Improve Your Posture

When we think of our overall well being and health, there is one area that a lot of us neglect. We neglect our posture and this should be our top priority.

When we were children, we probably had perfect posture because we were more fluid and moved a great more than we now do. Most of us tend to sit at our computers, either at work or at home, much longer than we should.

Basic posture requires that we have our spine and our abdominal muscles are equally strong for the best possible alignment. Posture, whether good or bad, will have a major effect on your body and your mood.  People who have good posture tend to be happier and out going and those that slump or slouch tend to be depressed and uncertain.

This can be changed but you have to be aware of every move you make. Here are a few suggestions that may help you change and improve your posture.

Walking – Ladies watch those high heals because they will throw you hips forward and this can cause shortening of some of the muscles and you will develop back pain. When you are walking your gait must be even, make sure the weight is evenly distributed between both side when you step out. The length of the step, on both the right and left foot, must be equal.

Standing – When standing ensure that the weight is evenly distributed and you stand on both feet. When you breathe in engage your stomach muscles and pull the shoulders back so you are standing straight. Be aware of the position of you head, do not let it lean to one side or the other but have it straight and looking forward.

Sitting at your computer –Always have you screen elevated off your desk so you are looking straight at it. Ideally when seated on your chair your hips should be higher than you knees. Keep you feet flat on the floor – hip width apart. Always stand up at regular intervals if you are working at your computer. It is recommended that you have a five minute break every 30 minutes – go and get a glass of water. Water is essential to keep you hydrated especially if you are working in air-conditioning.

Sitting in a comfortable chair – If you are sitting reading do not look down to read but lift the book up. If you are watching television make sure that your head is facing forward and you so not have to twist your neck. Do no slump in the chair and try to maintain you back against the back of the chair.

Sleeping – It is important that you have a firm mattress to sleep on this ensures that you body weight is evenly distributed. If you have a soft mattress you will be probably creating a curve in your spine and over time this can result in back pain.

At all times of the day, be conscious how you are sitting, standing or walking. Allow yourself a massage once a month as this will help reduce the stress that can build up in your shoulder area from constantly sitting in front of your computer.

To YOUR success

Sue McDonald

Read more at Health Through Healing Hands