Mobility: Stand Up! Your Life Depends on it.
Most of us are attached to our computers and phones because our jobs and lives require it.
However, the posture we resort to while typing, texting, or scrolling has many physical and mental repercussions. We know that identifying the problem only gets us so far; that’s why we are committed to providing real life strategies and finding solutions that lead you to optimal health.
There are real detrimental muscular and skeletal consequences for poor posture. Some include lower back pain, muscle atrophy, and poor circulation. If left unchecked, these seemingly small problems can grow into significant and sometimes catastrophic health issues. Poor posture can cause cardiovascular diseases because a misaligned spine leads to constricted blood vessels; constricted blood vessels impacts oxygen levels in the blood and can ultimately cause clotting and disease. In addition, we often neglect to consider the spine’s intimate relationship with the nervous system. If your spine is out of alignment, so is your nervous system. Yet because most nervous system functions lack pain sensors, something may not be working properly and you wouldn’t even know it.
Another unintended and often unrecognized consequence of poor posture is how others may perceive us. Imagine a person with excellent posture. This person will likely be perceived as confident, capable, and self-assured. Conversely, imagine someone with poor posture. This person may be perceived as being quiet, timid, disengaged or apathetic. These examples show us how posture is a powerful way we send a message to the world about who we are and the kind of energy we emanate.
Now that we have identified some of the consequences of poor posture, what can we do today to make positive changes toward standing taller and feeling stronger? Throughout your day, whether at work, at home, or on the go, utilize the checklists below to will improve your posture in seconds:
When sitting:
- Are both feet on the ground?
- Can you sit back with proper lumbar support?
- Are your shoulders back?
- Are your core muscles engaged?
- Can you easily access your keyboard and mouse without hunching over?
- Are you taking breaks? Get up from your desk and get moving!
When standing:
- Are both feet firmly on the ground?
- Are you standing tall with shoulders back and core engaged?
- Are you moving? When possible, take a 5-minute walk outside!
While these practices might be difficult to remember and utilize at first, soon they’ll become habitual and second nature. Not only will these quick corrections change the way you feel, they will no doubt change the way you interact with people and how they perceive you.