Good posture is a hallmark of good health. However, it goes beyond just standing straight. We tend to ignore how we stand, sit and maintain our posture, which has a detrimental effect on our long-term health – it can prevent injuries and pain.
How do we describe “posture”? Posture is how we hold our body, while we are moving and when we are sitting, standing or sleeping. The secret to correct posture resides in our spine. Our spine has three natural curves at the neck, mid back and lower back. When these curves are not aligned, it can result in long-term problems such as:
- Back and Shoulder Pain: Slouching or sitting in one place for long periods of time without movement can create muscle tension and stiffness.
- Restricts Blood Circulation
- Can result in misaligned spine, which results in problems in the musculoskeletal system
- Restricts movement of joints
- Poor digestion: Sitting for long periods can result in slouching, which can compress the abdomen and chest, resulting in delayed digestion.
- Impaired lung function: Poor posture can limit the amount of oxygen intake in the lungs during a breathe. When the lung function and capacity are negatively affected because of leaning or hunching, other vital organs such as the brain, heart etc do not get adequate supply of oxygen.
- Decrease in flexibility
Here are a few ways you can correct your posture
- Be more mindful of your posture. It is common for us to ignore it, however half the battle is won if we are mindful of our current posture.
- Exercise regularly: Certain types of physical activity such as Yoga, Tai Chi are geared towards proper alignment of the body, as they strengthen your core and muscles around the back, abdomen and pelvis.
- Sustain a healthy lifestyle by maintaining your weight.
- When sitting, take regular breaks, walk around, stretch your muscles, relax
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