The Health Benefits of Good Posture
Good posture is the position which is attained when the joints are biomechanically sound and able to
move in the direction they are designed to and the spine is aligned. Maintaining good posture involves
learning how to train your body to move and function where the least strain is placed on bones, joints and soft tissues. Additionally, a body that is in equilibrium will attain its alignment and continue proper mobility.
Posture Checklist
Training your body to sit upright can be a challenge. Follow this posture checklist to learn the proper way
to sit with good posture:
Keep a straight back, maintaining all three natural curves in the spine
Distribute weight evenly on both hips
Keep head and neck aligned over shoulders
Sit back in a chair – the back should be supported by the seat back
Adjust chair so that the hips are slightly higher than the knee
Support feet on the floor or a footrest
Avoid being seated for long periods of time; move around at least once every hour
Do not twist or bend back from a seated position
Good Posture: What can it do for you?
There are many health benefits associated with having good posture, such as a spike in self-esteem and self-image, reduced negative mood and increase in positivity!
Good posture can:
Optimize breathing and circulation
Maintain bones and joints in correct alignment so muscles are used properly and efficiently
Reduce or prevent abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in degenerative diseases
(Example: Arthritis)
Decrease stress on soft tissues: ligaments, muscles, tendons, discs
Prevent the spine from becoming fixed in abnormal positions
Prevent fatigue, including muscle fatigue
Prevent postural strain or overuse
Prevent neck or back pain
Contribute to a healthy image or appearance
Start today! Practice makes permanent, so practice great posture throughout your day.
Sources:
http://ergonomics.ucr.edu/posture.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25222091