Good posture is a hot topic these days, and for good reason. With the prevalence of cell phones, tablets, and computers, many people spend hours a day on these devices for work and play. The result is often a shift in posture that can lead to rounded shoulders or a slouchy stance. Poor posture can be unattractive at best, but it can also impact your overall health when it becomes chronic. Understanding how and why to focus on this area can help you take the right steps toward maintaining a strong and healthy body that’s well-supported.
The How’s of Good Posture
It takes time to develop and maintain your posture, whether good or bad. These factors require a routine commitment.
A Nutritious Diet
Your posture relies on how well you strengthen and train your muscles and bones to support the weight of your body. These important tissues require the right kind of nutrition to maintain their strength and (in the case of muscles, tendons, and ligaments) flexibility. A healthy diet is the often overlooked foundation of a strong core and spine, the integral components of healthy posture.
Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D play an important role in bone health and can help support a strong spine. Low-fat dairy and green leafy vegetables are great sources of these nutrients. Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in an assortment of colors is a good approach to consuming more antioxidants.
If you have difficulty eating enough of the foods your body needs to stay nourished, healthy, and strong, taking vitamin and mineral supplements can help. When you add this type of product to your daily routine, you can be sure your body is getting more of what it needs to maintain healthy bones, muscles, and organs. Talk with your doctor about which options may work well for you based on your typical diet and unique needs.
Routine Exercise and Stretching
To keep your joints flexible and your muscles limber, regular exercise is key. This also helps support robust circulation throughout the body so every tissue gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Cardio is certainly important, but strength and muscle training is also an essential step in a good workout routine. Using weights or resistance techniques helps strengthen the muscles that support your weight. Stretching helps prevent the tension that can lead to improper posture.
Appropriate Posture Technique
Good posture takes practice. In addition to giving your body a good workout, you also need to train it to stand and sit the proper way. Alignment can be tricky to figure out on your own, so use a mirror or have a friend take photos or videos to help you identify what needs to be changed. Posture correctors and guides can help you develop the right technique for sitting while you drive or type at a computer. Just remember to start slowly to avoid muscle strain.
The Why’s of Good Posture
Your posture can give a very specific first impression to others. As it can be a reflection of your mood and confidence. Tall, proper posture can be opening and inviting and can have a positive impact on your social interactions. It can also help you support healthy self-esteem levels.
Good posture has many health benefits as well. Sitting and standing tall allows your lungs to have the space they need for proper expansion when you breathe. It can support healthy digestion as well by ensuring your gastrointestinal organs aren’t compressed. Good posture can also help you avoid unnecessary muscle strain and fatigue throughout the body.
Focusing on your posture can be a worthwhile endeavor that helps support a healthy body and mind. No matter what type of lifestyle you lead, you can take steps to easily and effectively maintain proper posture.
