Correcting Your Posture in One Easy Movement

As the years pass, our posture tends to slump.  Our core muscles don’t support our backs as they used to, and long hours typing, carrying, or sitting haven’t helped.

There is one easy movement you might try that you can do anytime you are sitting or standing.

When Standing

With your arms relaxed at your sides, your palms are likely facing your legs, and your shoulders are curved forward.  Turn your palms forward as far as you comfortably can and lift and tuck your head back.  This engages your upper back muscles, which help build the strength you need for good posture.

When Seated

Most likely, your palms are facing downward, which curves your shoulders forward.  Position your arms as if you were typing.

Turn your palms up and lift and tuck your head back.  This engages your upper back muscles, which help build the strength you need for good posture.

That’s all there is to it.

If you are practicing good vision behavior when using any electronic device (stopping every 20 minutes for 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away) that’s a great time to turn your palms up, lift your head, and tuck your chin back.  It helps your posture, relaxes your eyes, and reduces stress.

Good posture helps your muscles function well and reduces back and neck pain.  It can help improve mood and energy level.  You’ll breathe better because there is more room to expand your chest and breathe more deeply, which improves circulation, and that’s good for your brain.  Good posture even reduces stress on joints and bones and reduces tension headaches.  Start today.

Always check any new movement or exercise with your doctor or physical therapist before beginning, so they can help you find what is best for your body.