically.
Habit 1: Proper Posture
Maintaining the correct posture is one of the most crucial but often overlooked aspects of using the toilet. The traditional sitting position on a standard toilet may not be optimal for elimination. Here’s why:
The Squatting Advantage
In recent years, studies have shown that squatting is a more natural and healthier posture for bowel movements. When you squat, the angle of your rectum straightens out, allowing for a smoother flow of waste through the colon. This natural alignment helps prevent issues like constipation and hemorrhoids.
The traditional sitting position on a toilet, with the hips at a 90-degree angle, can cause a kink in the rectum, making it harder to pass stool. In contrast, squatting relaxes the puborectalis muscle, which allows for easier bowel movements.
To incorporate this habit into your daily routine, consider using a squatting stool or platform designed to elevate your feet while sitting on the toilet. This will mimic the squatting posture and help optimize your bathroom experience.
Habit 2: Proper Hygiene
Maintaining proper hygiene while using the toilet is essential for your well-being and preventing the spread of germs and bacteria. Here are some key hygiene habits to follow:
1. Hand Washing
Before and after using the toilet, washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is crucial. This simple act can help prevent the transmission of harmful bacteria and viruses. Use warm water and soap, scrubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds, including between your fingers and under your nails.
2. Toilet Seat Hygiene
Toilet seats can be breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. Using toilet seat covers or disinfectant wipes to clean the seat before sitting down is advisable. If neither option is available, hover slightly above the seat to minimize contact.
3. Flushing Etiquette
When flushing the toilet, always close the lid before doing so. Flushing without closing the lid can result in a phenomenon known as the “toilet plume,” where tiny water droplets containing bacteria and viruses become airborne. Closing the lid helps contain these particles and prevents them from settling on nearby surfaces.
4. Proper Disposal
Dispose of sanitary products, such as tissue and wipes, in the designated receptacle rather than flushing them down the toilet. These items can clog pipes and lead to plumbing issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, two good habits to adopt while using the toilet are maintaining proper posture and following stringent hygiene practices. These habits may seem simple, but they can significantly impact your overall well-being and contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can promote better digestion, reduce the risk of health issues, and contribute to a more sanitary bathroom experience. Remember, it’s the small habits that often make the most significant difference in our lives.