Posture

Good posture is often taken for granted, but can have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being.

Posture is the position in which we hold our bodies while standing, sitting, or lying down. The goal is to keep your spine in a neutral position with the shoulders relaxed, and the head balanced up on top.

Poor posture (the posture we prefer for looking down at our phones, or slumped in a chair) is reminiscent of the fetal position, signaling our brains that we are scared or in danger (stress).

Good posture can have a positive impact on our mood, energy levels, and overall confidence. It allows us to distribute weight evenly throughout the body reducing the risk of developing back and neck pain.

When we stand up straight, we project an image of strength and self-assurance. We also improve our breathing and digestion, as our organs have more space to function properly.

Anyone, regardless of our age or occupation, can work on improving posture.

Here are some tips:

1: Be aware of your posture: Make a conscious effort to notice how you are holding your body throughout the day. Are your shoulders rounded? Is your head drooping forward? Once you become aware of your habits, you can start correcting them.
2: Practice good sitting habits: When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor, your back straight, and your shoulders relaxed. Avoid crossing your legs or leaning forward excessively.
3: Stand tall: When standing, keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet, and align your ears, shoulders, hips, and ankles in a straight line.
4: Stretch regularly: Take breaks throughout the day to stretch your muscles, especially those in your neck, shoulders, and back.

Above all else, remember that movement is medicine. If you find yourself often in the same posture (even a good posture), make sure you switch things up every now and then. Keep your body guessing and don’t let it get too comfortable with any one position. I remember being told my face would get stuck in a silly position if I made that face too often. While that is a little far fetched, our bodies do like to return to the position they are most used to. So, if you slouch forward most of the day, that is where your body will get “stuck”.

So keep things moving! Switch up that posture, change your positions regularly, stand up often when sitting for long periods of time, exercise, and of course visit your chiropractor often!

For more personalized posture advice, and help on your overall wellness journey, visit us at any of our locations!

At Active Health Chiropractic our physicians can focus on your overall health and wellness, enabling you to run FASTER, jump HIGHER, and recover QUICKER. Helping you ultimately in achieving your greatest health and wellness goals.