Simple Steps to Good Posture
By Sara Butler
Your chiropractor has probably told you all about the importance of good posture. Good posture helps you to feel good, look good and might also lead to less back pain down the line. If you want to try to pay more attention to your posture but aren’t really sure where to start, here are some simple steps you can follow to help you get there!
Imagine There’s No Back Pain
This one is easy to do! All you have to do is imagine a line running from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet. This line passes through ankles, knees, hips and shoulders vertically and is attached to an imaginary string. Now imagine this string pulling your head up, making you stand up taller. Focus on your hips and try to keep it level so your lower back can’t sway and make sure your feet are firmly on the ground. Think about your head reaching all the way up to the ceiling, creating space between the bones in your back, your hips and your ribs. This imagery will help you to stand tall without standing rigid – think of it more as if you’re a graceful ballerina rather than a soldier standing at attention.
Squeeze the Blades!
Focusing on your shoulder blades is another good strategy to help you attain proper posture. You should sit up straight in a chair, resting your hands on your thighs in front of you. Your chin should stay level with the ground and your shoulders should be down – not up by your ears! Now, slowly but surely bring your shoulders back, imagining your shoulder blades moving closer together as you squeeze. Hold this for five seconds, relax and then do it again a few times.
Stretch it Out!
Another tactic you can try in your pursuit of proper posture is the upper body stretch. To do this stretch stand with your nose in the corner. Now raise your arms and put your hands flat against the wall right in front of you, keeping your elbows at the same height as your shoulders. Put one foot in front of the other and bend at your knee, exhaling as you lean into the corner. Throughout this exercise, your back should be straight with your head up and your chest out. If you’re doing it right you should feel a gentle stretch across your chest. Hold this position for about 30 seconds and then relax. Repeat if you’re so inclined.
Proper posture isn’t hard to get in the habit of doing; you may just need to try these tips until they become a habit. If you need more help with your posture, talk to your chiropractor about it during your next visit to The Joint Chiropractic!