Let’s talk about squatting. Not the gym kind with a barbell on your shoulders and heavy weights (unless that’s your thing)—I mean the simple, humble deep squat. You know, butt-to-heels, knees bent, feet flat on the ground. The kind of squat a toddler just naturally drops into when they’re playing with blocks or staring intensely at a bug on the sidewalk.

Somewhere along the way—thanks to chairs, cars, couches, and maybe a little too much Netflix—we kind of forgot how to do that. But here’s the thing: the ability to deep squat isn’t just a “fitness flex” or something reserved for yogis and CrossFitters. It’s one of those basic human movements that should stick with us for life. And if we work to keep it, it can be a total game-changer as we age.

So what’s the big deal about squatting?

Well, let me paint a picture. You’re in your seventies. You drop something under the couch. Or maybe you’re gardening. Or you lose your balance for a second in the kitchen. What your body does next can determine whether you bounce back smoothly… or end up with a tweaked back, a bruised hip, or worse.

Being able to drop into a squat safely—and get back up—is like having a built-in shock absorber. It gives your body a low center of gravity, keeps your hips and knees strong, your ankles mobile, and your core engaged. It’s balance, flexibility, strength, and control all in one move.

Deep squatting helps you:

• Avoid falls and awkward stumbles. That “catch yourself” instinct works better when your joints are mobile and responsive.
• Stay independent. You can pick things up off the floor, get up and down from low places (think toilet seats, low chairs, gardening beds), and generally move through the world with confidence.
• Support digestion and elimination. Yep, squatting helps things move ahem downward with gravity, as nature intended.
• Maintain joint health. Full range of motion keeps the synovial fluid flowing, and prevents stiffness from creeping in.
• Prevent injuries. Because strong hips and knees = fewer surprises when you twist, reach, or misstep.

Personally…

I’ve found that keeping my deep squat practice alive (even if it’s just hanging out there for a few minutes a day) connects me to my body in a very grounded, primal way. Sometimes I’ll even take phone calls from a squat, or hang out in one while reading something on my phone. It’s a nice break from chairs and keeps my hips happy.

I’ve also noticed it makes things like stretching, massage work, and even meditating feel more integrated. It reminds me that we’re meant to move naturally, not just in straight lines or from the safety of ergonomically-designed seating.

Don’t worry if you can’t do it yet.

If the idea of getting your heels to the ground feels like climbing Everest—no sweat. Start where you are. Use support (a wall, a yoga block, even a sturdy chair behind you), and let gravity slowly become your friend. Loosen up your calves, ankles, and hips. Go slow. Breathe. With a little bit of consistent attention, your body remembers.

Trust me—your future self will thank you.

“In the deep squat, we return to the earth—grounded, present, and still. It’s not just a posture, but a remembering of how to be rooted in our body and at peace with gravity.”