How to Improve Your Posture

Your body health is linked to your posture, and you can improve your overall health with just a few simple changes in the way you stand, sit, and move. Whether sitting at work or spending long hours playing video games on the couch, you need to focus on your posture. So let's take a deeper look at some steps that you can take to improve your posture, relieve muscle stress, and keep you feeling healthy. Here are some ways to do so.

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What Is Good Posture?

Good posture is key to relieving stress on your body. It also helps increase your overall health. For example, poor posture puts extra stress on your back and neck, which leads to tension headaches and neck aches. Good posture reduces back pain and discomfort by ensuring your body is always aligned correctly to prevent stiffness and future injuries.

The key to good posture is the position of your spine. Your spine has three natural curves: at your neck, mid-back, and low back. Correct posture should maintain these curves but not increase them. In addition, your head should be above your shoulders, and the top of your shoulders should be over the hips.

What Are the Benefits of Good Posture?

Good posture can not only relieve tension and improve circulation in your body but also helps improve productivity and mental focus, which is especially helpful if you spend a lot of time sitting down or looking at a computer screen. Over time, poor posture can cause several different issues in your body. It may be hard to pinpoint why you're so stressed and tense, but improving your posture is one of those simple things that can make a difference in how you feel and boost your productivity.

Ways to Improve Your Posture

Be mindful of your posture when you're doing activities like watching TV, washing dishes, or walking. Stay active by doing exercises that involve your whole body, like yoga and tai chi.
Do exercises that work your core muscles to help keep your posture strong.

Maintain a healthy weight to keep unnecessary strain off your neck and back.
Wear comfortable shoes that won't throw off your posture. For example, high heels can throw off your balance and make you walk differently. Putting more stress on your muscles can harm your posture.
Make sure work surfaces are at a comfortable height for you, whether you're sitting in front of a computer, making dinner, or eating a meal.

How can I improve my posture if I am sitting?

Take frequent breaks and switch sitting positions often.
Take a brief walk around your office or home.
Gently stretch your muscles every hour or so to help relieve muscle tension.
Leave your legs uncrossed; keep your feet on the floor, with your ankles in front of your knees.
Relax your shoulders; they should not be pulled backward or rounded.

Keep your elbows tucked in, close to your body. Keep them bent between 90 and 120 degrees.
Use a back pillow or other back support if your chair does not have a backrest. 
Have a well-padded seat that supports your hips and thighs. They should parallel to the floor.

How do you improve your posture? Tell us in a comment!

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"'Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.'"

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)