Posture is an integral part of everyday health and wellbeing, yet it is something that most of us overlook and pay little mind to. The next time you pass a full-length mirror, without making a special effort to try and stand up straight, just have a quick look at your posture and see how you’re standing. When you’re standing up, is your back straight or are your shoulders hunched forward and are you slouching? Poor posture is responsible for numerous aches and pains and if it isn’t addressed, it can cause some pretty-severe ramifications later on in life. Good posture, however, can make you appear taller and leaner, it can help you to address back and neck pain, it can help you to become more flexible, and much more besides. If your posture is lacking, here are 4 simple ways to improve it.
Consider using a laptop stand – If you work at a desk in front of a computer, or if you simply spend a long time sitting in front of a computer, you may wish to consider using a laptop stand. Laptop stands are useful because they mean that you’re looking at your computer screen from a level angle, instead of constantly looking down. This helps to keep your head level and it helps to avoid lengthy spells of flexion of the cervical spine. Using a laptop stand is great, especially if you suffer with slumped shoulders and general neck aches and pains.
Keep your back straight – Let’s face it, if you want to be comfortable, slouching is generally comfy. The problem is that slouching is a leading contributor to back ache and poor posture because it places additional stress onto the spine. Slouching can also put strain and pressure onto your internal organs, your muscles, your joints, and your bones. Whenever you find yourself slouching, whether standing or sitting, brace your core, straighten your shoulders and back, lift up your head and stand or sit up straight.
Be mindful of how you drive – If you drive, being comfortable behind the wheel is essential. Some people get into the habit of reclining their seats as they drive. While this can be beneficial for short journeys every now and then, if you do it too much it can be bad for your back and your posture. When you drive, it’s best to pull your seat closer to the steering wheel so that you can sit up straight. You also need to make sure that you don’t fully lock out your legs. Instead, your knees need to be bent slightly at hip level, or maybe even a little higher.
Choose a supportive mattress – Sure, soft and bouncy mattresses are comfy to lay on short-term, but if your mattress is too soft, overtime you will likely suffer from poor posture and the general aches and pains that go with it. Ideally you want a firm mattress which is supportive and of good quality. Ones with memory foam are useful as they hold their shape and mould themselves around your spine’s natural shape as you sleep. Try to sleep with your head level with your spine, so either remove pillows if you have too many, or add them if you have too few.
Check out Smart Back Brace:
The smart way to improve your posture - View Details