5 min read

How Coffee & Sitting Habits Impact Health

If you’ve worked in a café—or spent hours sipping coffee while typing—you know the rhythm of long shifts on your feet or extended periods seated with a fresh brew in hand. But what if those hours, paired with your coffee habit, carried more weight than you thought?

How Coffee & Sitting Habits Impact Health

If you’ve worked in a café—or spent hours sipping coffee while typing—you know the rhythm of long shifts on your feet or extended periods seated with a fresh brew in hand. But what if those hours, paired with your coffee habit, carried more weight than you thought?

How Coffee & Sitting Habits Impact Health

If you’ve worked in a café—or spent hours sipping coffee while typing—you know the rhythm of long shifts on your feet or extended periods seated with a fresh brew in hand. But what if those hours, paired with your coffee habit, carried more weight than you thought?

Recent research is shedding light on the connection between coffee, prolonged sitting, and overall health. A groundbreaking 2024 study published in BMC Public Health analyzed over 13 years of data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), uncovering intriguing insights about how extended sitting time and coffee consumption affect long-term health outcomes. For coffee lovers in Minnesota—whether you're grabbing a cup at Ember Cafe, exploring Minnesota coffee roasters like Ember Coffee in Big Lake, or searching for the best coffee in MN—these findings are especially relevant.

Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a ritual, a companion through early mornings, long workdays, and late-night brainstorming sessions. Specialty-grade coffee brands like those roasted locally near Minneapolis offer a whole new level of quality and flavor. But could your daily caffeine fix—combined with hours spent seated—impact your lifespan? From local coffee beans to fresh coffee near Minneapolis, understanding the balance between lifestyle habits and health is critical, whether you’re enjoying the best coffee in Minnesota or exploring roasteries nearby.

For coffee enthusiasts looking to make more mindful choices, the story this research unveils may inspire you to rethink habits. So next time you’re searching for local roasted coffee, coffee roasters near me, or Minnesota coffee shops, keep in mind how your daily brew and sitting time might shape your overall well-being.

Why Sitting Is Dangerous

We all know sitting too much isn’t great for your health, but just how bad is it? Research shows prolonged sitting carries serious risks—and your daily cup of coffee could surprisingly help reduce some of those dangers.

Here’s what the data reveals:

Spending more than 8 hours a day sitting increases your risk of dying from any cause by 46%, and your risk of dying from cardiovascular issues jumps by 79%. For anyone with a sedentary lifestyle—whether due to long work hours or modern habits—this is a wake-up call.

But there’s good news for coffee lovers. Regular coffee consumption has been linked to big health benefits, including a 33% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 54% lower risk of cardiovascular-related death compared to non-drinkers. In short, enjoying your morning brew might give you a health advantage.

The benefits are even greater for coffee drinkers who sit less. Pairing fewer than 6 hours of daily sitting with regular coffee drinking results in the lowest risks across the board, particularly for heart health and longevity.

On the other hand, sitting too long without coffee appears to be especially harmful. Non-coffee drinkers who sit for over 6 hours a day are 58% more likely to die from any cause compared to coffee drinkers with more active lifestyles.

The takeaway? Sitting too much is a serious health risk, but coffee can be a surprising ally. While it’s not a substitute for staying active, your daily cup of coffee might offer a protective buffer.

If you’re in Minnesota, consider elevating your coffee game with local roasteries like Ember, one of the best coffee roasters near Minneapolis. Ember Coffee is known for its specialty grade coffee, roasted fresh in Big Lake, MN. Whether you're looking for local roasted coffee, Minnesota coffee shops, or fresh coffee near you, Ember delivers some of the best coffee in Minnesota. Stop by their cafe or pick up a bag of their local coffee beans to enjoy at home.

So, if you’re stuck at a desk all day, pair your movement breaks with a fresh cup of coffee—it might do more for your health than you think. And with great options like Ember Coffee, your coffee break just got even better.

Why This Matters for Cafés

As someone rooted in café culture, I see three immediate implications:

1. Cafés as “Third Places” Must Embrace Movement

For decades, cafés have served as more than just places to grab a coffee. They’ve become “third places”—sanctuaries that exist between home and work, where people come to connect, create, and reflect. Whether it's the writer typing away at their next novel in the corner, friends catching up over lattes, or professionals hosting impromptu meetings, cafés have always been spaces that fuel both conversations and ideas. But here’s the question we need to ask: how can these spaces continue to engage people without encouraging long periods of stillness?

The truth is, while cafés nourish the mind and soul, they often leave the body behind. Hours spent hunched over a laptop or sunk into a chair can take a toll, and as we learn more about the dangers of prolonged sitting, it’s time to rethink what café culture could look like.

Imagine this: a café where movement is seamlessly woven into the experience. Subtle prompts—like signs or friendly reminders from baristas—encourage customers to stand or stretch every so often. Picture a dedicated “standing bar” area, where patrons can sip their coffee and chat while staying on their feet. Or perhaps cafés could host dynamic events that blend movement and community, like “Espresso & Stretch” mornings, where small groups gather for a quick yoga session before their caffeine fix, or mid-day walking coffee meetups, giving people a chance to connect while strolling outdoors.

These ideas are more than just trends; they’re opportunities to reimagine how cafés serve their patrons in a holistic way—catering not just to the brain, but also to the body. By embracing these changes, cafés can continue to be hubs of creativity and connection while fostering well-being for everyone who walks through their doors.

2. Coffee as a Health-Promoting Ritual

Picture this: the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air as someone takes their first sip of the day, savoring the warm, rich flavors. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a daily ritual, a moment of pause in a busy world. Across cultures, coffee has long been a beloved staple, and research continues to reveal its potential health benefits—particularly for heart health.

A recent study highlighted an important nuance: the type of coffee and added ingredients, like sugar, syrups, or cream, were not accounted for. While this leaves room for further exploration, the findings align with growing evidence that coffee contains polyphenols and antioxidants—compounds known to support cardiovascular health. It’s not just a pick-me-up; it’s a cup of well-being.

For Minnesota coffee roasters like Ember Coffee, this is a golden opportunity to delight and educate customers. Whether you’re searching for fresh coffee near me or the best coffee in Minnesota, local coffee shops like Ember offer much more than just a caffeine boost. They can transform the experience into one of thoughtful, mindful consumption. Here’s how:

  • Educate customers on healthier coffee choices. Highlight options like black coffee, unsweetened alternatives, or plant-based milks. Share tips on enjoying coffee without excess sugar or additives. Local coffee shops in Minneapolis, like Ember Cafe, are great examples of how to blend flavor with health.
  • Showcase brewing methods that preserve beneficial compounds. Promote filter coffee or traditional brewing techniques that retain natural antioxidants and polyphenols. Specialty grade coffee brands and Minnesota coffee roasteries can even offer tastings or classes to deepen customer appreciation for these methods.
  • Share the science, but stay honest. Transparency is key. While coffee has incredible potential benefits, avoid exaggerated health claims. Instead, build trust by presenting facts clearly and responsibly.

Given the complex nature of coffee, researchers note that further study is needed to explore its full effects. While it’s tempting to label it as a “miracle drink,” the real value lies in fostering a meaningful connection between coffee and well-being.

For those seeking the best coffee in MN, coffee roasters near Minneapolis, or a cozy spot to enjoy locally roasted coffee, Ember Coffee in Big Lake, Minnesota, provides both high-quality coffee and a thoughtful approach. From specialty grade coffee to locally roasted beans, Ember is more than just another coffee shop—it’s a hub for mindful coffee lovers.

Coffee isn’t just fuel for the body; it’s nourishment for the soul. So whether you’re visiting Minnesota coffee shops or looking for coffee roasters near me, remember that every cup can be a step toward better living.

3. Reflect on Your Own Habits

Running a bustling café is often a physically demanding job, but as businesses grow and responsibilities shift, something interesting happens—leaders often find themselves moving less. While baristas are on their feet crafting drinks and engaging with customers, managers and owners tend to drift toward more sedentary tasks. Inventory checks, vendor calls, marketing campaigns, payroll spreadsheets—it’s easy to spend hours sitting in front of a screen or on the phone without realizing how little you’ve moved.

But here’s the thing: a café is only as healthy as the leadership behind it. Every decision you make sets the tone for the culture of your business. If you’re neglecting your own well-being, it can ripple out to your team. So how can café operators balance the demands of business growth while staying physically and mentally well?

Incorporating movement and mindfulness into your workday doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about making small, intentional changes that can have a big impact. Take your workspace, for example. If it’s keeping you glued to your chair all day, it might be time for a refresh. Imagine having a standing desk or a flexible setup that allows you to switch between sitting and standing. Even minor tweaks, like placing your most-used items just out of reach, can get you up and moving more often.

Then there’s the way we approach meetings. Not every conversation needs to happen at a table or in front of a screen. Picture this: a quick five-minute walk with a colleague, brainstorming ideas or discussing a project. Those “walk and talk” meetings can do wonders for creativity, reduce stress, and get your blood circulating—all while keeping the conversation productive.

Finally, it’s about setting the tone for everyone around you. By taking short breaks to stretch, breathe, or hydrate, you’re not just looking after yourself—you’re showing your team that self-care and movement are important. When you lead by example, you create a work culture where these habits are normalized. The result? A more energized team and a healthier, happier workplace.

Chris Deferio, host of the "Keys to the Shop" podcast, often reminds café professionals of an essential truth: leadership begins with self-care. As he puts it:

“If you’re not caring for people—including yourself—then your systems are hollow. Leadership begins with personal health and ends with collective wellness.”

The takeaway? The way you treat yourself sets the precedent for how your team will approach their own well-being. By prioritizing your health, you’re not just taking care of yourself—you’re laying the foundation for a sustainable, thriving café culture.

Let’s Talk Practical Action

Picture this: a cozy café bustling with life, where customers sip their lattes, type away on their laptops, and chat over steaming cups of coffee. It’s a scene we all know and love, but have you ever considered how your café could promote healthier habits without losing its charm? At Ember, one of the top Minnesota coffee roasters based in Big Lake, we believe every coffee space—whether it’s a community-focused café or a specialty-grade coffee brand—can double as a hub for wellness.

Here’s a wellness to-do list for cafés like Ember Cafe or other coffee shops in Minneapolis, Minnesota coffee shops, and beyond:

  • Create movement-friendly zones. Small additions like standing tables, open spaces, or subtle signs encouraging mid-coffee stretches can help customers stay active. Even roasteries, like those searching for a “coffee roasters near me,” can incorporate wellness through smart design.
  • Educate without overselling. Share facts about coffee’s health benefits in a genuine, approachable way. For example, explain how specialty-grade coffee brands like Ember Coffee offer a fresh, energizing start to the day without making exaggerated claims.
  • Train your team to embrace movement. Encourage employees to avoid long periods of standing in one spot or sitting during breaks. When your staff embodies wellness, it naturally influences the energy in your café. Whether it’s a Minnesota coffee roastery or one of the best coffee spots in MN, fostering wellness starts from within.
  • Lead with empathy. Promoting wellness isn’t about lecturing your guests—it’s about creating a space where good health and great coffee coexist. Whether it’s offering inviting environments or thoughtful encouragement, little gestures make a big impact.

For those seeking the best coffee in Minnesota, Ember Coffee and other local coffee roasters near Minneapolis are about more than just freshly roasted coffee beans. We’re about creating community spaces that inspire healthier habits while delivering the best coffee in MN.

Cafés are more than just places to grab a latte—they’re workspaces, communities, and escapes from the daily grind. Whether you’re seeking "local roasted coffee" or wondering where to find the freshest “coffee roasters near me,” places like Ember can lead the way in combining wellness with the love of coffee.

Final Thoughts

There’s something poetic about the relationship between coffee and mortality. The very drink that helps us wake up each morning, that pulls us from the fog of sleep, may also—when combined with an active lifestyle—offer a measure of protection for our health. It’s a small but powerful ritual, repeated millions of times a day across the world: the sound of beans grinding, the aroma of brewing coffee, the first sip that jolts us into clarity.

As a café community, we’re more than just servers of caffeine; we are guardians of these meaningful daily moments. Every cup we pour is part of a larger ritual, one that connects people not just to their mornings, but to their well-being. What if those rituals could do more? What if they could not only wake us up but also sustain us, both physically and mentally? It's time to see coffee not just as a habit, but as an opportunity to make our lives—and those of our customers—healthier, richer, and more intentional. Let’s elevate the ritual, one cup at a time.

Transform your daily coffee into a wellness ritual

At Ember Coffee Co., we’re here to help you rethink your routine. Coffee isn’t just about the brew—it’s an opportunity to pause, reset, and energize. Next time you pour a cup, consider pairing it with a quick stretch or a refreshing walk to fuel both body and mind.

→ Stop by our café or visit our shop to discover how better coffee can inspire better habits.

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Community
Brewing Community and Connection
The Essence of Specialty Coffee Coffee is more than just a caffeinated beverage. It’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a bridge that connects people. At Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Big Lake, Minnesota, we believe in creating that connection through our locally roasted, award-winning coffee. Today, we want to delve into the importance of customer service in the specialty coffee industry, and how we strive to uphold it in spite of the growing trend towards automation. Since the birth of the coffee industry, customer service has been paramount. The evolution from consumers expecting their coffee to be roasted for them in the 1800s to the modern-day emphasis on freshness, quality, and craft, has transformed the way coffee shops engage with their customers. The rise of chains like Starbucks and Peet’s has put hospitality and service at the forefront of business operations, a trend that third wave and specialty coffee brands, like Ember Coffee, have embraced and built upon. However, the increasing adoption of automation in the industry presents a challenge. While new technologies streamline service, they also risk diluting the barista culture, a vital part of the specialty coffee experience. As Starbucks' recent strategy shift towards simpler menus and premium experiences demonstrates, coffee shops can't afford to sacrifice the customer experience for efficiency. In an article published by Perfect Daily Grind, Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood, the managing director of Colonna Coffee, and Laila Ghambari, the owner of Juniors Roasted Coffee and Guilder Café, discuss the complexities of offering exceptional customer service in the specialty coffee industry. The Art of Customer Service in Specialty Coffee In the world of specialty coffee, baristas are not just service providers; they are artisans. They dial in espresso, pour latte art, hand brew pour overs, and explain the nuances of extraction and flavor. This transforms coffee into more than just a product, creating an elevated sense of hospitality and enhancing the overall customer experience. However, as the industry expands and becomes increasingly competitive, offering exceptional service and serving high-quality coffee alone is no longer enough to retain a consumer base and attract new customers. Even Starbucks, a giant in the industry, has grappled with this challenge, as their sales dipped in key markets throughout 2023 and 2024. Specialty Coffee's Edge: Authenticity and Connection Despite the challenges, specialty coffee shops like Ember Coffee have an edge over bigger chains. Our commitment to artisanry, craft, and ethical sourcing signals to our customers that they are not just buying a product, but an experience. We believe in fostering intimate relationships with our customers, creating a personable service that larger coffee businesses often struggle to replicate. According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, 88% of consumers said trust is critical when deciding which brands to buy or use, with customer service a close second at 85%. This puts specialty coffee shops and roasters in a better position to navigate an increasingly challenging market. The Double-Edged Sword of Automation Automation has become a prominent part of the coffee industry. While it improves efficiency and resolves persistent problems such as staff training and barista shortages, it also risks eroding the artistry required to prepare and serve quality coffee. The increasing prominence of touchscreen kiosks and QR codes in restaurants and hospitality businesses might have improved efficiency, but it also risks creating a “faceless” business. As we move towards a more automated future, it's crucial for coffee shops to strike a balance between efficiency and hospitality. The face-to-face human connection that baristas provide proves critical for specialty coffee shops to stay true to their core values of hospitality. However, it’s only one part of a much wider customer experience. Navigating the Future of Customer Service in Specialty Coffee The rise of tech-driven solutions for coffee shops will undoubtedly improve efficiency, consistency, and speed of service. But with a challenging year ahead, coffee shops may choose to implement automation across the board, streamlining more than just coffee preparation. As Laila Ghambari rightly points out, "The future of customer service is not about sharing more information but investing in the experience that guests have, whether with a person or not." Digital hospitality will become more important, and customer service will continue evolving. At Ember Coffee, we are committed to navigating these changes without losing sight of what makes us unique. We understand that our customers don't just come to us for our award-winning, locally roasted coffee. They come to us for the conversations, the connections, and the community that we foster. And no matter how the industry evolves, that is something we will always strive to provide.
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Navigating the Coffee Crisis - Ember Coffee Co.
At the Roastery
Navigating the Coffee Crisis
A Minnesota Roaster's Perspective As the sun rises over the snowy landscape of Minnesota, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee wafts through the air at Ember Coffee's roastery. It's a scent that has become increasingly precious in recent months, as the coffee industry grapples with unprecedented challenges. As a local roaster deeply committed to our community, we want to share our journey through these turbulent times and our vision for the future. The Perfect Storm Brewing in Our Cups The story of today's coffee crisis begins far from our cozy Minnesota cafes, in the lush hillsides of Colombia and the vast plantations of Brazil. A series of events have converged to create what many in the industry are calling a "perfect storm": Climate Chaos: Mother Nature has not been kind to coffee growers lately. In Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, severe droughts followed by unexpected frosts have decimated crops. Farmers watched helplessly as their carefully tended plants withered under the scorching sun or succumbed to the icy grip of frost. The result? A staggering 40% reduction in yields in some areas. Unseasonal Deluges: Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the second-largest coffee producer globally, unseasonal rains have wreaked havoc. Coffee cherries, which should have been ripening under gentle sunshine, instead rotted on the branches, leading to significant crop losses and quality issues. Geopolitical Jitters: As if weather woes weren't enough, the coffee market found itself caught in a political crossfire. In early 2025, rumors swirled about potential U.S. tariffs on Colombian coffee. Though never implemented, the mere whisper of trade restrictions sent prices soaring by 15% in just a week, highlighting the fragility of global coffee trade relationships. Supply Chain Snarls: The journey of coffee beans from farm to cup has become increasingly complex and costly. Ongoing logistical challenges, exacerbated by fuel price hikes and labor shortages, have inflated transportation costs. The price of shipping a container of coffee has tripled since 2023, adding another layer of pressure to already strained margins. Market Speculation: As news of crop failures and potential shortages spread like wildfire, market speculators pounced. Their actions drove coffee futures to unprecedented heights, with the C-market price for Arabica coffee reaching a jaw-dropping $3.84 per pound in February 2025 – a 47-year high. The Ripple Effect Reaches Minnesota Here at Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Minnesota's vibrant coffee scene, we've felt the tremors of these global shifts. The impact on our operations and community has been profound: Margin Squeeze: Green coffee now accounts for a staggering 60-70% of our production costs, up from 40-50% just two years ago. This dramatic increase, coupled with rising energy and labor costs, has put immense pressure on our margins. Sourcing Struggles: Maintaining the consistent flavor profiles our customers love has become increasingly challenging. We've had to be more flexible in our sourcing, sometimes substituting origins or adjusting roast profiles to compensate for changes in bean characteristics. Pricing Predicaments: As a community-focused roaster, we're acutely aware of the impact price increases have on our customers. We've been forced to make difficult decisions about when and how to adjust our pricing to reflect the new market realities while remaining accessible to our loyal patrons. Crafting a Sustainable Future, One Bean at a Time Despite these challenges, we at Ember Coffee believe that this crisis presents an opportunity for positive change. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we're determined to emerge stronger and more sustainable. Here's how we're adapting: Nurturing Direct Trade Relationships: We're doubling down on our direct trade partnerships, offering long-term contracts at stable prices to our farmer partners. This approach not only secures our access to high-quality beans but also provides farmers with the financial security to invest in sustainable practices and climate adaptation measures. Diversifying Our Offerings: To offset rising costs and keep things exciting for our customers, we're expanding our product range. Limited edition micro-lots, experimental processing methods, and unique Minnesota-inspired coffee blends are just a few of the innovations we're exploring. Empowering Through Education: We believe that an informed customer is a loyal customer. We've launched a series on Roasting 101 on our YouTube site, and we're planning a Coffee 101 cupping sessions at our Big Lake roastery. These programs help our community understand the complexities of coffee production and pricing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft behind each cup. The Power of the Minnesota Coffee Lover As we navigate these challenges, the support and understanding of our customers are more crucial than ever. Here's how Minnesota coffee enthusiasts can contribute to a more sustainable coffee ecosystem: Embrace Transparency: We encourage our customers to ask questions about pricing, sourcing, and roasting practices. Understanding the true cost of producing exceptional coffee can help justify price adjustments when necessary. Value Quality Over Quantity: By choosing to invest in higher-quality, ethically sourced coffee, consumers can help support fair wages for farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Support Local Roasters: Minnesota's local roasters, like Ember Coffee, are deeply invested in our communities. By choosing local over national chains, consumers help keep money circulating in the local economy and support businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Experiment with Brewing Methods: Different brewing methods can extract unique flavors from coffee beans. By exploring various brewing techniques, consumers can maximize the value and enjoyment they get from each bag of coffee. Envisioning a Brighter Future for Minnesota Coffee As we look to the horizon, we see challenges, but also immense potential. Our vision for the future of specialty coffee in Minnesota is one of resilience, innovation, and community: A More Resilient Supply Chain: We're exploring collaborations with other Minnesota roasters to potentially secure better prices and more stable supply chains through collective purchasing power. Increased Local Collaboration: We envision a future where coffee is increasingly integrated into Minnesota's local food scene. Imagine coffee-infused craft beers, chocolate truffles featuring our single-origin roasts, or seasonal menus at local restaurants built around coffee pairings. Innovation in Sustainability: We're investing in research on more sustainable packaging options and exploring ways to upcycle coffee chaff and other by-products of the roasting process. Our goal is to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing the value we create. A More Educated Consumer Base: Through continued education efforts, we aim to cultivate a community of coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup and understand the global impact of their purchasing decisions. Conclusion: United in Our Love for Great Coffee As the aroma of freshly roasted coffee continues to fill our roastery, we're reminded of why we do what we do. The current coffee price crisis is undoubtedly one of the most significant challenges our industry has faced in decades. However, at Ember Coffee, we believe that by staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and community, we can not only weather this storm but emerge stronger on the other side. To our loyal customers and coffee lovers across Minnesota: your support during these turbulent times means more than you know. Every bag of Ember Coffee you purchase, every latte you enjoy in our cafe, is a vote for a more sustainable and equitable coffee future. As we navigate these uncharted waters, we remain committed to transparency, quality, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup. Together, we can ensure that Minnesota remains a beacon of excellence in the world of specialty coffee, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey, for your understanding during these difficult times, and for your unwavering love of great coffee. Here's to many more shared moments over a steaming cup of Minnesota's finest brew. Warmly,The Ember Coffee Team
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