3 Ways to Improve Your Posture and Health

By Alexis Mills

Focusing on improving your health and posture is something that can be done with simple steps, but it requires the conscious and correct behavior and effort to improve the way that you want. Having a strong neutral spine has many health benefits, such as reducing stress on the ligaments, preventing pain, using your energy efficiently, and maintaining correct alignment. See what you can do to improve your posture and elevate your health.

Proper, Deep Breathing 

We all breathe naturally without any conscious effort. But the way that you breathe has an impact on your whole body, from regulating important functions to putting less stress on the body. Deep breathing or belly breathing, instead of chest breathing, is associated with various health benefits. Breathing from your chest relies on muscles around the neck and collarbone instead of the diaphragm; this breathing pattern, mixed with poor posture, causes the upper body to not function properly. By actively participating in deep, slow breaths, you will be able to change your rounded shoulders to proper posture.

Routine Chiropractic Care

If you aren't completely familiar with chiropractic care, it targets the spine and has been proven to help people improve their poor posture. A chiropractor can target where you need fixing. A chiropractor can specifically help with different postural problems such as hunchback, uneven hips or pelvis, forward head posture, scoliosis, and damage to curvature of the spine.

These different imbalances are part of what creates your poor posture and has a negative effect on the nervous system. Through chiropractic adjustments, a chiropractor is able to remove any joint restrictions you have to improve your posture. A chiropractor can also provide advice on exercises and what you can do in your daily life to help.

Yoga or Stretching

Regularly participating in yoga and stretching is another practice that will help you stop slouching and be able to sit up straight with strength. Yoga focuses on the breathing techniques -- such as those discussed above -- and movements that help you learn how to maintain the optimal curves of the spine. In order to hold proper posture, you need muscles surrounding your spine to support you.

In addition to the above tips, make sure to bring awareness to your posture throughout daily life. Pay attention to how you sit, stand, or lie down, and fix your posture when you feel yourself slumping. You have the power to elevate your health and improve your posture.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arlington, Tex.