Having good posture is not something we naturally do.  It’s easier just to slump and slouch.  We’ve always heard you need to “hold your head high”.  It actually means something to do this.  But, good posture benefits your health as well as self-confidence.

How it benefits your physical health

1. It keeps your bones and joints in alignment.
2. Helps to prevent backache and muscular pain.
3. It reduces tension in the lower back and neck area.
4. Reduces stress on ligaments holding the joints in your spine together.
5. Prevents wearing on joints.
6. Prevents spine from becoming fixed in an abnormal position.
7. Helps you breathe! Sitting straight opens up the chest cavity, which can increase your oxygen intake by up to 30%.

How it benefits your mental health

1. It gives you energy–When you slump, it brings on a depressed feeling, which lowers your energy levels.
2. It makes you more productive.  Our self confidence is higher and we are always more productive when this is true.
3. Studies show that bad posture can sometimes affect how we view ourselves.
4. Give you a better sense of control over your life.
5. It shows others your are confident as well as an approachable person.  This will help you in social situations.
6. Of course it helps boost your self-esteem.

Tips to stop that slouch

1. The imaginary string:  First, your ears, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles should line up vertically.  Next, imagine a string is attached to your head and is pulling you upward without swaying your back.
2. Bring your shoulders up and roll back bringing your shoulder blades together.
3. Exercise!  Having a strong core and back definitely helps!

Why care?

In a world where self-esteem is at an all time low, sometimes changing the physical aspects of ourselves first can help us intrinsically as a by-product.  So, next time you’re going to that party that you are really nervous about or walking into a new class…Hold your head high.

xo-

Megan