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Maintaining Good Posture

Maintaining Good Posture

No matter how many times your parents told you to sit up straight at the dinner table, most people still tend to slouch. Learning to maintain a good posture can have serious health benefits. Luckily, anyone can learn proper posture.

Why is Posture Important Anyway?

We hear all the time about the importance of good posture. But how many of us know why standing up straight is so vital?

The truth is, good posture is as crucial as they say. From your spine to your digestion to your confidence, there’s no underestimating the value of good posture:

  • Spinal healthnot only can bad posture damage the shape of your spine, but it can put a strain on the blood vessels there too.
  • Healthy Digestion: bad posture compresses your stomach, which negatively affects your digestive system.
  • Easy Breathing: the more your body gets used to sitting up straight, the easier it will be to take the deep breaths you need.
  • Confidence: those who stand tall look and feel better. Good posture could be your key to looking and feeling self-assured.
  • Muscle Strength: keeping your body in proper alignment keeps your muscles from getting strained so that they can stay strong and capable.  

How to Have Good Sitting Posture

We spend so much of our time sitting, whether it’s in our cars or at our offices. Luckily there are some simple things you can do to help benefit your sitting posture:

  • Take regular walks: Getting up to move throughout the day will keep your back muscles active, so you don’t succumb to slouching.
  • Keep your legs uncrossed and your feet on the floor: this helps with the alignment of your spine.
  • Keep your elbows at a 90-degree angle when possible: this prevents unnecessary strain on your shoulders.
  • Stretch your muscles regularly: this helps with keeping your blood flowing, loosening up tight muscles, and increasing body awareness so you can sit up straight.

How to Have Good Standing Posture

Let’s say you’re waiting in a long line, working at a standing desk, or have a demanding job where you’re on your feet all day. Follow these easy tips to help with good standing posture:

  • Let your arms hang at your sides: do what feels natural. Good posture should feel relaxed.
  • Pull your stomach inwards: this simple trick is an excellent way to make sure your core stays engaged while you stand.
  • Carry your weight in the balls of your feet: sinking into your heels will make you unstable.

Good posture doesn’t happen overnight, but these simple practices can help you get to a point where you don’t even have to think about it anymore. Do right by your body and learn to sit and stand tall!