3 Tricks for Improving Posture
By Genevieve Cunningham
Posture is more important than most of us realize. On some level, we understand that it's important to stand up straight and feel confident in our bodies and in who we are. Unfortunately, poor posture tends to develop over time, and by the time we realize our slouching ways, we've developed a habit that's hard to break. But the good news is that we can do it! If you would like to improve your posture in order to improve health and self-esteem, take a look at these tips to help you do it.
Try Yoga
Yoga is so good for strengthening and lengthening the body. Those who regularly practice yoga often find that their posture improves rather naturally. Through the practice of holding particular poses, the shoulders, back, and core all become stronger. And over time, this strength carries through to the everyday. You don't have to do hours and hours of yoga every day in order to see the effects. Just do a few minutes a few times per week, and you should begin to notice the benefits.
Get Some Sleep
When the body is tired, you're far more likely to slouch or slump the shoulders forward. Instead of allowing the body to get to this exhausted state, make good sleep a priority. Go to bed on time and wake up on time. Turn off your lights and the TV and put down your phone. Making these changes to your routine can enhance your sleep, which may inadvertently improve your posture just a little every day.
Boost Mental Health
Poor mental health is linked to poor posture, and it's linked in both directions. If you're not mentally healthy, you're more likely to slouch. And if you're slouching, you're more likely to suffer from poor mental health. It's not a bad idea to improve both areas of your health at the same time. Improve your mental health with regular movement, trips to a counselor, a supportive friend group, and regular self-checks. And then improve your posture by pulling the stomach in, relaxing the shoulders, and pulling your shoulder blades together. Together, these two tips can create a positive spiral of better health and confidence.
Posture matters more than we like to admit. Not only does it improve basic health, but it makes us feel good about ourselves. And we all want to feel good about ourselves! Use these tips to improve your posture just a little bit every day, and enjoy the new you that carries you into the future.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Orange, Calif.